‘Hamilton’ movie could combat ‘Wicked,’ but will Disney say yes?

'Hamilton' movie could combat 'Wicked,' but will Disney say yes?

As a gamer who’s been through countless cinematic adventures and musical journeys alike, let me tell you that the anticipation for “Wicked: Part One” is off the charts! However, Disney seems to be struggling to keep pace with this magical juggernaut, after the mediocre reception of “Moana 2”. With “Mufasa: The Lion King” and “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” clashing in the same year, it’s looking like more disappointment is on the horizon for our beloved Mouse House.

It’s fair to assume that Wicked: Part One (2024) has gained quite a bit of popularity and is making waves in cinemas worldwide. This musical adaptation from Gregory Maguire’s original novel, featuring music by Stephen Schwartz, is proving to be a massive hit. However, with such immense success, one might wonder if Disney could match its appeal this year.

As a devoted Disney fan, I must admit that I’ve been experiencing mixed feelings lately. Following the rather lukewarm response to “Moana 2” (released in 2024), it seems like Disney’s run at the box office has been hit-and-miss. The upcoming releases, such as “Mufasa: The Lion King” (also in 2024), seem destined for the same fate, as they coincide with “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” (again, 2024). It’s a bit disheartening to anticipate another potentially underwhelming performance from the studio.

2025 could mark a renaissance or “phoenix rise” for Disney if they make wise creative choices with their upcoming projects. There’s already high anticipation for the next installment of The Witches of Oz, and it seems that Disney may have another hit musical in the works.

You’ll Be Back: Disney Needs Hamilton

Besides being a renowned songwriter and captivating performer on Broadway, Lin-Manuel Miranda has been Disney’s cherished artist for quite some time now. Over the past few years, he’s played significant roles in productions such as Moana (2016), the reimagining of The Little Mermaid, the Disney+ version of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, as well as the new Lion King prequel, keeping him quite busy.

Miranda’s abilities are extensively demonstrated in only these instances, but he is most famously recognized for his hip-hop musical about Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers who found a ten-dollar bill. This production, titled Hamilton, made a significant impact with its powerful lyrics and quickly gained popularity on stage. Later, it was streamed on Disney+, reaching an even wider audience. Yet, this tale may not conclude there.

In a recent conversation with Variety, Miranda expressed his ideas about adapting Hamilton in a similar way to Wicked, an approach that might already be on Disney’s agenda. Given that Disney+ has given viewers access to the Broadway production of the show, it seems fitting for the studio to complete this cycle by exploring such a project.

Miranda told Variety,

I’ve already created a fantastic rendition of the Broadway show, which I’m thrilled about and glad we can share with everyone. If anyone has an innovative idea, feel free to let me know.

Creative professionals and enthusiasts alike may dream, yearn, and anticipate a film or song adaptation with all their hearts, but it seems that decision could already rest with Disney. The real question now becomes: will Disney heed the request?

It’s not hidden that Lin-Manuel Miranda’s absence in Moana 2 was noticeable, and it might have been a significant factor contributing to some viewers’ disappointment. A compelling method to regain trust from both Miranda and Disney enthusiasts could be by bringing the stage production of Hamilton to the big screen instead.

If ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ were edible treats, we’d all have a joyful holiday season, but they aren’t. However, given that Disney hasn’t exhausted its creative potential yet and Miranda is already employed, it seems like the project might be imminent.

A filmed production of the Hamilton Broadway musical can be streamed in its entirety on Disney+.

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