Rent (2005)

In the throbbing heart of New York City's East Village, pulsating with life and a distinctive Bohemian rhythm, 'Rent' weaves a year-long narrative of friendship, love, and resilience against life's harshest realities. Set against the backdrop of 1989-1990, the film is a modern-day echo of Puccini's 'La Boheme', resonating with the trials and triumphs of a tight-knit group of friends. Our guide through this vibrant tapestry of life is Mark Cohen, a nerdy, love-struck filmmaker who attempts to distill the raw essence of existence into his cinematic creation. He is captivated by his ex-girlfriend, Maureen Johnson, a fiery spirit whose heart now belongs to Joanne Jefferson, an Ivy-league educated public interest lawyer. Mark shares his life and living space with Roger Davis, a talented musician battling HIV and past addiction. Roger finds solace and connection in Mimi Marquez, a dancer whose life is also shadowed by HIV and drug addiction. Orbiting this core are the charismatic Tom Collins, an HIV-positive computer whiz, his partner Angel, a vivacious drag queen street musician, and the antagonist Benjamin Coffin III, a former ally who has traded their bohemian ideals for a life of wealth and power. As the 525,600 minutes of the year unfurl, 'Rent' paints a compelling portrait of their collective journey through love, loss, the specter of AIDS, and the gritty reality of modern day life. This rock opera is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, underlining the poignant irony of how much can change, or remain the same, in the span of a single year. It is a powerful story that resonates with an impassioned plea for acceptance, compassion, and the ceaseless pursuit of living life to its fullest, despite its inherent challenges.

Rent is a drama movie featuring Anthony Rapp and directed by Chris Columbus.

Rent is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Hoopla.

It is also possible to buy Rent on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.