Dear Evan Hansen Hits The Big Screen!

By: STO Folarin Oyeleye, Foster High School, Troupe 7961; STO Maleah Minyard, John Horn High School, Troupe 6292

Wow, this is quite the year to be a musical lover. First we had In The Heights debut in cinemas earlier this June, and now it looks like it’s Dear Evan Hansen’s turn. The movie rendition of this beloved musical is set to debut on the 24th of September, so we'll make sure to give you all the necessary info to feed your excitement.

Playing the man in the title we have Ben Platt. Some of Platt’s previous roles include Elder Cunningham (on the second national tour of The Book of Mormon), and Friedrich (from The Sound of Music). Now his next venture in this movie is one of great enthusiasm. While Platt is aware of fans' worry regarding his aging since his last portrayal of the character, he does assure them by telling them to wait patiently for he has worked fervently, and is more than confident in his abilities. (And just a little fun fact, the premier date of September 24th also happens to be Platt’s birthday! So make sure to hit him up with birthday wishes and love for the movie).

Now, for our main love interest, we have Kaitlyn Dever playing as Zoe Murphy. Some of her notable works include her time on Last Man Standing (as Eve Baxter), and her role as Gwen Thompson in An American Girl. This movie will actually be quite a change for Dever as this will be her first major role in a musical related film. She has noted that although filming during the pandemic has been a bit strange, she’s excited that she gets to continue acting.

Last but not least, we have Danny Pino as Larry Murphy. Some characters on his resume include Nick Amaro from Law and Order: Special Victim Unit, and as John Bishop in Gone. The interesting thing about Pino’s role as Larry Murphy, the father of Zoe and Connor Murphy, is the change the movie has decided to make. Instead of being their biological father they are instead making him their step father. Whether or not this makes a huge impact on the story is something you can only find out by seeing the movie in theatres when it comes out

Dear Evan Hansen is a beautiful story about a boy with social anxiety who wants to make friends. This story, whether you can relate to it or not, is a worthwhile experience. The cast has nothing but love and care for this, and we’re sure that’ll be easily spotted in their performance. 

Thanks for reading,
Your 2021 Texas State Thespian Officers