Hamilton (2020): Cast, Ratings & Ending
Hamilton is a 2020 biographical musical directed by Thomas Kail, starring Anthony Ramos as John Laurens, Philip Hamilton, Phillipa Soo and Lin-Manuel Miranda. It runs 2 hours 40 minutes and was made on a reported $12.5 million budget. It earned 2 award nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes 2021. Critics gave it 98% on Rotten Tomatoes and 88 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 8.3/10.
- Released
- Runtime
- 2h 40m (160 min)
- Director
- Thomas Kail
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- Disney+
- Budget
- $12.5M
- After the credits
- Yes Extra scene during or after the credits
What Is Hamilton About?
The premise of Hamilton without spoilers. The whole story and the ending explained are in the plot summary further down.
This cinematic presentation captures the Richard Rodgers Theatre production of the acclaimed musical. It explores the ambitious life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers and the first Secretary of the Treasury. The story is told through a vibrant mix of musical styles, including hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and Broadway show tunes, offering a fresh and dynamic perspective on a pivotal moment in American history.
Hamilton Themes & Keywords
· 43 tags- alexander hamilton character
- revolutionary war
- american history
- epic
- founding fathers
- friendship
- george washington character
- thomas jefferson character
- stage musical
- costume drama
- 18th century
- 19th century
+31 more Show fewer
- aaron burr character
- king george iii character
- american revolution
- james madison character
- broadway musical
- shot to death
- husband wife relationship
- father son relationship
- singing
- dance
- hip hop music
- song
- dancing
- 1770s
- 1780s
- burning a letter
- 1790s
- epic drama
- pulitzer prize source
- violence
- death
- flashback
- murder
- one word title
- live performance
- character name as title
- actor recreates his stage role
- actress recreates her stage role
- 1800s
- based on book
- based on true story
Hamilton Cast & Characters
Anthony Ramos leads the cast as John Laurens, Philip Hamilton, with Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton and Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton. Directed by Thomas Kail; 11 actors are credited in all.
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Director Thomas Kail
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Anthony Ramos as John Laurens, Philip Hamilton -
Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton -
Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton -
Leslie Odom Jr. as Aaron Burr
Also Starring in Hamilton
· 7 more- Daveed Diggs Marquis de Lafayette, Thomas Jefferson
- Okieriete Onaodowan Hercules Mulligan, James Madison
- Jasmine Cephas Jones Peggy Schuyler, Maria Reynolds
- Jonathan Groff King George
- Chris Jackson George Washington
- Emmy Raver-Lampman
- Renee Goldsberry
More from Thomas Kail
More films directed by Thomas Kail, best-rated first: Moana, Hamilton Sing-Along and Grease Live.
Hamilton Reviews & Ratings
Critics gave Hamilton 98% on Rotten Tomatoes and 88 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 8.3/10. Our Echo Score gives it 86/100, strongest in sensory experience (90) and weakest in story & flow (80).
Hamilton Echo Score Breakdown
Overall, Hamilton presents a highly engaging filmed adaptation of the stage musical, blending historical narrative with energetic performances. Critics highlight the seamless fusion of direction, choreography, and ensemble staging, while users praise its powerful score and unexpected emotional resonance. Some note that historical nuance and pacing issues can obscure clarity at times. On balance, the production delivers a compelling and enduring musical experience.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 85
In terms of art and craft, Hamilton excels in its direction and stage-to-screen translation with dynamic camera movements and precise editing. Critics praise the choreography-driven visual composition and filmic staging, while a few note occasional lighting and camera choices that feel uneven. Overall, the production achieves an artful presentation that captures the musical’s theatrical energy.
- Character & Emotion 80
When it comes to character and emotion, Hamilton benefits from strong performances and a spirited ensemble. Reviewers commend lead and supporting actors for delivering nuanced portrayals that convey both historical gravitas and emotional intensity. Some audience members mention oversimplified characterizations of complex figures. In sum, the acting and onstage chemistry convey a compelling emotional core despite occasional depth limitations.
- Story & Flow 80
In terms of story and flow, Hamilton offers a briskly paced retelling that many find original and engaging. Supporters highlight the inventive blending of rap and historical narrative, while some viewers report that rapid transitions and condensed events can hinder comprehension. Overall, the production’s narrative momentum and inventive structure maintain audience engagement, despite occasional lapses in coherence.
- Sensory Experience 90
When considering the sensory experience, Hamilton delivers a powerful fusion of soundtrack, sound design, and visual style. Critics and users laud the dynamic score and catchy lyrics, noting how music and choreography invigorate each scene. A small number of viewers find dense rap passages challenging to follow. Ultimately, the production’s auditory and visual flair create a memorable sensory impact.
- Rewatch Factor 85
In terms of rewatch factor, Hamilton boasts strong replay value thanks to its memorable songs and dynamic production. Many users mention repeatedly listening to the soundtrack and revisiting key sequences for renewed appreciation. Some critics question whether the filmed version can capture live energy on repeat viewings. Overall, the musical’s vibrant composition and performances encourage multiple viewings.
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IMDb 8.3 /10
See on IMDb -
Rotten Tomatoes 98% Tomatometer
Popcornmeter 89%
See on Rotten Tomatoes -
Metacritic 88 Metascore
User score 7.7
See on Metacritic -
TMDB 82% User score
See on TMDB -
Letterboxd 4.2 /5
9.3K ratings
See on Letterboxd -
Movie Insider 4.0 /5
See on Movie Insider
Hamilton Plot Summary & Ending Explained
What happens in Hamilton from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 15 key events and the ending explained. The opening is below; the full summary is a 3-minute read.
Spoilers ahead
The story begins with the orphan Alexander Hamilton as he departs from his home in Nevis and arrives in New York in 1776. Here, he encounters Aaron Burr, John Laurens, Marquis de Lafayette, and Hercules Mulligan, who are captivated by his remarkable rhetorical abilities. Their aspirations for revolution are ignited through their shared determination in the song > “My Shot.” Simultaneously, the charming Schuyler sisters—Angelica, Eliza, and Peggy—embark on their quest in search of suitors. Samuel Seabury raises concerns about Congress, which Hamilton challenges with his rebuttal in > “Farmer Refuted.” The authority of King George is soon emphasized in his powerful declaration > “You’ll Be Back.”
Full summary
The whole story of Hamilton, scene by scene, with the ending explained
Hamilton Awards & Nominations
Hamilton earned 2 award nominations, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes 2021.
2 nominations1 ceremony
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Golden Globes 2021 2 nominations- Nominated Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
- Nominated Best Performance in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy (Actor) – Lin-Manuel Miranda
Hamilton Trailers & Videos
7 videos: 1 trailer, 3 teasers and 3 clips.
- Teaser Streaming Exclusively July 3
- Teaser Celebrate with Hamilton
- Teaser Hamilton Sing-Along
- Clip "Alexander Hamilton" Clip
How Well Do You Know Hamilton?
10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.
Question 1 of 10
- Question 1: not answered
- Question 2: not answered
- Question 3: not answered
- Question 4: not answered
- Question 5: not answered
- Question 6: not answered
- Question 7: not answered
- Question 8: not answered
- Question 9: not answered
- Question 10: not answered
What year does Alexander Hamilton arrive in New York City?
Hamilton Also Known As
15 alternative titles, including “Hamilton An American Musical” and “Гамильтон”.
- Also known as
-
- Hamilton An American Musical
- Гамильтон
- 해밀턴
- 汉密尔顿
- 漢密爾頓
- המילטון
- Χάμιλτον
- Гамільтон, ჰამილტონი
- ハミルトン
- هاميلتون
- Хамилтон
- Anh Hùng Hamilton
+3 more Show fewer
- Хамилтън
- Hamiltonas
- 咸美頓
Seen Hamilton?
Movies Like Hamilton
Films with a similar story, tone or audience, including Hamilton: One Shot to Broadway, Hamilton: History Has Its Eyes On You and Alexander Hamilton.
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Hamilton: One Shot to Broadway 2017 -
Hamilton: History Has Its Eyes On You 2020 -
Alexander Hamilton 1931 -
Alexander Hamilton 2007 -
The Undefeated Presents: Hamilton In-Depth 2020 -
That Hamilton Woman 1941 -
1776 1972 -
In the Heights 2021 -
Diana: The Musical 2021 -
Lady Hamilton 1921 -
Words and Music 1948 -
Rhapsody in Blue 1945
Articles About Hamilton
5 articles about Hamilton. The latest: “The Charm and Challenges of Period Films”.
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History -
GenresThe Renaissance of Musical Films in Contemporary Cinema
Explore the captivating resurgence of musical films in modern cinema, from their historical roots to their profound impact on contemporary audiences and the music industry. 8 min read -
HistoryThe Legacy of Film Musicals: From Stage to Screen
Explore the evolution and cultural impact of film musicals, from their stage origins to modern screen adaptations, on What's After the Movie (ATM) blog. 8 min read
Hamilton FAQ: Cast, Awards & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast, budget, ratings, awards and post-credit scenes of Hamilton, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Hamilton?
Hamilton runs 2 hours 40 minutes (160 minutes).
When was Hamilton released?
Hamilton was released on July 3, 2020.
Who directed Hamilton?
Hamilton was directed by Thomas Kail.
More films by Thomas Kail Who is in the cast of Hamilton?
Hamilton stars Anthony Ramos as John Laurens, Philip Hamilton, Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton and Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton, among 11 credited actors.
What was the budget of Hamilton?
Hamilton had a reported budget of $12.5 million.
How is Hamilton rated?
Hamilton has 8.3/10 on IMDb, 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, 88 on Metacritic and 82% on TMDB.
Was Hamilton nominated for any awards?
Hamilton received 2 nominations across 1 ceremony.
Does Hamilton have a post-credit scene?
Yes. Hamilton has an extra scene during or after the credits, so it is worth staying seated.
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