Dear Evan Hansen

Perhaps it's because I haven't seen the stage musical, but I don't understand why there is so much hatred toward Dear Evan Hansen. Sure, it's a little sappy, and some of the musical numbers feel a little jarring when they begin, but overall I liked this movie. I think the story is engaging and the performances (yes, even Ben Platt's) are well done. I'd like to see the musical one day. However, in the meantime, I was glad to meet Evan Hansen and learn his story.

The story is very engrossing. The psychological burden Evan has to bear is unimaginable, and this connects viewers with him. I think the story is beautiful in one way, but cruel as well.

This is not the worst movie ever made. In fact, I would argue that it is a great film with a few VERY serious flaws. Still, it made me cry.

Most of the bad reviews here seem to center around three things. 1) Evan is a bad guy, and this movie makes him a hero. (He's not, and it doesn't). 2) How could they cast a 28 year old in the title role? (Ben Platt actually looks almost young enough to BE a nervous high school senior so okay, I'll buy it). 3) What Evan did is the most horrible thing ever done, so I can't enjoy this movie. Get over it, he's a character in a musical. Movies are made about bad people and bad things all the time. Judge the film based on its merit, not on that nonsense. And the truth is, it's a mostly well done adaptation of a show which, despite the flaws of its title character, has a well-intentioned and serious societal message to send and hopefully be received. The songs are sad yet hopeful, Platt's voice is amazing, and the supporting cast does a very nice job. I read the reviews here, and they're unfairly low... this was actually a good watch with more depth than I expected.

Honestly, I don't understand the many poor reviews. I thought is was a wonderful film about a high school senior fighting desperation/anxiety and just trying not to mess up. I cried more than once just because of the performances of Ben Platt, Juliane Moore and all the other talented actors in this film.

I watched it without ever seeing the musical so I cannot comment on whether it was better or worse (I'm sure other reviewers will have their opinions ready) but I can honestly say that I enjoyed this movie and will definitely watch it again.