Director Chris Columbus and the film's producers were determined to remain as faithful as possible to Jonathan Larson's play when they set about adapting the production for the big screen. In fact, so determined were the filmmakers to get it right and satisfy "Rent" fans, they hired most of the Broadway cast to star in the feature film. Producer Jane Rosenthal told me it was crucial the Broadway cast was involved in the production. "I think that they know the experience and they sort of know where it sprang from, particularly where it sprang from with Jonathan Larson. And that’s really important, particularly to Jonathan’s legacy," said Rosenthal.
For those who've never seen the play, in a nutshell "Rent" is the story of a group of friends struggling to get by and pay their rent while living in New York's East Village.
"Rent" Soundtrack: Song and Artist List
"Rent" Trailers: View the Trailers
"Rent Photo Gallery: Featuring Photos of Rosario Dawson, Adam Pascal, Taye Diggs, Wilson Jermaine Heredia, Jesse L. Martin, Tracie Thoms, Anthony Rapp and Idina Menzel
