
tick, tick... BOOM! (2021)
Film · Drama, Music
Stream itif you appreciate a high-energy, emotionally raw tribute to the relentless pursuit of creative dreams.
An energetic and emotionally resonant musical that captures the frantic pressure of artistic ambition. Andrew Garfield’s powerhouse performance anchors a film that is both a celebration of creativity and a poignant reminder of time’s scarcity.
What tick, tick... BOOM! is like, and who it is for
What it is like to watch
Watching this film feels like witnessing a ticking clock in human form. The pace is breathless, matching the internal anxiety and frantic rhythm of 1990s New York City. It balances theatrical artifice with a gritty reality, shifting between intimate piano ballads and explosive ensemble numbers. The intensity rarely lets up, driven by a kinetic directing style that mirrors the chaotic life of a struggling artist.
Who it is for, and who should skip it
This is for theatre lovers and anyone who has felt the weight of their own potential. Andrew Garfield is captivating, though his hyperactive performance might feel exhausting to those seeking a quieter drama. It avoids polished gloss, opting for a raw, sweaty sincerity. However, viewers who find musical theatre tropes grating may struggle with the film’s relentless earnestness and specific industry references.
The right evening for it
It suits a night when you want to feel inspired or have a good cry. It is perfect for introspective viewing after a long week when you are prepared for a loud, vibrant experience.
Written by our AI from the facts on this page. It has opinions; it has not watched it.
If you like this, try
All That Jazz (1979)
the same frantic, semi-autobiographical depiction of a visionary's artistic obsession
La La Land (2016)
capturing the bittersweet collision of career ambition and personal relationships
The Last Five Years (2014)
focusing on the intimate, musicalised struggles of creative professionals in New York
Suggested by our AI for what they share with this one. Linked titles have a page here; the rest are worth a search on the browse page.
What it is about
On the brink of turning 30, a promising theater composer navigates love, friendship and the pressure to create something great before time runs out.
Trailer
More clips
Teaser · Official Teaser
Clip · Sunday
Clip · Therapy
Clip · Come To Your Senses
Stills
Images from TMDB.
Questions people ask
- Is tick, tick... BOOM! a feel-good film?
- Yes. On Watchlist Boosted it is tagged Feel-Good, with a tearjerker streak. An energetic and emotionally resonant musical that captures the frantic pressure of artistic ambition. Andrew Garfield’s powerhouse performance anchors a film that is both a celebration of creativity and a poignant reminder of time’s scarcity.
- How long is tick, tick... BOOM!?
- tick, tick... BOOM! runs 120 min and was released in 2021.
- Is tick, tick... BOOM! worth watching?
- Stream it: if you appreciate a high-energy, emotionally raw tribute to the relentless pursuit of creative dreams. TMDB users rate it 7.6 out of 10 from 2,373 votes.
More feel-good titles
Same mood, saved by people here. See all feel-good titles.

American Symphony (2023)
documentary · Feel-Good · TMDB 6.5
A beautifully composed and intimate portrait of creative ambition coexisting with profound personal struggle. It is an inspiring testament to love and the power of art that will likely leave viewers moved and cleansed.

WHAM! (2023)
documentary · Feel-Good · TMDB 7.3
A vibrant and nostalgic trip through the 80s that captures the genuine bond between two best friends at the height of their fame. It is a joyful, light-hearted celebration of pop history that leaves viewers humming along.

The Greatest Night in Pop (2024)
documentary · Feel-Good · TMDB 7.9
A nostalgic and joyous celebration of musical legends coming together for a singular cause. It is warm, fast-paced, and serves as a delightful time capsule for fans of 80s pop culture.

Being Eddie (2025)
documentary · Feel-Good · TMDB 6.8
A reflective and celebratory look at a comedy icon, balancing career highlights with personal honesty. It is an inspiring, warm portrait for fans who want to see the human side of a legendary performer.

How the Beatles Changed the World (2017)
documentary · Feel-Good · TMDB 7.2
A comprehensive and celebratory overview of the band's massive cultural footprint that feels like a nostalgic journey through the 20th century. It is a lightweight, informative choice for music history buffs looking for an uplifting reminder of art's power to shift society.

Klaus (2019)
film · Feel-Good · TMDB 8.2
A visually breathtaking and heartwarming origin story that breathes new life into holiday traditions through stunning hand-drawn animation. Its high IMDb rating and Oscar nomination reflect a masterfully crafted tale that balances dry wit with genuine emotional resonance for all ages.






