West Side Story

About West Side Story

West Side Story, directed by Steven Spielberg, is a reimagining of the classic 1961 movie based on the Broadway musical of the same name. Like the original, it's set in the 1950s in New York City and is centered around the rivalry between two street gangs: the White 'Jets' and the Puerto Rican 'Sharks'. The plot thickens when Tony (a former Jet) and Maria (the sister of Sharks' leader) fall in love, echoing the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet.

Making / Production

The production was helmed by Steven Spielberg and Tony Kushner, who previously collaborated on movies like Munich and Lincoln. The choreography was handled by Justin Peck. The movie was filmed on location in New York, which added an authentic atmosphere to the story.

Actors

• Ansel Elgort as "Tony": Elgort delivers a heart-wrenching performance as the star-crossed lover.
• Rachel Zegler as "Maria": Zegler is a standout in the role of Maria, imbuing the character with a youthful intensity.
• David Alvarez as "Bernardo": Alvarez portrays Bernardo, Maria’s protective older brother and leader of the Sharks, with conviction.
• Ariana DeBose as "Anita": DeBose shines as Anita, Bernardo's girlfriend who gets caught in the crosshairs of the gang rivalry.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is the first musical directed by Steven Spielberg.
• Rachel Zegler was chosen from 30,000 actresses.
• The soundtrack was recorded live on set.

Awards

As of January 2022, West Side Story has been nominated for several awards including multiple Golden Globe nominations.

Quotes

• "I want to be happy here. I want to make a life, a home." - Maria
• "Every one of you hates every one of us, and we hate you right back." - Bernardo
• "Something's coming, something good, if I can wait." - Tony

Music, Soundtrack

• "Tonight" - Tony & Maria's love duet, a timeless classic.
• "America" - A spirited number performed by the Sharks and their girls.
• "I Feel Pretty" - Maria's soliloquy, embodying her youthful optimism.
• "Maria" - Tony's heartfelt song, expressing his deep affection for Maria.