[Movie review] West Side Story (2021)

West Side Story is a 2021 American musical romantic drama film directed and co-produced by Steven Spielberg from a screenplay by Tony Kushner. It is the second feature-length adaptation of the 1957 stage musical of the same name, with the first film adaptation released in 1961.

This version by Spielberg stars Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler as the leading star-crossed lovers, with Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Mike Faist, and Rita Moreno in supporting roles. Moreno, who starred in the 1961 film, also served as an executive producer, alongside Kushner. The film features music composed by Leonard Bernstein, with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

Trailer:

From this background, it is clear that the film is targeted at an older demographic who have enjoyed the long-running musical or the first film adaptation over 60 years ago. It is so much more though and will be able to resonate well with younger audiences who have not seen any previous versions of West Side Story.

With a big Hollywood name like Steven Spielberg behind the film, expect nothing but top-notch production values, meticulous attention to detail and on-tempo pacing from start till end.

The film delivers on the entertainment value, with rich colours, vibrant dance scenes that are beautifully choreographed and shot. There are some adjustments to the stage musical and first film narratives to ensure this version reflects the current social climate, cultural awareness as well as racial diversity. For instance, a new Black character is added to better represent the demographics during the time period and the original tomboy character of “Anybodys” has been swapped with a trans male.

For the younger audience who are seeing this fresh, it is still a very beautiful tale about a pair of star-crossed lovers, told with melodic songs and energetic dance scenes. You do not need to have the context of the previous West Side Story narratives in order to enjoy this remake.

With Valentine’s Day round the corner, this is a perfect date movie for couples young and old to enjoy together. You will walk out of the theatre feeling blessed and more appreciative of your other half that you live in a better time, being able to fall in love without societal judgment.

West Side Story is now showing in Singapore cinemas. I can sense Oscars nominations coming for this one.