Brutally Honest Review of WEST SIDE STORY (2021)

[@lene_m.r7778]

In this Movie the Rumble hurt me more than ever before. The fear in Riffs eyes, the genuine shock and horror on Bernardos face. Riffs reaction. Chinos reaction. I knew what was going to happen of course, but I still felt the shock and heartbreak so intensely.

[@pixiequeen7148]

They all looks so young and vulnerable during the rumble and it makes it so much harder to watch

[@sarahmarie3317]

Yes. Like holy shit. It felt like it killed ME lol

[@tonyyoung3985]

And keep in mind, guns weren't common place and accessible to children in that era. So the fear and apprehension it created was real.

[@mackdavy9281]

Me too!!! 😭😭😭

[@levelup9547]

Same. Good to know I wasn't the only one

[@BrianE469]

Absolutely adored this remake. One stand out moment for me was the scene at Doc's when Anita comes to give a message to Tony, and even though Graziella has no love for Anita, she attempts to intervene on her behalf when it becomes obvious that Anita is in danger of being sexually assaulted by the Jets. It was heart wrenching. Another moment is the very end when Valentina walks Chino (and also picks up the gun) to the approaching police car.

[@MrHobbywatcher]

That part broke me! Her banging on the door and screaming “Don’t hurt her!” Oof!

[@ojaymami]

That part made my chest hurt ! Women are still women and I'm glad this version of Graziella reacted instead of ignoring Anita.

[@גלעדסוירזנסקי]

Yes! I loved how they tried to help her even though they hated her. It shows they at leat have respect and care for her as a woman

[@otterzrkuhl]

I loved that part. I appreciated that while Graziellas doesn’t like Anita and wants Anita gone, she still understands what it’s like to be a woman in a room full of angry and violent men.

[@yasmin4281]

it was the only part of the movie that made me cry 😭

[@Dancing4Life24]

I still cannot stop thinking about a boy like that/I have a love. Rachel’s high notes, Ariana’s acting, it’s a MASTERPIECE and Rachel said in an interview it was by far the most challenging scene of the film for them to film, especially since they sang that one live

[@GD-ec2xu]

I am glad to hear you point out that they did this one live. I was wondering about that. It seemed like it was live while I was watching it. Vocally, it was so impressive.

[@squilliamfancy]

no same that scene has yet to leave my mind they were so good together

[@officialnano]

YES!!!

[@annabellevy3388]

It was amazing. I have listened to it over and over.

[@aserr5660]

I got goosebumps reading your comment. So true! Incredible from the two

[@holyhabadasheree]

If anyone was ever on the fence about seeing this in theaters, it’s worth the price of admission JUST for America. Rachel met and exceeded all expectation for Maria, IMAGINE this being your film debut? A leading role in a Spielberg directed musical and she looks like she’s done this for years, the confidence she has in front of the camera! Ariana and Mike were such highlights and if they got any recognition at any awards show, manifesting. With regards to A.E., I had heard one review beforehand that he was great in this movie and I walked out feeling really underwhelmed by the performance. I thought it was just my ~other~ feelings about him influencing my opinion but no, he was actually underwhelming and I feel vindicated.

[@johnpjones182]

It can't be that hard a role to cast, but he's as lame as Richard Beymer.

[@raindropsonroses3919]

No . Angel was objectively the worst in all three areas (acting/dancing/singing) doesn’t mean he doesn’t have talent. It just means the standard was too high. Plus I don’t think he’s attractive enough physically to be a Tony. I find it hard to believe that Rachel Ziegler would be so obsessed with him that she’d forgive him 😂

[@jackienaiditch7965]

@@johnpjones182 Totally.

[@hzjohnson1632]

@@johnpjones182 I found his emotion and voice quite impressive for seeing him in previous roles

[@bman342a]

I actually liked Richard Beymer in the original, though of course he didn't sing. Tony has to be very good-looking -- the type of looks that Rachel has for Maria. The type of looks that would make you stop and stare -- because that is exactly what happens in the gymnasium scene. Ansel doesn't have those looks. And he needs to be athletic and strong -- he's been doing the stock boy thing for a while, and did a stretch which is where dudes usually muscle-up. And he climbs up the balcony, excuse me, fire escape -- it's both a show of determination and muscle. Even Ansel's demeanor and stride lack confidence, strength, and purpose. I think he was the weakest of the cast.

[@wiIIium]

Gee Officer Krupke was also a highlight for me, they were so theatrical during that song and just played off of each other so well

[@annabellevy3388]

I think everyone needs to remember that Ansel Elgort was cast before the allegations against him were revealed. In fact, the movie was very far into filming when that happened, and it was too late to replace him. I am not saying I don't believe the allegations, because I do. But I am not going to judge the film or even the performance on a casting decision that was made in good faith and that actually made sense. He can sing, he can dance, he can act too. Please don't drag a whole, beautiful movie down because of him.

[@otterzrkuhl]

Wasn’t he accused in like, 2017?

[@marlonmoncrieffe0728]

🙌 Go Annabel Levy!

[@fabiesque]

Because of him?!?! Because of the whiney girl who waited for this guy to become famous and wealthy to claim the "assault"!!!!

[@otterzrkuhl]

@@fabiesque we don’t victim blame here. Take that toxic behavior elsewhere.

[@Ella_G_127]

@@fabiesque that’s an extremely toxic mentality, you should always believe the victims.

[@dchang11]

Rita Moreno’s presence reminded me of Gloria Stuart in Titanic. She’s technically the ‘old Anita’. You feel that in the film. Having her sing ‘Somewhere’ acknowledges the 1961 version, as if history repeated itself in 2021. West Side Story is part of her legacy, and the new movie gives her the proper send-off moment. Ansel Elgort is one lucky actor. He got to dance with Rita Moreno on screen.

[@SopranoBriarRose]

I love this comment. Such a unique and true way of looking at/thinking about it. Truly loved this film and the original will always have a special place in my heart.

[@manuelorozco7760]

I loved her version of it

[@tonyyoung3985]

Did you catch how they "fixed" Maria, by having two other "Marias" show up when Tony starts calling out for her in song? I thought that was a clever touch, and a nice callback to all the jokes made about that scene.

[@chalkeev]

that wasn't a fix to me. It turned the most beautiful song number into a comedy bit.

[@allendever949]

@@chalkeev I got no comedy aspects to this scene. it was beautiful all around.

[@dasren]

@@chalkeev it can be beautiful and funny at the same time..

[@kallen868]

The little girl in that scene posted her few seconds. Sweet.

[@manuelorozco7760]

I didn’t find it funny but a surprise touch

[@rhyshaskin6449]

I loved that Valentina(Rita Moreno) came to save Anita from the Jets. It was just the PERFECT MOMENT and it felt so good to see that.

[@julieclancy732]

100% agree with everything you said. Really loved Mike Faist’s Riff - specially at The Rumble it was very Mercutio like. Sometimes thought I was watching Newsies at times …

[@raquelanastasia]

My sister kept on saying that it gave her Grease vibes (she isn't as much of a musical fan as I am so she hasn't seen Newsies), when I was in the cinema, but I was literally thinking that it gave off more Newsies vibes than Grease. I would have told her but we were in the cinema. However, I am glad that someone agrees and that I am not the only person who thought about Newsies.

[@manuelorozco7760]

@@raquelanastasia I thought about Newsies too a little. Especially one of the Jets looked like Romeo.

[@missemify]

So well spoken, Kat! You completely nailed the parts that I enjoyed especially with the nuanced and complex themes that Spielberg highlighted as well as the parts of Mike Faist's performance that were BRILLIANT!

[@dangosandlemons]

AE was alright in the role, he is a terrible person, and I do not condone his actions. But that being said, his voice did *not* bring the movie down. He’s a good actor and a good singer. Believe it or not, I do prefer his Tony over the original’s. Controversial, I know. And YESS Ariana and Rachel dod make this movie. They were stellar in the role and I want to see more of them in musical movies. Especially Rachel!! The cast overall was amazing! This movie is everything a movie musical should be. Take notes, Tom Hooper.

[@kelleyceccato7025]

The screenplay gave Tony more depth. I hope Kushner will get some love from Oscar.

[@sophieamandaleitontoomey9343]

I just still can’t behind him being in the Cool number though.

[@FlyingFocs]

To be fair, I think even the original actor thought his Tony wasn't that great, citing he didn't think he felt enough like an ex-gang member. Which this movie fixed in SPADES

[@heatherjamieson4295]

DangosAndLemons - I can only assume you know Ansel Elgort personally and have inside information on “his actions.” No? Then why judge? Our State lost a brilliant Senator over allegations which later turned out to be bogus. The man’s life and career took a terrible hit because people were so willing to buy into the scandal.

[@dmeyer6779]

This movie was phenomenal. My only problem was the ending. I feel like Tony's death scene could've been longer but I suppose that makes it more realistic after getting shot in the chest. Speaking of Tony, I think Elgort did great! I don't really understand the hate for him in this role. Yes, he was definitely outshined by the rest of the cast's talent, but his singing was much better than I was expecting and he was amazing during those emotional scenes! Saw it a few hours ago and already want to see it again!

[@musical_merri]

For sure!

[@dmeyer6779]

@confusedqueer oh no i hate him as a person! I definitely meant his portrayal of Tony! :D

[@otterzrkuhl]

For real tho, I thought the ending felt super rushed. They cut out like half of Maria’s speech!

[@musical_merri]

@@otterzrkuhl I can agree with that! Low key wish they could reshoot from the point where Valentina tells Tony “Marìa was shot” to the end.

[@llllllllll9495]

I just couldn’t get past the fact that unlike the original tony who was very handsome, Ansel Elgort just looks like a little girl in comparison.

[@thememeslinger7506]

Ok here's the 10 best parts of the film to me (no preference, cuz they're all great) 1. Ariana Debose n Rachel Ziegler 2. Rita Moreno 3. THE WHOLE ASS AMERICA NUMBER 4. Oh lawdie David Alvarez 5. Mike Faist 6. Sweet merciful crap the cinematography 7. Choreography 8. Anybodys (can't remember the actors name but holy hell they were wonderful) 9. An unexpected Brian D'arcy James (had no idea he'd be in this 10. ThE sCoRe As for Tony I'd either recast him with the guy from one of the recent productions or Colton Ryan

[@fashionablechangeling2003]

iris menas played Anybodys (zie prefers lowercase spelling)

[@Noahmeline135]

I think ansel did great.

[@gabrielleduplessis7388]

I don’t know but I was thinking riker lynch or milo Mannheim (sorry if it is misspelled) they both proved they have acting range and singing chops and they both are incredible dancers as proven by DWTS. Maybe they are not broadway potential yet, but film is a different medium which I think they would be right for.

[@eldiran2]

@@Noahmeline135 He was good, and far better than the Tony in the first film.But in our present 'Cancel Culture' (America often over-compensates on social issues), people are mixing up the public opinion on him with his performance.

[@sailorjaviera]

YES TO COLTON RYAN. I'm so agreed.

[@Pichipichiprincess]

Totally agree on tony kushner’s script! The scene with tony and riff where tony confesses that he’s afraid of himself and the violence he’s capable of perfectly sets up killing Bernardo later on

[@JenniferBrigitteOpticalVortex]

Tony is amazing. I just think he did such a beautiful job

[@Junoisverysleepy]

Agree but disagree, it is the perfect set up, but AE's performance makes it sound like some dorky high school kid trying to sound tough.

[@manuelorozco7760]

The script was one of few elements that justified this versions existence

[@finsfables]

Rachel Zegler to me was perfect as Maria like woww. the only thing i didn’t like was just Ansel Elgort honestly….scenes between him and Rachel felt so uncomfortable to me just because of the fact of the allegations and then she was also so young at the time of filming? like that kinda made me uncomfortable to see. but setting aside him i think the movie was gorgeous

[@wwozanewmusical]

you do know that Romeio and Juliet were 14 and 16 didn't you? the age gap is worsted since this is based on that story.

[@im7680]

@@wwozanewmusical think you're kind of missing the commenter's point. Ansel Elgort has been accused of s*xually assaulting an underage girl, hence the justified discomfort with him acting opposite Rachel here (and being in the film at all). It's not an issue solely with the age gap.

[@otterzrkuhl]

@@wwozanewmusical first of all, Juliet was 13. Second, that doesn’t make it ok?

[@manuelorozco7760]

I was able to forget about it and try to enjoy Ansel a little bit

[@hi_there1239]

does anyobdy else want kat's ENTIRE wardrobe? i'm truly obsessed with the cardigan she's wearing in this!!!

[@ariellakahan-harth8831]

1. I saw the movie this last Monday, and Mike Faist's performance absolutely floored me. I've never seen a Riff who was this... for lack of a better term, Mercutio. Of course, Riff is Mercutio's equivalent in the R&J/WSS character comparison, but Faist's performance, with all of his charisma and rage and the sadness boiling underneath, made me think of of other actors I've seen play Mercutio (specifically, Harold Perrineau in ROMEO + JULIET and Hale Appleman in PRIVATE ROMEO). Mercutio often has this sense of being a ticking time bomb about him, a sense of embracing doom, of knowing that he's going to die soon. Faist gave that to Riff, and it added so much to the character. For the first time, I looked at Riff and thought, "Yep, that there's a gang leader." 2. Rachel Zegler's Maria also floored me. She imbues Maria with this radiance, this inner light and strength that just spills forth every single second she's onscreen, and her eyes are so beautifully expressive. I completely understood why Tony would fall for her at first sight, even if I didn't quite buy their romance (I honestly never have; it's a me problem). And her voice is so lovely; it's very pure and sweet, a voice type I feel doesn't get featured too often in modern musicals anymore. I hope she goes on to have an excellent career which is as long as she wishes it to be. 3. "Cool" had me screaming inside my head in the theater. The choice to stage it on a rotting pier, where they're dancing and almost tripping across single planks of wood -- on the one hand, there's something almost playful about it, and on the other, they could plunge into the water below at any second -- gave the whole number that perfect sense of tension that I feel is missing in the stage version. I still prefer the original film's version and how it was shifted in the narrative, but this was a more than worthy successor.

[@AStageForTheKingdom]

The problem with the romance is very real. Not just you. Their relationship is painfully paper thin. No depth or development whatsoever in any of the character relationships (other than Tony and Riff in this version.) Maria and Tony, Anita and Bernardo, and even Anita and Maria, all need WAY more depth and development.

[@seapumpkin]

@@AStageForTheKingdom They didn't get it in the source material either, Romeo and Juliet. Two teenagers fall in love literally overnight. And as teenagers do, proceed to generate a lot of melodrama against a background of generational hatred.

[@emilia7669]

I really REALLY loved it!!😍 Rachel, Ariana and Mike were all incredible! I also (unpopular opinion) loved Ansel as Tony. And the choreography was outstanding!!!😍

[@filmfangirls9163]

I've been so excited to hear your thoughts on it! I loved it. Mike Faist and Ariana Debose stole the show!!

[@jasonm.8174]

Im so glad someone brought up the "all fun and games" aspect of things. As much as I straight up adore the OG West Side Story, it doesnt play as much as a tragedy (which this story is) so much as "oh you scamps!"

[@ajitter89]

I was initially really apprehensive about the new WSS, because I'm probably not alone in thinking the '61 adaptation is legitimately one of the greatest films ever made, let alone one of my top 10 favorite movies, but yeah I can honestly say, I loved Spielberg's interpretation, and I believe it is just as good as Robert Wise/Jerome Robbins Masterpiece.

[@AlexMR]

I enjoyed WSS music and story but I've never been able to go back to the original the voices were not great back then I'm talking of one performance in particular I can't remember but I also couldn't get over how sweaty everyone looked it bothered me so much yes I get it's a dumb thing but I'm glad the new one is here cause I legit couldn't get behind the oily skin

[@jenniferwise8515]

Robert Wise.....

[@Awardshq]

Minus the brown face and dubbed singing

[@jenniferwise8515]

@@Awardshq go research the Hayes Code from the 1930s to.understand why Hollywood could not.portray interracial relationships then. Beymer and Wood were both white but Wood was brown faced up to appear PR.

[@Awardshq]

@@jenniferwise8515 she wasn't the only one. The entire "PR" cast was put in brown face.

[@sadlystuckinreality]

I'm just so happy to see Mike getting more recognition, I absolutely adore him.

[@DPlaz6460]

I saw West Side Story and I thought it was amazing. It was layed out well and different from the 1961 film. I personally liked Ansel Elgort as Tony. I thought he made Tony a lot more interesting than in the original film. I never thought of Ariana DeBose playing Anita but now I can't get it out of my head. She was what stole the movie for me. I've been a fan of Mike Faist since listening to Dear Evan Hansen. (I've never seen it though). I thought he was incredible as Riff. I've never really cared much for Tony or Maria in the 1916 film but Spielberg's film expanded their personalities more. "America" was so amazing. I really liked Officer Krupke for some reason. It's either the fact that he was much nicer than in the original or that I'm just a fan of Brian D'Arcy James. I enjoyed Rita Moreno as Doc's wife. The way she played that character was phenomenal. I also loved the fact that she sang "Somewhere". This movie overall made me enjoy West Side Story more than I ever did before.

[@kateh5446]

as a long time member of the theatre thursday fam, i can confirm there IS a lot of group snapping involved

[@felixettos]

The thing I loved most that Tony aside this movie has the perfect cast and for the first time in my life I was watching a musical movie and I felt like this is for me, as in a theatre nerd. None of the actors were super famous outside of broadway (which is probably why in a country where musical theatre just doesn't have a culture there were like 6 people in the cinema when I was watching it) but *I* know these actors and I love these actors, I've known Ariana since Hamilton (+I loved her as Alyssa in The Prom) I've known Mike since Dear Evan Hansen and Newsies, speaking of which LITERALLY HALF OF THE NEWSIES WERE IN THIS?? and I've also known Brian D'Arcy James since Something rotten (I didn't even know he was going to be in this movie) I also just loved the whole atmosphere of it if that makes sense? Similar to what you said I absolutely loved how they balanced out the cheerfulness and hopefulness of these characters (as they're quite literally pretty much children) with the seriousness of the situation and the underlying themes of xenophobia, colourism, toxic masculinity and all those. As a different note, one thing that personally to me meant a lot is that Anybodys was played by a trans actor. As a trans guy this is quite literally the first time I saw someone like me onscreen so it was an important moment to me personally. Anyways my overall opinion is great movie, cast Ariana DeBose in everything from now on pls

[@marlonmoncrieffe0728]

📺 You haven't seen 'The Fosters' or the short-lived 'Dirty, Sexy Money' or the new '4400' which features transgender actors and characters?

[@felixettos]

@@marlonmoncrieffe0728 no I haven't, but I might check them out thanks!

[@cheese6291]

It was so hard to concentrate on what was happening when all my brain wanted to do was stare at the people who were in newsies

[@seattledude6277]

Ansel Elgort performance (disregarding allegations) is the worst casting in all of movie history! It is the most famous love story of all time and there was zero chemistry ? An entire movie perfectly cast and The tony is a dud? All other actors are new stars! world class- I DONT know most of them and believe they all have shining new careerss! EXCEPT Ansels? How could this happen? He has ruined the film- How did Spielberg not recast this?-Ansels stiff and non believable delivery is a conundrum! It feel like its the worse performance in a big budget movie ever put on film? Like he wasnt even trying? Couldnt have Spielberg said "WAKE UP" ,and or gave him a cup of coffee? NO because he was cast wrong?is Ansel actually talented and it was bad directing? The rest of the cast has world class talent! ANSEL- OMFG! ! When Tony meets Maria behind the bleechers, it is insipid, flat, and scary how bad it is? Never one moment in every scene they did together, NOT ONCE, not once have chemistry! How can anyone like this movie because he is so terrible! I agree the reworking and new screen play is wow! I feel, minus the main charecters terrbile acting ,it will win awards for best screen paly and accolades for so much..... BUT WTF ANSEL? EVERY other actor is perfectly cast and super wonderful! WHY WHY did they leave this Tony terrrible acting in this lush adaptation? Its the only movie ive ever watched in my LIFE, where it feel like beginner acting by main character? I cannot remember a movie in my life where this happened? I saw this on the big screen and now been trying to re watch it streaming? I am shocked how bad he is! There is no depth , he doesnt seem passionate about Maria or anything? He's not sexy! As we KNOW, sex appeal is more important than good looks- This guy has ZERO sex appeal- The most un sexy human ever cast in a movie? I googled questions about his delivery. to see what others were saying??? I found hundreds of articles and forums with people saying things like "The actor that played Tony was so bad that "He should never be cast in a movie ever again" or "The movie was ruined by his flimsy/stiff delivery"- Im so pissed this movie has him in it! I AGREE the new twists and trans and womens and civil rights improvements , bringing this to a modern society, is spot on brilliant ! Riff and Maria and all the actors are top notch! HOW COULD THIS HAVE HAPPENED-What classic or modern movie had you not believe the acting of main character? Why is everyone disregarding how bad he is? It ruins the moive? Can they do a re edit and cast a new person with digital or something? Trust me there is a movie and theater community that is just as upset as me!! Google it? How can any of us watch this movie with Ansel, in almost most scenes, ruining it with his acting! Acting 101 boring -Zero passion scenes? Dang it! The reason this had bad turn out was only becasue of this guys acting! I personally cannot watch it without his performance making entire film a no! Spielberg has cast many beginners and pulled out great performances? How could he have stayed with this guy?- Ansel is seemingly good looking. but as we know "either you got it or you aint" and home girl is a graduate of "Dud high school!" With honors!

[@strwbrrymentos2225]

i started crying at the rumble bc of riff's eyes and i was like oh noo but he was so scared and then bernardo and i knew what was coming i've seen the musical but ohmygoodness it was just like aaa noooo AND THEN RACHEL'S PERFORMANCE OH MY WORD !!!! i didn't stop crying after the rumble :( i loved this remake of west side story.

[@zenagitana]

I love the original WSS, but I never felt the urge to cry. And I cry for anything! But I was sobbing by the end of this film. I felt for these characters because I grew too know them.

[@LexineCalderon]

i’m a HUGE rachel zegler fan and it devastates me that i can’t see it in my country i live in the middle east where wss is banned mainly because of anybodys so i’m patiently waiting for it to start streaming

[@diegocastaneda2655]

That's terrible!

[@zacharywilliams7639]

As a somewhat lukewarm musical movie person, I mainly decided to see this film to kind of stick it to another certain blockbuster coming later this month, and I ended up doing a lot more research on it than I thought I would (seeing the 1961 film, buying a recording, reading up on the history) ...and along the way, I started to genuinely get drawn into the story and the music. I think this is one of Spielberg's best films, and perhaps one of the best filmed musicals out there! My favorite aspect was the fact that he used portions of the dances and songs as way to move they story and characters forward (for example, The Mambo Scene with Chino getting the courage to dance and enjoy himself, setting up sympathy that carries throughout the movie), instead of just making them dance breaks (though, those are great, too.) I'm still thinking about the ending of "Cool" to this day, (I saw it last Saturday) and "A Boy Like That/I Have A Love" kind of broke me. Rachel, Ariana and Rita are the acting MVPS!

[@MsMockingjay07]

I’m gonna channel some Riff energy here by saying I was captivated by Ansel’s performance. There was sincerity that made me believe his love for Maria was genuine, I wept with him when Valentina had to relay Anita’s message. ‘Maria’ is the song I keep coming back to on the soundtrack, I can hear Tony falling deeper in love with every mention of Maria’s name. He and Rachel made me more invested in the relationship than I’ve ever been for a movie couple, and I was inconsolable by the finale. I felt as if I had lost my own great love in that moment. I’m a survivor of sexual assault. Obviously this puts my affection for Ansel as an actor in a complicated situation. But he contributed to a wonderful piece of art here, I choose to separate the artist from the art. There is not a single thing about this movie that I would have changed.

[@annaoffive]

I absolutely loved the new WSS! I didn’t mind the changes and absolutely loved the casting! Wish I could see it many more times!

[@lanieguerrero7136]

i’d like to give a shout it to Gee, Officer Krupke i absolutely loved that number

[@emmamarie3766]

The new West Side Story movie was my first exposure to the musical, and I can say that watching it in theaters was honestly an amazing experience! It makes me happy to know that this seemingly “timeless” story can be introduced to another generation.

[@soniachapple3141]

Please watch the original movie … the dancing is phenomenal

[@ethanjohnson2849]

Go see the original and if you're ever in New York see it on stage. It's an experience.

[@manuelorozco7760]

@@soniachapple3141 That was my first exposure to WSS

[@GD-ec2xu]

I agree with you on the gun misfiring during Cool. In fact, I kept waiting for that to happen. Especially since they pointed out previously that the gun did not need to be cocked in order to fire.

[@LovelyChocolateChick]

I really liked the layers they added to Chino and how his loss of innocence was also affected. I think besides Anita, he was my favorite character when I have not given a thought to him at all in other productions. Also with the allegations with Elgort, having a Maria so much younger than him (Rachel was 17 when cast, he was 24) and of course the Jet and Anita scene in the bar, it was almost grossly ironic and I wish they had cast someone else and closer to Rachels age to show just how young they both were.

[@kcalan5700]

Can I just say that the homage to Romeo and Juliet made by the costuming LITERALLY gave me chills. Just the way that the sides at the dance are blue and red, divided households, Montague vs Capulet absolutely floored me. And (spoiler) when Maria runs to Tony at the end in a blue dress it made my eyes flood right then and there. Stellar movie for everyone, not just musical theatre people.

[@Hannah-jj3ik]

I loved this 2021 West Side Story! I felt like the tragic elements of the original story were brought out a lot more and the impact of the events were felt more in each character's own arc. I mean, just with Riff and Chino, for example, I felt like I got a lot more understanding into their characters, including into the relationship dynamics between Tony and Riff vs. Bernardo and Chino. I felt like I was able to see and understand a lot more than just Tony and Maria, because this isn't just their story anymore.

[@aveafterdarkk]

i literally can not stop thinking about the opening crane shot and the prologue, absolutely stunning

[@paulnagle7017]

West Side Story is stunning on so many levels. Everything you have heard about Maria (the voice, the acting, the closeups) and Anita (the acting and the dancing!) is true and then some. Tony's acting was fine and sometimes very good. (and his close ups, especially with Maria harken back to old Hollywood glamour perfection) He has a sweet voice, but it doesn't reach the soaring crescendos for Maria or Something's Coming. That was my only disappointment with the movie and otherwise everything is glorious. Riff and Bernardo both spectacular. And Rita Moreno is the soul of the movie. I liked the script better than the original - it made so much more sense to me. And kudos to Kushner - who convinced me to empathize with the Puerto Ricans and understand their plight without a sledgehammer woke moment. I actually liked the choreography better than the original. It nods to Robbins, but I never found myself snarkily thinking, "Oh yeah these Broadway ballet gypsies are tough street guys!" Expecially the choreographed fight scenes. There's a moment with a paint bucket that made me gasp out loud. In truth, the movie is so filled with phenomenal lighting and exquisite shots that it's hard to isolate particular moments in the constant cascade of cinematic brilliance. Which brings us to Speilberg. I predict West Side Story will become the best loved of his movies. It's so smart, so inventive, so perfect and a huge risk. Do stick around for the end credits.

[@manuelorozco7760]

I agree on everything you said except the dancing. I love the original Robbins choreography but the new dancing is close enough

[@doc2log]

Why does everything have to be a contest? 1961 was great but the new generation could not "get in touch" with it so this is THIS generation's West Side Story and this 63 year old senior citizen gets it..and I love THIS WSS just as much as the 1961 one.

[@SaraSachsMediumonthego]

Very good review. I agree completely. Don't forget the cinematography. The scene of the gangs meeting for the rumble with the overhead shot with the long shadows was also worth the price of admission.

[@skck2009]

I saw it 3 days ago and I can't stop thinking about it and I'm dying to see it again. I grew up watching and listening to the original movie and this new version lived up to all of my expectations.

[@madam2077]

I actually been killing myself since I saw the film because I liked Ansel’s performance as Tony so much. Like I literally called a friend and cried over the phone because of it 😩. I blame Tony Kushner’s amazing script because of it.

[@filmfangirls9163]

I liked his performance too lol

[@musical_merri]

He gave a fine performance! I’m so tired of seeing comments of people says “he brought the entire movie down”. He gave Tony so much more depth and urgency than the original. Do I support AE personal life? No. But I give credit when credit is due. I loved the entire move, and you can see the entire cast gave it their 110%.

[@eldiran2]

@@musical_merri You are right. People brought too much socially-ordained baggage with them in regards to Ansel. He was far better than the Tony in the first film (which was one of that films many flaws.)

[@musical_merri]

@@eldiran2 for sure!

[@belle-ashton2167]

Look. I wasn't thrilled the first time watching, as I couldn't help comparing the dance sequences. But the second time? I was completely blown away. Such a clever and fascinating adaptation. An artistic triumph.

[@AlanNJUSA]

Yes! It’s definitely a movie that has to be seen many times to fully appreciate every aspect of it. I saw it twice on IMAX. I appreciated it better the second time. I am looking forward to the Blu-ray.

[@manuelorozco7760]

@@AlanNJUSA I wish I saw it in IMAX

[@fredjensen1683]

Maria and Tony in the new film did not look like they even liked each other and they were supposed to be madly in love.

[@agctwillis8138]

Being a Fansie, I loved Ben Cook in the role of Mouthpiece. I also loved how the Jets reacted to Baby John, the way he got tired of them protecting him in Gee Officer Krumpke was amazing. I also loved the power behind A Boy Like That/ I have a Love, I would have liked Kath to touch on it a bit, but the fact that Rachel Z. and Arriana D. were crying AND singing was amazing and brought so much more feeling and understanding. I also loved the scrip, it had all the notable lines from the old movie plus new ones to quote. My favorite, I believe, is in the rumble after Riff gets stabbed. The emotion on his face plus the line “It’s ok, just pull it out.” made me cry multiple times. Riff knew his best friend didn’t want to hurt him more, but he knew it was too late for that.

[@FairyFlips]

I enjoyed it and I’m going to see it for the second time next weekend, I’m just sad it had such a poor box office turnout, mainly for all of the Broadway talent in the ensemble who had so much love for being in this film. It really had the potential to be such a springboard for bringing real Broadway actors into movie musical adaptations instead of star power names for casting and I hope that once the oscars come around and they hopefully rerelease it in theaters for a “for your consideration” campaign that it makes it up then, because the reviews are stellar across the board but it’s going to be completely annihilated in the box office this weekend by spider man, which really sucks (Also, agree on all of the Tony stuff with ansel elgort, he is definitely the worst part of this movie but I can see why it isn’t as simple as just recasting since when the allegations came out they had already long wrapped filming and you can’t just reshoot an entire Spielberg-budget-level film with a new lead. That doesn’t make what he did okay or erase the hurt he caused, I just hope it can result in a change from here on out with future projects considering hiring him.)

[@carr0760]

Honestly, the box office turnout probably wasn't great because we're in the middle of another massive surge in COVID. Going to the movies isn't necessary or smart in a lot of places right now. I was going to go yesterday for my birthday, but then they announced a bunch of new restrictions starting today where I live, and I thought, it's no more safe at 9pm Saturday than it is at midnight Sunday, so I'll have to take a pass.

[@FairyFlips]

Karina Carr Yeah that’s definitely true too, I’ve been lucky where the times I went to see it the theater was pretty empty so social distancing and wearing masks was easy but I understand why people wouldn’t feel comfortable in a theater type situation. We are still in a pandemic unfortunately

[@raquelanastasia]

@@FairyFlips I was pretty lucky too that most of the cinema was empty. I went to see the film on Christmas Eve so I guess that most people were busy with festivities, such as spending time with family.

[@sharontzu5]

I'm 67 and still afraid to go into a movie theatre with Covid. But I'm hoping to buy the DVD as soon as it's available.

[@edreid7872]

I wasn't happy with Maria's decision to not only forgive Tony, but sleep with him within minutes in the movie.. There should've been a bit more time in between those incidents...

[@katietraynor5843]

That's what happens in Romeo and Juliet...

[@midnight_rose2337]

@@katietraynor5843 Doesn’t mean OP has to like it.

[@manuelorozco7760]

I agree about having more time

[@jonathanrio6587]

LOVED the more in depth back stories of the characters.

[@wesperloves]

IT WAS SO GOOD IMO!!! MAYBE IM JUST A NEWSIES FAN BUT I SCREAMED EVERY TIME I SAW A NEWSIE IM SO HAPPY MIKE GOT ATTENTION FINALLY

[@thehopeofeden597]

I think it not only enhances but far surpasses the original in some ways. There’s the obvious which is, having Latino actors and not just a bunch of white men and brown face, but also everything from the performances to the slight lyrical changes to the cinematography just adds and adds to the story and I’ve definitely cried.

[@iluvlafferty]

I'm sorry, but you can't be serious claiming that Maddie Ziegler deserved a solo dance just because of Dance Moms?? She's not a child star anymore, so people need to stop associating her with that show. The lead Jet girl in West Side Story is Riff's girlfriend Graziella, played by Paloma Garcia-Lee. Maddie plays her best friend.

[@soniachapple3141]

I actually thought she was awful in this … her dancing was nowhere near as good as the other dancers 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@dmeyer6779]

It was just a joke. Of course she didn't deserve a solo! It was just a funny callback to Dance Moms

[@kaylimann]

Yes, yes it was THAT good.

[@katybeard]

The rumble was literally iconic! There was an audible gasp when Riff was stabbed. Also BEN COOK!!!

[@lilbuffy0127]

I LOVED this movie. However, there were things I did not like. I think this version was less dance heavy then the original. There were dance movies that scream wss to me, that I was expecting and did not get. Anybodys- this is my favorite character in the story. I am a little biased because I’ve been in 3 community theatre productions of this show and I am always anybodys. While I thought the actor was great, I thought it was too progressive for the time. If the movie was updated and set in 2021 then yes, perfect but it was still the 50s. Also, it changed all of my favorite anybodys lines. A favorite for me- besides the leads, cause Rachel and Ariana are brilliant. Possible my favorite Maria and Anita ever. I also loved Somewhere. That song never hits the mark for me. I loved the added story line/ character of Valentina and having her sing somewhere was such a strong choice for me. Although, would the jets really go to her shop after the rumble?

[@eldiran2]

I agree on Anybodys, but it was a ridiculous attempt to give a Woke Mentality in a time that did not have it. So as The New York Times review points out, all the PC attempt to 'explain' everybody ruins some of story.

[@mhawang8204]

The jets were there for Tony. Without Riff, he was the leader they looked up to.

[@jackienaiditch7965]

"I think this version was less dance heavy than the original." I'm very happy to read any comment about the dancing. Because a discussion of the dancing is lacking in every review I've seen. Which is strange for such a dance-centric musical. I did prefer Jerome Robbins's choreography and the dancing in the original.

[@lilbuffy0127]

@@jackienaiditch7965 I think America was great but it stopped there. We didn’t get to see too much of the dancing at the gym because of the cinematography ( which was beautiful, but took away from the dance). The opening number, again cinematography was stunning but dance was severely lacking. To me the signature West side story dance moves is the jump with the leg to the side and one arm up and that never happened in this production.

[@jackienaiditch7965]

@@lilbuffy0127 For me, in the new version, the dance at the gym was the worst scene because of the camera movement and angles. But, apparently, Spielberg and Peck were high-fiving each other because they loved the way that scene turned out. I also thought the original had more balletic movements, the dancing was more graceful, and the dancers were more in sync with each other.

[@d43imoet]

Loveee this movie so much! The entire cast is phenomenal, the score, the background stories for the characters, the cinematography, ZEGLER AND DEBOSE, everything is just **chef’s kiss** I left he cinema feeling sooo happy like I just finished watching a LIVE stage production! The energy this movie gives us is electrifying 😭😭❤️❤️ I was smitten for many days after watching it, I still do one week later today!!

[@Lety-Ferreira]

Honestly, in regards ro A.E., I was waiting for a shit show, I did not particularly enjoy his performance but he's not a bad singer, all I can say about his role is "it was ok", not bad but not good either. I never liked Tony as a character so it didn't make much difference to me. About the rest of the cast: they were all PHENOMENAL and if Rachel or Ariana don't win any awards imma riot cause they deserve anything and everything. The highlights for me were Tony and Maria meeting for the first time, it just sounded so genuine and human, like it could happen to any of us, it was not forced like many productions, it was really sweet. Also when Anita goes to find Tony and is abused by the Jets, it was so heartbreaking especially her exchange with Valentina...this movie is an absolute masterpiece

[@kennedi.m]

I absolutely loved the movie - it did everything so, so much justice. The acting, the singing, the dancing. There was a tension that you should feel throughout. And so many Performances with a capital P - ESP Ariana, Mike and David. The shots were absolutely BEAUTIFUL. The orchestra - EXQUISITE. This version of WSS actually broke me.

[@emmysky1444]

Thanks for making this channel and these musical videos. they make my day so much brighter

[@mariaochs]

Literally was SO impressed. Laughed, cried, loved. The works.

[@alexandratamarblack8880]

It exceeded my expectations, I’ve followed Rachel since high school and was still amazed. And honestly I loved Ansel’s Tony, I don’t know what it is but I was prepared to be very disappointed by his performance and was stunned

[@reginahay4998]

I loved it. amazing choreography and talented dancing. Rachel Zegle and Mike faists as bonuses

[@mickeymouse2able]

It's a Masterpiece. I'm Puerto Rican and wow, words cannot express....my mother passed away and hope she can see this from heaven...Somewhere in heaven

[@theponderingplumb9790]

I couldn’t agree more; as someone who grew up with huge obsession with the original film, this version reminded me why this is such an amazing musical. Thank you for your review!

[@kelseighingram]

Everything about it with the obvious exception of Tony and his general lack of talent and basic human decency was, dare I say, superior to the 1961 version. Especially Rachel and Ariana (though I do adore Rita’s take on Anita too)! They really stood out to me.

[@eldiran2]

Sorry, but this Tony was far better than the original film. To be fair to ALL Tony's, it is a rather one-dimensional part, but Ansel was fine.

[@marcusscott4980]

I agree 💯. Tony isn't a well written part. The same with Romeo.

[@marlonmoncrieffe0728]

What did Ansel Elgort do wrong?

[@marlonmoncrieffe0728]

@Villager Yeah, I don't get the negative reaction towards his performance either.

[@jmgee6344]

Ansel’s Tony was amazing. He brought that old Hollywood Caliber and the chemistry between Him and Rachel was off the charts.

[@leonkaye7544]

What a review... You are amazing at how you pull details, how you feel all the emotions and convey it to us. You're great.

[@orlamacgrath8409]

They developed Chino's character too much! No way Maria is choosing the madman running through the streets shouting her name over the cute accountant trying to dance 😂**Spoilers** I found myself rooting way more for him not to kill Tony than Tony not dying tbh!

[@AlanNJUSA]

Your review is excellent! You got every aspect and nuance of the movie. 👍👍 This is the first movie review that I saved.

[@ValerieRoseLohman]

I absolutely adored it - WSS has been a favorite for forever so I was pumped to finally see it after the pushed back date. I've seen it twice so far with different friends and definitely plan to see it again before it leaves the theatre!

[@manuelorozco7760]

I finally saw it on Disney Plus last night

[@fabiesque]

What I loved about the movie also is that Spielberg brought up the racism, sexism issues WITHOUT being annoyingly woke. Tony was FABULOUS. So charming. So charismatic. Anita was also STUNNING!

[@igelkott3522]

Your comment just changed my decision from not seeing this movie to go see this movie. I was actually looking at reviews in order to find out if it the movie would be woke or not and as soon as she mentioned gentrification I went "NOPE" but then I saw your comment! So thanks :)

[@dasren]

Agreed

[@manuelorozco7760]

I was more a fan of the girls than the boys

[@chadmeredith1198]

I enjoyed it and appreciated that that they made a few tweaks to the original (while simultaneously honoring it).

[@laikacons]

I’m here for the Newsies reunion

[@matthewnord5238]

I went to see West Side Story with my 75 year old aunt. I really enjoyed it and she loved comparing the musical she saw as a teenager to the movie she was seeing as a great grandmother.

[@bethhewitt6400]

I saw the new film with my dad who is 78 years old. He also saw the original film at the cinema when he was a teenager. We were surprised to say that we think the new film is better than the old one as we had loved the old film for so long. My stepmother also saw the new film with us and preferred it.

[@manuelorozco7760]

@@bethhewitt6400 I saw the movie with my 61 year old dad

[@beyiince]

Yes, Kat. Yes, it was.

[@aaliyah_cm]

oh my god I thought the same about the dancing. I REALLY wanted to see the whole thing. They should drop fancams honestly AHAHAH

[@belle-ashton2167]

I literally saw a tweet noticing the fancams of the characters with Kpop songs. It made me so emotional because I was into West Side Story before Kpop.

[@monistreams]

I've been WAITING FOR THIS VIDEO AAAAAAAAH

[@lanieguerrero7136]

i saw it this past weekend and I absolutely loved it, it really made me appreciate the story more

[@fredd8556]

Hi Katherine. I was looking forward to your review. I actually searched for "Katherine Steele West Side Story review" a few days ago. I hope you're doing well. Take good care of your health.

[@hectormatos6195]

Academy Award nominee Ariana Debose?? More like, Academy Award WINNER Ariana Debose

[@Brii2025]

mike, rachel, rita, Ariana They all were master pieces. America just WOW. It was amazing 100%. I got to see the play and it held up to standards. And the gym scene all the dancing the outfits just once again WOW. At the rumble where riff got stabbed and he was like "its okay" and he was crying. Me and my bestfriend were about to cry, it brought such heartache along with love you could tell how much tony cared about riff and even when riff fought back at the end you could see the bound between the two of them, a connection like brothers Loved it 1000/100 for me. I will probably go see it again

[@mattwinick7659]

Great video Katherine! Also the review was great to listen to. I saw West Side Story 2021 in theaters this week. I would give it a 8 out of 10. Here are the parts I liked about the 2021 West Side Story was how it expanded on Tony and Maria's character development on their background and how they are signifiant in the story, cast was diverse instead of color faced, the choreography was creative with the lyrics of the songs, Rita Moreno made Valentina a great character with her new song Somewhere, and Rachel Zegler made Maria an influential character. Here are my thing that I had issues with the movie was how it featured people talking Spanish which it didn't have English subtitles to help me understand the conversation or confused me about part of the story, I wished that they could of had more creativity on Anita like making her try to convince Bernardo to stop the violence, and I would have loved to see Valentina's character explored to help viewers like me understand more about her character. Yes many people who saw the original of West Side Story should give this remake a chance because it does a great job on character development of Tony and Maria, there is a diverse cast, and Rita Moreno made the movie great.

[@mariaanzalotti4193]

I saw it opening night and absolutely fell in love. I didn’t know anything abt AE and once I learned abt it I stoped enjoying his Tony, but everything else in the movie was flawless to me. The acting was absolutely heartbreaking, the score must have been laced with something I swear I never want to stop listening, and the story felt more relevant than ever. Cried, laughed, soared, fell in love. All of the above.

[@jellyrcw12]

5:27 Mike Feist brought it!!!

[@gregturley35]

I like the ending better in the original! I like the singing the new one and how they give the plot detail in the new version. One thing I notice in the new version is Riff and Bernardo seem more aggressive.

[@TheFamedwarrior72]

First time on this channel, I love the original and I love this new update. I felt a rush of emotions from the beginning even as I write this (saw it last night; last year) but I never had a cry moment…maybe the only one in my family that didn’t cry. Great rearranging of the songs. Nothing added that took away from the original point of the movie and nothing removed. Artistic license was appreciated. Character development for everybody. The doom of losing their neighborhood to become the Lincoln Center. I know the Lincoln center to bring that out as part of the story was great for me. I wasn’t alive in the 50’s so I just thought the story took place south of there; this brought so much more complexity and relevance. I enjoyed your review; spot on.

[@NFNJP]

My opinion of West Side Story: It’s like eating your grandma’s pot roast and comparing it to your moms. Both are good but from different generations. Don’t compare, just enjoy both.

[@beatricedunnavan4576]

I haven't seen it yet because I am waiting to be reunited with my family over Christmas. However, I really liked what you said about how Valentina & Doc show what Maria & Tony could have been. Definitely looking forward to seeing how they pull that off.

[@manuelorozco7760]

I wanted to wait to come here until after I saw the movie

[@BetterWithBob]

aaand Ariana DeBose is officially nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars :D

[@manuelorozco7760]

My fingers are crossed for her

[@BetterWithBob]

And now she's officially won!

[@marcdoherty6039]

Loved the film...I think at the end of the day it will stand up as one of Spielberg's best films. And...I cannot..or maybe will not say that one version or the other is BETTER...they are 2 very different films each with their own pros and cons. The scene that struck me as the most tragic...Anita, who earlier that day had been extolling the American dream and her desire for a better life as an American woman, who had constantly corrected Maria and Bernardo,telling them that they needed to speak English, is manhandled by the Jets. After Valentina helps her she calls her a TRAITOR, and declares, in Spanish, I am not an American, I am Puerto Rican!

[@skyerainbow]

Thank you for your insightful and enthusiastic reviews of musicals. We watch all of your videos before we talk about various shows for our podcast Talking Musical History and we are about to record the West Side Story episode. I agree with everything you said in this video. Including what you thought could have been better, like a different Tony. He couldn’t sing. I’m someone who grew up with the 1961 version (watched it in middle school dance class) and writing a musical myself inspired partly by the late great Stephen Sondheim. We always reference you in our episodes and love what you bring to the world of dramaturgy related specifically to musicals.

[@dianelipartito6654]

In the original it was "all fun and games until something bad happened?" Nah ah. The original West Side Story was conceived by the genius choreographer Jerome Robbins and much of the emotion going on in the characters is carried in the dance and choreography which is a combination of Ballet and Modern. Not everything has to be said or explained in words. That is what made West Side Story unique among musicals. To me, the back and forth between the classical ballet elements and the modern elements in the dances set up a conflict in the characters and within the story between tradition and a changing world, the old and the new. I have no doubt this version looks cinematically fantastic, and I can see from clips the performances are extraordinary and it sounds like the tension is set up really well with more traditional film techniques and Tony Kushner's writing while a lot of the emotion is now carried by dialogue and acting and less from within the interpretative dance numbers, but it makes it kind of a different animal in lots of ways since I would say at least half of the tension and emotion in the original productions are conveyed in the dancing and the ballads. For example: The horror of what happens at the rumble is not shown in the acting, but in the choreography. To some that may make it less realistic, but realism or a literal presentation was not the goal there, it was to show the emotion and the pain through movement and relationship which is how ballet works.

[@MrHobbywatcher]

The way you do Ads is so good. You either perform a whole hilarious skit, or you risk an expensive possession to test out the product.

[@BetterWithBob]

I saw it two days ago based on your recommendation and my god it was an utter marvel. Rachel Zegler is just incredible, as was Ariana DeBose. Both of them deserve Oscar nominations for this. I think their performances are strong enough to overwrite the Academy's bias towards gritty schmaltzy biopics. I loved Rita Moreno's work so much, and I love even more that she wasn't just given a cameo; she was given a prominent role, a song and a very meaningful part of the story.

[@manuelorozco7760]

I was more a fan of the women in the cast more so than the men

[@jayjimenez5435]

Also Katherine, where is your video review of the Annie Live! telecast? It was a pretty big moment in musical history this year as well.

[@RideStorm17]

Now we need your tick tick boom review!

[@jennifer5512]

Loved your review! You explain your points so thoughtfully and are just a pleasure to listen to.

[@midnightrant7487]

Look, I'm slightly offended that none of the main cast is Puertorrican but at least Rita Moreno is in it so I'll take what I can get :')

[@idaf3028]

Ariana Debose (Anita) is Afro Puerto-Rican. I find it interesting that out of the poeple we see on screen, from the 1961 version and this version the only Puerto Ricans cast are the two Anitas

[@midnightrant7487]

@@idaf3028 1. Thank you. This is the best news you've given me. 2. That is very interesting. It can't be a coincidence tho since the majority, if not everyone, on the side of the Sharks is supposed to be puertorrican.

[@theresajimenez8055]

@@idaf3028 Ariana said that she is. half white. Her mother is Polish and her father is Black.

[@idaf3028]

@@theresajimenez8055 her father is Afro-Puerto Rican (if you know what that means) and her mother is white. And it depends on what she identifies as the most, and she leans more to her fathers side.

[@manuelorozco7760]

Well since they cast actual Latinx performers, I’ll let this slide

[@huckwalton2307]

See… the “it’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt” is what was missing for me. What’s so brutal about West Side Story, is that they’re kids. They don’t realize the danger and it becomes a heart breaking lesson for them.

[@marniewillow]

America was so beautiful, I watched the movie twice just to see it again. I remember when I saw it initially, I told myself how grateful I am to be able to witness something so amazing. From the dancing, to the singing, and even the colors of the outfits that they wore. AHHHHH just so so so gorgeous

[@manuelorozco7760]

One of my favorite scenes