Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story" | Steven On Mike | 20th Century Studios

Directed by Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. This reimagining of the beloved musical stars Ansel Elgort (Tony); Rachel Zegler (María); Ariana DeBose (Anita); David Alvarez (Bernardo); Mike Faist (Riff); Josh Andrés Rivera (Chino); Ana Isabelle (Rosalía); Corey Stoll (Lieutenant Schrank); Brian d’Arcy James (Officer Krupke); and Rita Moreno (as Valentina, who owns the corner store in which Tony works). Moreno - one of only three artists to be honored with Academy®, Emmy®, GRAMMY®, Tony® and Peabody Awards - also serves as one of the film’s executive producers.
Bringing together the best of both Broadway and Hollywood, the film’s creative team includes Kushner, who also serves as an executive producer; Tony Award® winner Justin Peck, who choreographed the musical numbers in the film; renowned Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor and GRAMMY Award® winner Gustavo Dudamel, who helmed the recording of the iconic score; Academy Award®-nominated composer and conductor David Newman (“Anastasia”), who arranged the score; Tony Award®-winning composer Jeanine Tesori (“Fun Home,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie”), who supervised the cast on vocals; and Grammy®-nominated music supervisor Matt Sullivan (“Beauty and the Beast,” “Chicago”), who served as executive music producer for the film. The film is produced by Spielberg, Academy Award®-nominated producer Kristie Macosko Krieger and Tony Award®-winning producer Kevin McCollum. “West Side Story” has been adapted for the screen from the original 1957 Broadway show, with book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and concept, direction and choreography by Jerome Robbins.
From 20th Century Studios, The Walt Disney Company will release “West Side Story” in U.S. theaters on December 10, 2021.
Twitter: @westsidemovie
Instagram: @westsidestorymovie
Facebook @westsidestory2021
Get tickets now: fandango.com/ WestSideStory

[@bouncyb7]

He was such a stand out and scene stealer in this movie, I hope he gets cast in more things after this because he deserves it

[@eveyy_xo]

Yes he was! And I also hope he gets nominated for awards this season he truly deserves it

[@zachvii6476]

The old lady, Anita, and Maria were also very well portrayed. this is definitely one of my favorites from spielberg.

[@hannahvance3798]

Yes he was

[@tallerwarrior1256]

He’s starring in Challengers right now with Zendaya

[@hay_bail1]

He was like one of the leads so

[@andrewjudeus6283]

Mike Faist stole the show in his every scene. Period.

[@Nestor123057]

I agree. You just can't help looking at him.

[@jennifer5512]

He was great in the movie. Would have liked more scenes with him. Also, in a WaPo article it mentioned that he stayed behind to clean the graffiti off the Puerto Rican flag in the movie because he felt bad about what his character did. What a nice guy!

[@soph996]

The on-screen chemistry Mike had with both David and Ansel was just phenomenal

[@Nestor123057]

You should see the movie just for Mike. Such an amazing character. No matter who's sharing the scene with him, he steals the shot. You can't help looking at him. He has that "It", they talk about. He's like a young Jimmy Cagney, of this generation.

[@NTWoo95]

One of Spielberg’s best traits is knowing a star before they’re even cast, I SINCERELY hope Mike gets cast in more things because he’s the genuine star and standout of the film

[@Nailih4]

Faist was mesmerizing. He should have been nominated for an oscar.

[@lucindaarmour7422]

He was the best thing in the film in my opinion. Really made Riff a standout complex role - hugely compelling. So pleased his film career has really taken off. Incredibly talented and charismatic actor.

[@pennyzhang3830]

I'm going to watch the movie again because of Mike. Words cannot express my love for his performance - I can't even move my eyes from him when he's on screen. HE IS A PEARL

[@hotstepofficial]

He makes this film. Incredible presence and energy.

[@rebeccaarias.]

the "You're breakin' my heart!" line hurt me so much. I was crying in that theater

[@esher1675]

I've been a huge fan of Mike since Newsies, and I'm so happy he's finally getting the recognition he deserves. He's such a talented actor and wonderful person and he played Riff incredibly well.

[@liannevalle]

He deserved an Oscar nom for this role honestly.

[@herreguda6199]

Mike Faist's portrayal was one of the absolute best things about this movie.

[@a_really_awkward_queer_person]

Mike Faist as Riff was probably my favorite part of the movie. I've absolutely adored this guy since like 2016 and I was so excited to see him in this. He was just so perfect in this role, especially in his scenes with Ansel Elgort (who was flat, but managed to be fantastic in his scenes with Mike Faist). Like the way those two were in every scene they were in was just flawless.

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

Agree with everything you said, except I didn't see Ansel as EVER flat in this BRILLIANT 2021 Cinematic MASTERPIECE! Ansel played and WAS SUPPOSED to be Understated and more SUBTLE! Riff and Anita, even Bernardo, are ALWAYS and are SUPPOSED to be SUPER Dynamic Characters, compared to Tony and Maria, but in my humble opinion, Ansel WAS PHENOMENAL as Tony and added SO much Depth and introspect, as well as, breathed new Life into this USUALLY quite bland Character! Also, if you've ever seen Ansel in ANY Movie, he IS a more Subtle, understated Actor who prefers and willingly gives others the Spotlight, hangs back a bit and "Flys more Under the Radar"! Josh Hartnett and Jared Padalecki are two OTHER Actors with that particular mindset and ability and I find that type of Acting refreshing and unique! I absolutely HATE overacting!

[@koralibra761]

I'm so happy he's finally getting the credit he deserves!!

[@abc92800]

the line deliveriess. not a single second wasted. he POPS so much

[@christinerenney4657]

He really stood out in the film. Fascinating to watch. Great screen presence.

[@eveyy_xo]

He was so perfect for this role. His performance was one of favorites

[@glh2473]

Stole every scene he was in, I could not keep my eyes off of him. He gave an incredible performance

[@pabloc6283]

He's great. My favourite actor/character of the whole movie. Amazing.

[@kathyditondo1175]

0:16 :). Having seen the '61 film so many times over the years, it was inconceivable to me anyone besides Russ Tamblyn could ever be "Riff." Mike proved me wrong. What an incredible performance.

[@BillPMcLaughlin]

Mike Feist was great as Riff. He’s getting far too little acclaim. Mike and Ansel Elgort also do a phenomenal job to portray the growing strain on the Riff-Tony relationship.

[@lucindaarmour4685]

He was the absolute star. He delivered Tony Kushners brilliant dialogue with incredible insight, complexity and power. He was the absolute standout of the film for me. Stole every scene he was in. Cant wait to see where he goes from here.

[@abc92800]

PLSSSS nominate him. He was such a magnetic screen presence, you could not keep your eyes off of him.

[@PK5SOLOMON2]

Oscar for Mike Faist

[@soranotroxas0299]

This movie is arguably one of the best remakes I’ve ever seen, this is my all time favorite musical, and although I had my doubts at first but, this movie absolutely shattered my soul in the best way possible, every single moment on screen means something and I would extremely highly recommend seeing it.

[@kp4692]

I absolutely ADORE him in this movie!!!!

[@py528]

Thank God SS casted him as Riff. Brilliance is rare. And Mike Faist is a gem.

[@didierdrogba4638]

Mike Faist was the super star of the movie! i was so surprised by his performance!

[@hopehavenhill3657]

Ok the thing that I love is that most everyone that has seen this film and has witnessed such standout performances from talented actors, has gone away feeling like they've witnessed something truly impactful. The artistic quality of this film is breathtaking, and I am just so glad to see so many people so happy to witness art in a time of hardship in this world.

[@jamielawrence4749]

Got emotional just watching this clip that's how good he was!!!!

[@idontdomarigolds]

I love how steven is actually reaching as he says "he just reachs for the stars" lol cute

[@Skatejock21]

He is so nice looking

[@sarahmargaret6498]

My Newsies heart is so proud of Mike doing so well in this

[@florencialafuente7607]

Omg sameee 😭 I’m so proud of him

[@hannahvance3798]

The on-screen chemistry mike has with both Ansel and David is phenomenal

[@sarahcanovi6399]

When I saw WSS in theaters I told my family Anita and Riff will be Oscar nominees for sure. He was sensational! What a shame that his performance was overlooked. He brought so much to the character. I don’t see how anyone could ever top his performance. He was that good.

[@nataliesquire969]

I’ve been in love with this man since Dear Evan Hansen so happy to see his career thriving🥺

[@erikakervinen1173]

Mike was phenomenal with Ansel. Their relationship had so much more depth than in the original one, I would've loved to see more of them two

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

COULDN'T agree MORE about EITHER/BOTH of them!!

[@mari-maylewis1956]

this fillmm was SO GOOD

[@manuelorozco7760]

From a Newsie to Connor Murphy to Riff! It’s so surreal of Mike. I’m delaying seeing the movie until next week.

[@hanbanan4]

I've been a huge fan of Mike since Dear Evan Hansen. So happy to see him getting the recognition he deserves.

[@poppyseed3250]

Did you go see the live performance? I’m a new fan of his, and i really wanna see Dear Evan Hansen with him in in. Unfortunately, I seem to have no access to it :(

[@nunyabusiness7664]

@@poppyseed3250 ik I'm late but you can watch recordings of Mike's performances in Dear Evan Hansen by looking up "deh slime tutorials" and it's usually the first ones to pop up. The original broadway cast stopped performing years ago, so it's only recording of them now

[@kellywong123]

He brought so much to the character and does not get enough credits! I hope he gets bunch of nominations and awards for this

[@heyitsflick]

im in love with mike faist

[@neonnights3955]

Me too, so in love 💕

[@chiefscheider]

You two should contact him. I think he'd be into a ménage à trois!

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

@@chiefscheider I DEFINITELY don't think that!! He's a good, Wholesome Midwestern Boy!!

[@jarenchilders]

mike’s voice just has something about it that i love

[@Somesaymisery]

he was my favorite part of the movie. a perfect riff. i especially loved what he did in ‘cool’. can’t wait to see what mike does next

[@MyMy-tg9oh]

He is impeccable!!! He did so well as the part of riff I mean it was incredible and his dancing is amazing I mean honestly he’s incredible! I was jumping out of my seat when I saw him in scenes! He stole the show!❤️

[@leogavitt5419]

Mike Faist was the best possible casting choice for Riff.

[@culinarycarl]

Hes so talented. Seriously, I love him so much hes always been my favorite character Mike Faist stole the whole movie PERIOD!

[@prosportsnetwork1725]

He’s an excellent dancer obviously he’s a Newsie !!!!

[@HajaLisakonneh]

I only watch this movie because of Mike faist his performance was breathtaking I adore him so much. I watch it at least twice a day just to see Mike faist he's my new favorite star can't wait to see him more often on the screen.

[@rhena229]

Just saw the movie. Mike Faist was phenomenal!

[@erpollock]

Makes me want to see his performance. Spielberg vouches for him! Every role has the Spielberg seal of approval.

[@Nestor123057]

He was surprising powerful. He is a scene stealer. You can't help looking at him, no matter who's sharing the scene.

[@dfa3366]

There could be a movie based on this character and how he became Riff and I’m all in.

[@dfa3366]

Kushner wrote this Riff as a new dimension in a already complex movie. And Mike delivered it to perfection. the 61 movie Riff was a goof ball and never really thought of him.

[@alainarisse4065]

He and the entire cast and crew did a phenomenal job!

[@QueXLcior]

He had a stand out performance. Just like the original Riff from 1961.

[@abigailcampos4981]

So happy that Mike getting more recognized 🥰 Where my newsie fans at?!?

[@rebeccaarias.]

right here!

[@jackiebrubaker1156]

✋ ✋ ✋

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

ABSOLUTELY, here!! I ADORE Newsies and Ben Cook and about 8 Former "Newsies", INCLUDING Mike, played Jets in this Movie!! Fangirling BIG time!! LOL! ❤️🤪😍

[@burthuffman2802]

Mike deserved to be nominated for an Oscar supporting- he had a good chance of winning.

[@alyjones9391]

i'm seriously so obsessed with how well this movie was cast. literally the only one who didn't completely steal the show was ansel. rachel, ariana, mike, ben cook...who would have thought that putting people who actually do theater for a living in a musical theater movie would make it better?

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

Agree with everything you said, except for, I felt that ANSEL stole the Show as PHENOMENALLY as ANYONE and EVERYONE else! Obviously, we can agree, to disagree, though! LOL!

[@pilartrujillo3790]

He's so talented and charming 😍

[@Xoxo.Juli3t]

I remember when I first watched this movie freshman year in my intro to theatre class and I literally COULD NOT take my eyes of Riff/ Mike Faist. Mike Faist really stood out in this cast with his dancing and acting it's phenomenal. He seriously needs to be in more musicals.

[@msfrizzbizz]

perfection

[@heyitsnoreen]

When my mom and I saw it the first person we said we loved was this actor! He's got a career ahead of him.

[@jackiechan5486]

who's here after Challengers?

[@Roxxenne]

I'm so proud

[@_aiko020]

I loved him in newsies, he's truly an amazing dancer.

[@tenniset]

I am really looking forward to this new version, so I have to say something here.

[@delanydavis5752]

Favorite part of the film

[@luisferagru4244]

Easily the best actor in this film

[@meganfultz8118]

Been a fan of his since Newsies! I even went to watch DEH on broadway just to see him (I live in the midwest) AND went to an event in Ohio to meet him and get a pic! I've always respected him as an actor and a human being and he was absolutely perfect for this role. I have never liked WSS (stems from my extreme dislike of the plot to R&J) and only watched the movie because Mike was in it (well david alvarez was another person i wanted to see--BILLY ELLIOT). the performances of mike and everyone else in the cast were so spectacular that i can't help but listen to the album on repeat. I've already seen the movie in theatres five times since thursday lol

[@mermaidlagoon]

loved mike since forever now and i’m so incredibly proud

[@megb7758]

Wow! Imagine this praise from Spielberg at such an early age in his career

[@tom_o4822]

He robbed the main character of this movie! Great presence and charisma! He is a great actor!!👍👍👍

[@aaronjanlistanco]

New crush have been arrived.. Mike Faist..

[@ellentmarlow]

President of the Mike Faist fan club 🙋🏼‍♀️

[@MAHU_music]

My baby boy he is a Star ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️✨✨✨✨✨

[@camillethompson6686]

Just saw this movie today it was amazing!!

[@harryjnagle7321]

You Rocked it You Got it You and You Got it 👍 well Done 2 you all

[@alicecooper5406]

Mike and Ansel are AMAZING in the movie 👏👏👏

[@jennifer5512]

Mike and David yes. Ansel no.

[@jurassicpark1fan920]

Ansel was okay but everyone else is amazing.

[@neonnights3955]

@@jennifer5512 agree, my 2 favorites were Mike and David in that order

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

ALICE Cooper Agree 1000%!!

[@harryjnagle7321]

I Just Love ❤ 😍 💖 ❣ 💕 💘 this Movie is one of My Favourite Musical of all Times

[@harryjnagle7321]

I Just Love ❤ 😍 💖 ❣ 💕 💘 All 50s Songs Hits From The Movie

[@stephenc6342]

I’m not really into theater but this was really really good

[@Spazzyrika]

I thought he was the most incredible part!

[@aina151]

love him

[@florencialafuente7607]

I LOVE YOU MIKE 🙏🙏💖💖💞💗💝😽

[@sumandas9039]

♥️♥️♥️awesome movie♥️♥️♥️

[@junsfallinflower]

loving mike

[@joycechi5005]

LOVEEEEEE HIM

[@belle-ashton2167]

Petition for Mike Faist as Kaz Brekker in a Six Of Crows musical.

[@phoebe71]

Oh my god you're so right

[@mikasaackermanismygf]

best actor in that movie

[@xvs8675]

This actor SCREAMS The Joker. WB should sell out to get this man opposite Robert Pattinson’s Batman.

[@fernandomoreno6197]

Barry Keoghan (Druig in eternals), is also being considered

[@rocknroll20024]

Yay I could see that

[@FlyingFocs]

He's also got the face for it. And I mean that in the nicest possible way.

[@twinpeaksfan929]

The Joker needs to be retired already. He's been done enough.

[@rebeccaarias.]

@@twinpeaksfan929 the Joker is also one of Batman's classic villlains. If they were to make a movie about, say, Batman vs Calendar Man, very few people know who the villain is. You say "The Joker" and everyone will know who you're talking about.

[@harryjnagle7321]

Of West Side Story 2021

[@abc92800]

Go mikey

[@abc92800]

😍😍😍

[@barbarahourigan8462]

❤️❤️

[@joliecide]

Greatest crime movie ever.

[@EChacon]

Now we need Steven on Ansel Elgort (Tony).

[@willrolandprotectionsquad]

there is one. it just isn’t posted on this account

[@EChacon]

@@willrolandprotectionsquad It already got uploaded

[@janebarry-fraundorf4623]

AWESOME!! Where is IT?! I LOVE ANSEL, in this Role and OTHERWISE!! Mike Faist, David Alvarez, etc., too!

[@whimsicalfr13]

i still know mike faist as connor murphy

[@BigMacCoyle]

😍

[@ohtrueyeahnah]

Mike and Ariana stole the show.