West Side Story 1961 Vs 2021 Remake 💃🏽 Cast Then and Now

[@DYR]

Do you think the New Movie will be any good? 🤔

[@rebrock67]

I don't think it will be bad, but it will be hard to be better than the original.

[@allisonhartman3641]

The Originals are ALWAYS the BEST.

[@randywhite3947]

Allison Hartman that depends the Maltese Falcon And the Wizard of Oz (yes this was a remake) are better than their original versions

[@dreamy_mary]

I think it definitely will be good! I have faith in Spielberg and his fabulous cast ) I think it'll be different from the classic one, more grittier and more realistic

[@video198712]

no

[@susanpaul8259]

I don't know if the original can be topped. But when I was 12 there was no one like George Chikaris in those tight chinos and never will be. America is my all time favorite musical dance number. So happy Rita Moreno will be in the new movie. Great tribute to the 1961 original.

[@chikkipop]

I remember being stunned by that movie when it came out. Of course I was looking mostly at all the pretty girls twirling their pretty dresses! ;-) I'm sure there will be plenty of that in the new version.

[@cecilreed7543]

That’s the problem with remakes of classic movies….you already know it won’t be on the level of the original..ou can only hope they come close….us I also are easier because we love the songs from the original

[@steveabrams777]

Chakiris

[@autumnfranklin6790]

My only hope for this movie is they will bring back the vintage style of doing choreography. Where actors come in and dance with the long camera shots. Modern ways of filming movie musicals kind of make the dancing seem less fantastical due to the way they film it now

[@seppyq3672]

I'm sure they won't. Sadly.

[@monadarling74]

Yep, nowadays dance scenes are too heavily edited.

[@donniemoder1466]

The camera dances now instead of the people.

[@glenncambray626]

@@donniemoder1466 Very well put.

[@kathleen7849]

I'm sorry to say but there will never be another Rita Moreno.

[@Emmareads15]

You don't have to be sorry, you are 100% right, nobody can compare to the legend of Rita Moreno.

[@m.syauqiabdurahman2798]

@@Emmareads15 Even Ariana Debose Will Did A Pretty Good Job As Anita , Rita Moreno's Anita Is Still The Best .

[@aatb7]

Did you know that Rita Moreno is in the remake? She doesn’t play Anita, but she plays a female version of Doc in this one. I sent her a message that she should try to contact the Guinness Book of World Records for greatest amount of time between appearing in an original movie and its sequel (59 years).

[@kathleen7849]

@@aatb7 I love her! lol

[@FalconPUNCHXXX]

These only one Rita Moreno.💕 they could never.

[@rebrock67]

My favorite character was Anita. The girl taking that role will have to be excellent to make us not miss Rita Moreno.

[@DYR]

We agree those are big shoes to fill!

[@ginal1861]

Also well played by Debbie Allen on Broadway.

[@audramcdonaldapologist3676]

Rebecca Brock DeBose is a great dancer and has an amazing voice she is a Tony nominee I don’t think she will disappoint at all!

[@joewhitehead3]

Rita Moreno’s actually going to appear in the movie

[@ElizabethRodriguez-qr3gz]

Rebecca Brock Ariana DeBose is amazing look her up watch her dance and listen to her cover of if I were a boy

[@songstressx871]

I was following Rachel Zegler on social media and was a huge fan well before she landed the role, and you can imagine my excitement when I found out that an unknown theater student from New Jersey who I knew had landed a leading role in a Spielberg movie! I am so ridiculously excited to see her performance!

[@gloriaflores6775]

I couldn’t help but notice that Rachel Zegler bears a passing resemblance to Natalie Wood.

[@jillianrae1343]

Me too!!!! I’m so excited for her!! I saw part of this being filmed and she’s amazing 💜💜

[@yogadr6]

Get a grip, children. Icons and exclamation points don't mean a thing, other than within your sophomoric minds....

[@angelaloera7470]

Me too! I was a huge fan of hers!!!! Her voice was just gorgeous! I’m glad she’s playing Maria!

[@jillianrae1343]

@@yogadr6 I'm not a child I'm a 35-year-old woman who is extremely proud of this young talented girl from my town. She beat out thousands and thousands of women for this part. I will !!!!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ All I want. Have a good day. ✌🏼

[@animalsarebeautifulpeople3094]

What made West Side Story so memorable is also the incomparable dance directions and choreography of Jerome Robbins. Without his energy I doubt the new movie would reach a comparable level of perfection.

[@Bigbadwhitecracker]

Fantastic point!!!

[@jackienaiditch7965]

I absolutely agree with you. West Side Story was all about the dancing, impeccably choreographed by Robbins. Without Robbins, I'm not sure what we'll get. But, this does seem to be a passion project for Spielberg. so I'll keep an open mind and see what we get.

[@barbaraobach]

Without the 1961 cast, director, choreographers and singers,it's going to fall short, just not great like the original.

[@cicihouston6965]

Don't underestimate Justin Peck. He was a wunderkind choreographer for good reason...

[@barbaraobach]

@@cicihouston6965 Justin Peck's likely a talented choreographer, this middleage GenX Philadelphian fuddy duddy , just comparing the 1961 version, which I think onlyy flaw that it didn't go into depth with thw characters, was other than that superb, feel that Speilberg's approach was wrong in wanting tyo make sure all the Sharks had somme Hispanic dna, no Hispanics arn't at all monolithic, not in accents ,culture or dna. nothing not even her horrible accent said 'Puerto Rican girll from the hood or the island' about Rachel Steglar ? She looked to me like a Colombian girl trying to play a Puerto Rican girl, awaful, if they wantred a Hispanic they should of gone with American Ferrera , Jessica Alba or Eva Longoria, all of partial Mexican anscestry but all especially Ferrera can act and along with my 64yr old Rican sisterinlaw or would of made a better Maria, speilberg and his wife had a border racist, ignorant moment by picking a girl, any girl as long as they're sortof Hispanic as though Hispanics can be lumped together, sorry this girl can sing, but lacks acting skills and she's no Puerto Rican, Natalie Wood by far nailed the Puerto Rican essense, much more . just as bad if not worse was her maler lead Ansel ? who played Tony, awful and he had no chemistry with the girl. So again doiwn the line the fall way short weven the actor that played Bernardo, that's a Puerto Rican street tough or boxer ? Everything from his accent to his attitude was wrong, George Chakiris wasn't Puerto Rican but he looked it , lots of Puerto Ricans look like that and most have some Greek anscestry like Chakiris, who was a far superior performer than these kids . Finally again the guy that played Riff was pretty good, but more like Sqiggy from Laverne and Shirley than tough Riff.

[@genevievesimon4810]

Am I the only one that doesn’t know how to feel about Ansel Elgort playing Tony?😳

[@ayushibhanja]

Genevieve Simon you are not alone!!

[@eldiran2]

Although knowing the play well, he is actually ideal for the part of 'Polish' Tony. Much moreso than Beymer in the original film, who was also terribly bland.

[@gabbyvelasquez3767]

yup especially after the sexual assault allegations, makes me not wanna see this movie cause of him.

[@genevievesimon4810]

eric russell I do agree with that, although I do love Beymer. I do think the character should be given a bit more personality and character, but Beymer’s version just makes me smile the whole time. I don’t know. I just think that his eyes and smile are the things that make his performance because they are full of life, longing, and love, which definitely embody the character.

[@genevievesimon4810]

Gabby Velasquez Yes! He’s always given me bad vibes, and now I know why.

[@valentino4411]

The guy that played "Ice" in the Original was so beautiful. His eyes and nice hair. He has a striking face.

[@nealsmall9316]

I'm sad that the actor who played Ice died 😔

[@billylin5404]

Please don't turn West Side Story into another "Cats" 2019.

[@DYR]

Agreed

[@tfpp1]

Also, please don't turn it into "The Last Jedi".

[@billylin5404]

Joe River Actually I am not a millennial, and I love Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS (the stage musical). I just didn’t like many things (not all of them) Hollywood did with the 2019 movie version where they undercut the quality of some of the songs by having actors SPEAK what were originally meant to be sung, and did all the goofy CGI. I don’t like seeing good musicals being ruined when made into a movie adaptation, that was all I meant to say. If they decide to adapt a musical into a movie, good, MAKE A GOOD ONE. That’s all I ask of them.

[@maisondusuave]

No creativity. Sick of lame remakes.

[@colonyofrats4193]

Arthur Bhutic wtf

[@kathrynmolesa1641]

George Chakiris was so dreamy.

[@acun4075]

You can't expect this to be as good as the original, it doesn't mean it won't be good, you just can't improve on something that well done. One of the best musicals of all time.

[@LatinDanceVideos]

Maybe. I find it hard to watch old movies. Production quality has improved significantly. Format has changed. Immersion saturation matters.

[@danimiller9932]

I prefer the new one, because while the Broadway show of course was lovely and so was the movie, I can’t get past the racist depictions of Puerto Ricans and the fact that white actors painted their skin darker and spoke with stereotypical accents in the 1961 film. I think that the movie can only get better from that, and I love the remake because it keeps the heart of the show intact but also adds a more detailed and niche perspective to the show.

[@mjh5437]

@@danimiller9932 Don`t worry,I`m sure the new version will be totally PC .

[@ThouSwell-zx3fd]

It's like trying to remake The Wizard of Oz

[@kappadan7464]

I saw Mike Faist and almost fainted

[@jordanmf27]

Katherine Howard I FREAKED OUT!

[@valeriazavalza4123]

BEN COOK

[@fiddler_stickss]

It's a newsie overload! Mike, Ben, AND Kyle!

[@elaineschildmeyer3877]

My favorite character was Anita. Rita Moreno was spectacular in that role. Unforgettable!

[@nataliepolsinelli6943]

They can remake what ever they want but nobody I said nobody can replace Natalie wood the most beautiful may she RIP

[@logical1291]

I agree. I hope they do it justice.

[@punkwrestle]

The women who couldn’t even sing? Anyone who can sing would be an upgrade.

[@user-mv9tt4st9k]

Especially when the singing voice sounds like hundreds of others out there... 🙄

[@fiorellam4397]

An actual latina would be a better option...

[@ia62389_]

@@fiorellam4397 theyre racists who only wanna see white women in the media. notice how they get so pressed when the casting is actually accurate to the story

[@marleyfrost215]

I’m surprised they didn’t mention Maddie Ziegler playing Velma. Velma is a smaller role (one of the Jet girls) but Maddie is pretty talented. She’s one of the girls from Dance Moms and went on to star in Sia’s videos.

[@mickeymouse2able]

I know right!!! Nobody EVER mentions the Shark Ladies! They're amazing and tough. In the movie, I love those characters!

[@fredgregatl]

I love Graziella. She has the best line in the whole show, “I and Velma ain’t dumb.” I love how she says it.

[@Hummingbird-yu3kt]

not 'went on to star' she was still on Dance Moms when she was collaborating with Sia. I think Maddie has really explored a lot more genre's and challenged herself since parting ways with Abby Lee Miller and Dance Moms...she was being stifled

[@dorisl6582]

Maddie is a versatile dancer and West Side Story is notorious for its sensational choreography so it will be very exciting to see

[@barbaraobach]

That's interesting was she good in the role as Velma, I didn't see the whole West Side remake, but from what I see it pales in it's entirety cast, crew director, to the 1961 version

[@tomtraphagen1906]

Saw West Side Story at age 9 in 1962. It was so engaging I couldn’t get it out of my mind. Riff was my favorite. For weeks after, I kept wishing Riff had survived the rumble! Russ Tamblyn was that good! He was so cool, confident and gave a powerful performance. Watched it as the stage play at Palace Theater, NYC, and watched the movie again and again.

[@barbarabonnette2705]

Reading your post Tom.....made me I remembered going to West Side Story at 5 years old age with my Mom. Since then, I’ve watched it a million times and love it over and over!

[@tomtraphagen1906]

@@barbarabonnette2705 What a tremendous movie! I’m looking forward to the new movie! Rita Moreno is in it, too! Thank you for your reply, Barbara!

[@a.t.6322]

You’re right. Russ was the best dancer in the original movie cast.

[@AmandaaRose]

So proud of Mike Faist. Can’t wait to see him in this. Same with Rachel. 🤧💖

[@virginiajustice7716]

Who else is here for Mike Faist or Ben cook ❤️

[@ckotcher1]

I have no idea who that is

[@marianas7404]

I want Ben to play riff cause he was playing it in the broadway show, but Mike is insane as well!!! They’re both so talentedddd!!! Ughhh

[@jesslburke]

I’m here for Myles and Ben

[@j.cheung7274]

FANSIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@TW-mc9wk]

Hope they don’t destroy the music . Bernstein was the master

[@slihrih1340]

Yes he was, but listening to the music that's used in the new trailer...those strings gave me goosebumps. Fingers crossed they maintain that.

[@charlotteck3113]

Mike’s performance is truly remarkable in the new version

[@lulamidgeable]

Hey, Russ Tamblyn was in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers - a long time before WSS. Awesome musical talent.

[@denisesudell2538]

Yes, and his role in Tom Thumb was also before WSS - he didn’t get it “because of” WSS, as this video says. As soon as I heard that incorrect statement, I stopped trusting the info in the video.

[@Bowiebonolennon1982]

He played the youngest brother--- and the reason there were only seven, apparently...

[@marknewton6984]

He was great!

[@lkayh]

I had such a huge crush on George Chakiris. LOVED watching him dance. And Russ Tamblyn-he was so athletic in WSS. I hope the choreography keeps some of his moves.

[@marknewton6984]

The Two Best!

[@outercyberia]

The new movie will, I’m sure, be stellar. Though it’ll be hard to top George Chakiris, Rita Moreno and Russ Tamblyn et al.

[@nikulmer5570]

My favorites are riff because I'm a fan of Mike faist and baby john because i played him in. My school play

[@geraldinegreene1853]

They better not mess this up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@bobbybritnenyfitzpatrick6770]

They will I do not think this movie should be touch this is my favorite movie .

[@terrierowlett2272]

WHY do they keep redoing Great movie. The remake usually aren’t very good and most totally SUCK! !

[@rebekahsegun8319]

@@terrierowlett2272 They're NOT remaking the 1961 film- they're doing their own adaptation of the STAGE production.

[@daniellemartinez8810]

I loved loved loved west side story with Natalie wood. I’m going to be a tough cookie with the remake because the original was a timeless classic.

[@johndeluca230]

"Okay, Jets... Smartphones in your pockets! We gonna fight now!"

[@DYR]

😆

[@EvilJester119]

The remake is scheduled for release on December 10, 2021. Rita Moreno will celebrate her 90th birthday on December 11, 2021. That’s an awesome way to celebrate her birthday.

[@mickeymouse2able]

I LOVE Maria. She's so wonderful. She's shy and pushed around by everyone then at the end she takes over and tells everyone that they are basically, um, JERKS! Just like Dorothy in Wizard of Oz. Dorothy is in charge! Not the Wizard. She kept these 3 goof balls together and was able to put up with the witch and not need therapy ( until Return to Oz...ugh)

[@TheLeah2344]

I really hope this lives up to the original because I LOVE the original West Side Story and I just rewatched it for the millionth time.

[@terrierowlett2272]

It won’t

[@rebekahsegun8319]

More so, it should live up to the original Broadway production as that is what it is based on rather than the 1961 film.

[@ふぅ0720]

The cast in 1961 was very attractive. I was a little disappointed when I saw the remake cast. The performers at that time thought it was very unique and they didn't need to be remade.

[@ellegolightly8512]

@Dorset Deb wow yikes surely talent should trump looks but this is irrelevant since the entire cast is beautiful anyway. I don’t think the fact that the entire cast was attractive in the original is what made it iconic so your point is kinda strange :/

[@vicentereacts1304]

@Trinity Gilreath the actor who played Tony wasn't Polish in neither the original nor the remake version, so I don't see the problem in not picking puerto-ricans to play puerto-ricans.

[@simluv.7483]

@@vicentereacts1304 I think she’s referring to how white people were being put in brown face to play Puerto Rican’s in the original which was very highly upsetting to find out since it’s a classic

[@rebekahsegun8319]

@@vicentereacts1304 The Jets are of Polish DESCENT- not actually Polish. The Sharks are all first generation Americans who immigrated to America from Puerto Rico recently.

[@vicentereacts1304]

@@rebekahsegun8319 but Rachel Zegler is not a migrant from PR, she was already born in the mainland. New Jersey, to be more precise. And she is actually more Polish than Ansel (through her father). If you ask me, she should be one of the Jets, but hey, it's fiction. I don't mind people of a certain ethnicity playing different ethnicities (how many times has Meryl Streep done that, for Christ's sake), I just don't see the point on picking on Natalie Wood's (actress who played Maria in the 1961 version) casting in the first film and not on Richard Beymer's (actor who played Tony in the 1961 version).

[@joewhitehead3]

I know that Rachel Zegler will be incredible as Maria! Very much looking forward to the movie!

[@m.syauqiabdurahman2798]

But I So hyped because Ariana Will Play Anita (Personally The Best Character In West Side Story).

[@joewhitehead3]

Uki Not sure who she is yet, but I’m sure she’ll be great

[@pe60rc1]

I’m still not ready for the new cast and the remake ofWest Side Story. I’d grow up watching this movie since I was a little boy. This’s one of my favorite musical ever. This classical movie... I can’t visualize o imagine Gone With The Wind without Vivían Leigh as Scarlet O’Hara, Clark Gable as Rett Buttler or Hattie Mc Daniels as Mammi. It’s so hard fo me to see a remake from a classical movie ...

[@joinjen3854]

Richard Beymer...so dreamy. He was also great in some scenes from the WW2 movie THE LONGEST DAY, especially with Richard Burton.

[@Bigbadwhitecracker]

Totally agree but Natalie Wood hated him and made his life a living hell during filming which is why he doesn't participate in cast reunions. WSS is a bad memory for him. Apparently, she wanted Warren Beaty or Steve McQueen for Tony. To put up with all that garbage for months shows you what a great actor Dick Beymer really is.

[@2034916]

I personally loved Richard Beymer’s performance. The bedroom scene I still find very sensual. The ending still is very sad, and that’s because of HIS performance, along with Natalie Wood and the music.

[@jackienaiditch7965]

Yuck. I thought he was the weakest link in West Side Story. Zero charisma. Zero sex appeal. (I thought he was great in Twin Peaks, though.) Now George Chakiris, on the other hand...

[@Hummingbird-yu3kt]

NO...don't ruin one of my favorite movies! When I was in HS we were studying Shakespeare in English lit. one of our assignments was to compare and contrast Romeo and Juliet with West Side Story. I've been hooked ever since. No one will be able to match Natalie Wood's talent and Rita Moreno's sass. Sometimes it's better to just let the original stand on its own and let it shine.

[@meca03]

Not to rude, but if you don’t want it to be ruined for you then just don’t watch it.

[@tianiglasgow3804]

omg!!! i am doing that exact assignment right now!!! but we have to compare Romeo & Juliet (Baz Lurmann) - Romeo & Juliet (Franco Zefferelli) - West Side Story!

[@mariyam643]

Nah the remake would have real latinos and not painted brown faces plus Rita Moreno would be there too

[@alielsayed3549]

The producers who are making this remake are out of their mind. You can not duplicate the magic from the original film

[@davidreidenberg9941]

Well they just did.

[@kink2110]

@@davidreidenberg9941 No they didn't

[@marknewton6984]

High Noon!

[@T.R.L.H1991]

The remake will be real. Because, puerto rican characters play by Puerto Rican or latino actors. The first one where play by not latino actors. Because back in The day they dont want latino or black people in movies.

[@Derek_M1967]

I guess Rita Moreno might be surprised that she lost her Latina card.

[@fsketchartdesigns9115]

Yeah, the only Latino actress was Anita's actress, Rita Moreno. It's a shame that the previous cast did not represent the ethnicities, but thankfully, the new one should!!!

[@nxstars14]

But the have teen beach movies but it’s kinda a remake but the movies are taking Place in the movie so it’s kinda a remake

[@emerybayblues]

@@fsketchartdesigns9115 Latinos who could act and dance, possibly sing (although singing could be dubbed).

[@QueCosaSiempre]

Rita Moreno 'n José de Vega (who was Chino at the movie) were latino actors, and they played latino characters at the movie. By the way... only latino actors can play latino characters???? Only straight actors can play straight characters? Only jew actors can play jew characters or the whole movie was wrong? *Let's film "Schildler's List" again... coz LIAM NEESON is NOT GERMAN!!!!!*

[@JK-kv1xl]

For younger movie fans who don't know 1961 made Natalie Wood a major superstar as she was also nominated for Splendor In The Grass. She was one of the top female stars of the 1960s, a notch or so behind Liz Taylor. Such a sad and unfair ending for her!

[@a.t.6322]

I agree. Natalie Wood was not only beautiful, but a true star

[@3388winterthur]

100% the old one 1961. It was my most beautiful dream movie in my childhood.

[@XXthekingofyouXX]

I'm pretty optimistic about this remake. The cast looks really solid and as long as the production is good it should be quite an experience. No comparisons are needed cause no one can replace giants like Natalie Wood and Rita Moreno.

[@lauriebriggs9705]

I agree about Rita but Natalie was not Latina and she couldn’t sing and had to be dubbed. Sooo.

[@archraskal]

@@lauriebriggs9705 The important thing is that Natalie Wood had charisma and plays a totally convincing Latina. She succeeded in the role with someone else's voice doing her singing. Maybe you're not one of them, but many people who are invested in the remake have a political and cultural agenda going on of some sort.

[@perfectsplit5515]

@@archraskal I saw the remake, and I could not see any political propaganda or political agenda in the story. And I am a Trump-supporting conservative.

[@archraskal]

@@perfectsplit5515 Many people are discussing this movie, quite often, with the agenda I;ve purposed. It's noticeable.This really doesn't have anything to do with who you vote for president.

[@a.t.6322]

@@archraskal there’s always an agenda. Painting all the stars including Rita Moreno in a brown skin tone during the 1950s was an agenda.

[@katesomarriba6026]

This is my favorite musical because I grew up watching it. The original is so special to me and I hope they don’t ruin it.

[@joewhitehead3]

You ever seen it on stage?

[@jasminesea4112]

I loved George Chakiris and Rita Moreno 🥰

[@marknewton6984]

The best! And Tamblyn too...

[@jasminesea4112]

@@marknewton6984 yesss, Russ is an incredible Riff

[@marknewton6984]

I don't think they can beat the Original!

[@LauraEKellyCreative]

I saw the movie on Monday night and it was spectacular! Amazing young cast, supported by a few grand Broadway veterans, like a glowing Rita Moreno. Shot up close and personal, with beautiful lighting, and yes, some scenes are not only different but better than the original. You’ll see. Thanks, Stephen Spielberg for a wonderful revival of this 60-year-old classic!

[@ellentravers7889]

The original cast were young too, so ...?

[@davidmendriski2661]

I saw WSS in 1961 at the age of 16. I will soon be 76 for the remake. I was a total fanatic throughout my youth. I stopped counting my trips to the movies to see it again at 32 times. I knew the whole script by heart. I dreamed of owning my own copy someday and then some genius invented the VCR. When DVDs came along I was nearly first in line to buy one. WSS shaped much of my youth and I still wish each time that Chino had worse aim. I cannot wait to start another bout of fanaticism in my waning years. Thanks to everyone who took part in creating the most fabulous musical ever. It is time for this remake because I have run into people who unbelievably never heard of WSS at all.

[@mrjones29]

I don't even need to watch this to know no one will ever compare to the legendary beauty that was Natalie Wood in this role. Doing so just makes anyone trying look stupid.

[@davie9944]

Smh are we just forgetting that Mike was a newsie? Also, I’m super super excited to see Ariana Debose as Anita (she really is incredible, so to everyone who is worried, have faith in her!!!) and Rachel Zegler as María (also an incredible actress and vocalist who I am so excited for).

[@fiddler_stickss]

Newsies forever! There's three of them in this, and I'm pumped! (Mike, Ben, and Kyle)

[@lydiafreeman6846]

@@fiddler_stickss also the Guzman twins. There’s a lot of newsies

[@meklavier4664]

one thing for sure, the 2021 cast dont have to apply paint to their face to make them darker

[@annarodriguez9868]

Lol! I'm Hispanic and pass for white even though I have dark eyes and hair. I love when jaws drop when I speak Spanish to Hispanics who think I didn't understand what they were saying. It works that way too with whites who think i don't speak English. Nobody is being mean, they just don't know that they are confused about me. I'm bilingual, but I'm not going to wear a badge saying I'm bilingual. Lol

[@dalinadanergy1432]

I am so proud of this new version of the movie!!.Congratulations all, especially to my handsome and talented Nephew David, who I know 100% will bring (brough already ) amazing and powerful energies to this new atmosphere❤!!.

[@FreyaF...]

Believe it or not, Rita Moreno played the character Zelda in the 1952 movie "Singin' in the Rain"!! She was so young. And beautiful.

[@composerdoh]

Rita Moreno- she was on The Electric Company! With Morgan Freeman!

[@femles0o]

Bernardo was a savage, I seriously doubt anyone can nail this roll like he did!

[@katybeard]

My favorite character is definitely Riff, I don’t like him as a person but I like how he has depth and is not just a good guy. Mike Faist was amazing in this role and I couldn’t be more happy

[@animerlon]

My favourite character is Anita, because i love Rita Moreno & how she played her. [also because that's my name, lol]

[@ritaramos7369]

Loved the newer version. The actors really sang in this one. Fabulous.

[@metallicmikus]

West Side is one of my favorite musicals and I can’t wait for the movie to come out. I have a huge attachment to the show as it was my schools spring musical this year.

[@maggiev77]

There will never be another Rita Moreno or a cast like the original West Side Story.

[@elarakirtland2454]

My favourite character is riff but my all time dream is to be Maria on stage someday :) xxx

[@stoopnoop]

You can do it!

[@tommie659]

You guys mentioned that the wonderfully talented Marni Nixon, who dubbed for Deborah Kerr in King &. I & Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady. But you failed to mention that the beautiful singing for Tony was by Jimmy Bryant. He's still alive & kicking in West Hollywood. Or was in 2019!

[@tommie659]

I've met Jimmy & Rita Moreno irl, both were very nice. I was really impressed with Ms Moreno's kindness!!! She paid me a very nice compliment that I will cherish for the rest of my life!!!

[@the_piano_diva]

@@tommie659 what did she say??

[@lisalindsey277]

I don't care if George Chakiris wasn't Puerto Rican.... He will always be my Bernardo

[@joewhitehead3]

My only complaint about was his sing during the America number

[@carollipton4584]

The guy that Spielberg cast doesn't have the looks, the legs, or the grace of George Chakiris. He's totally uncharismatic. I don't know what Spielberg was thinking.

[@dkblack3461]

Chakiris just oozed sensuality and charisma. I'm a little concerned about the actor they've cast to replace him. He does't appear to have those smouldering good looks, but he's clearly talented - hopefully he's charismatic!

[@DS-zj2on]

I remember. Memorized every lyric back in '61. But THIS one was brilliant, mesmerizing, magnificent, some presentational singing--gone and motivated. Maria and Tony sang their OWN songs. What brilliant direction by so many. Seeing it again for sure!!

[@a.t.6322]

I really enjoyed the new version, but still prefer the old one for sentimental reasons. I’m Puerto Rican and I had absolutely no problem, believing that Natalie Wood was a Puerto Rican. She did a great job.

[@DonJay130]

West Side Story was the first movie musical i saw back when i was a kid. I loved it so much, I went back to see it 9 more times. Lol. It has a special place in my heart. I will see the new version with an open mind but I know i won't be able to help missing Natalie Wood and George Chakiris.

[@randysimmon341]

I played “Tony” at a summer stock production...it was a dream come true. I loved the movie from the first time l saw it. though Tony may not have the greatest lines, or even what some would consider a “leading man” role, the music his character sings....my GAWD... the absolute best! Hands DOWN!! I can’t wait for the new version, though no cast will ever unseat from my heart, the original cast! (And who DOES NOT love the role of Anita?!?!? Such anger and love, passion and power!!!!!)

[@lulamidgeable]

Tony gets immense songs. But the soundtrack is packed with good numbers.

[@shamanite]

I don't understand the concept of remaking perfect movies. It's an experience doomed from the start: you KNOW it will never be as good as the original

[@joewhitehead3]

Some remakes were successful. Besides, this has been remade numerous times on stage

[@punkwrestle]

It’s not perfect. They didn’t have many people of color in it, the leads couldn’t even sing. So it seems like this will be a lot better because they are casting people who have been on a broadway stage and can sing and dance.

[@carollipton4584]

@@punkwrestle No one could possibly be better than Rita Moreno and George Chakiris.

[@holohologram]

Punkwrestle yes! This movie really needs to be remade bc the music and story is wonderful but the brownface makes me so uncomfortable!

[@punkwrestle]

Carol Lipton Maybe, but we definitely can do better for Tony and Maria, who didn’t even sing. If the lead actors in a musical can’t sing, can we really call that musical the best it can be? Mickey Roonie is a great actor, but wouldn’t someone who didn’t need to tape their eyes be better playing someone Asian in Breakfast at Tiffany’s?

[@andrewdrabble8939]

West Side Story is one of those films that should never be remade. My Dad often reminisces about the time he saw the stage version with George Chikaris when he watches the film

[@stevie68a]

Natalie Wood to me, will always be the perfect Maria. Rita Moreno, also a perfect Anita, whose dancing could light a fire.

[@marknewton6984]

Don't forget Chakiris and Tamblyn!

[@sunnygirlsense]

The old school camera, made everyone look quite tan. When I was little I honestly couldn’t tell the difference between the sharks and jets. I thought it was stupid for them to fight, when they all looked the same.

[@AnnaJulianaBayer]

I absolutely adored the original movie! Natalie Wood however was always painfully unable to mimic any kind of Latino accent, which always took me out of the movie a bit. Anita was definitely the best character and actress!

[@ginal1861]

Anybodys. I love that girl.

[@SpamEggSausage]

me too and she ALWAYS gets left out

[@sadgnome3462]

my favourite character is probably Anita

[@surfraptor]

Went to the 1961 movie in the mid 60s, with my first date. Two days ago I want to 2021 version with my wife. Spielberg did great! Highly recommended!

[@abigailhamilton8983]

As a drama student in London in the Late 1950's, I was supposed to go to the Theatre every week and write a review! In Early December, 1958 a friend and I chose to pay 2/6d to sit in the "Gods" (the very top row) of Her Majesty's theatre to see the 2nd night of "West Side Story". it was a revelation, to us, I can still remember the awe at some of the scene changes, to this day (I'm 81 now). It has been my favourite musical ever since, I till find myself singing along with all the songs, but my favourite was always Rita Moreno singing "A boy like that!" with so much pain and anguish in her performance!

[@quasiscorner2589]

The original is perfect. Spielberg has laid eggs in the past.

[@nycava0520]

Rita Moreno is one of only 15 people to be part of the EGOT club! I’ll stick to the 1961 version thank you.

[@mic187x2]

She was the 1st .

[@michaellazzeri9439]

SIR-------AT NOW 75 Y/O, I AM A LIFETIME LOVER OF CINEMA. AND, IN MY LIFETIME, " WEST SIDE STORY " IS MY ALL-TIME #1 FILM. I SAW IT AS A 14 Y/O IN '61, & TO THIS DAY, THE FILM IS A MASTERPIECE NEVER EQUALED. THIS NEW FILM MAY BE , IN SOME OR MANY WAYS, " BETTER " -----BUT IT CAN NEVER, EVER, BE THE CLASSIC I GREW UP WITH; AS MUCH AS I RESPECT SPIELBERG, I JUST WISH, HE HAD LEFT A GREAT FILM, ALONE. ------------MJL

[@urmum7796]

Ariana debose did SOOOOOO WELL AS ANITA. SHE FILLED THOSE FRIGGIN SHOES

[@robmulero3554]

It's gonna be a great cast. I can't wait.

[@joewhitehead3]

Glad someone feels that way

[@michaelkaplan22b]

Having grown up with the show, I never liked the 1961 movie - except for the extraordinary opening sequence which I used to show my architecture students as a perfect representation of the NYC street. I was hoping Spielberg would shoot this in 3D (think Wim Wenders' Pina), but that's too much to wish for.

[@eldiran2]

I agree. The play is MUCH MORE POWERFUL than the bland film. I hope Spielberg gets it right thsi time.

[@michaelkaplan22b]

Translations of stage musicals to the screen are difficult, likely because of cinema technology: close-ups, camera movement, editing. I can think of a few exceptions: "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," thanks to Richard Lester's brilliant direction and clever editing; "Kiss Me Kate," as it was largely set on the stage, and shot in 3D; "Jesus Christ Superstar," so outrageous that it kind of works. Musicals created for the screen fare much better: "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," "Singin' in the Rain," "The Band Wagon," for example.

[@eldiran2]

@@michaelkaplan22b True,--I studied Film so I know all the points you brought up. . MY favorite film musicals are "Oliver" (thankfully directed by a Brit, and one known for Drama, and NOT an American, who surely would have 'sugared' it up) and 'Cabaret', changed significantly from the stage production., but drected by one of its originators, Fosse. My problem with WSS is that it toned down the vibrancy and edge of the play (the creator of the play's 'look', choreographer Jerome Robbons, quit early on in filmmaking for this very reason). Even if I did NOT know thw play, the film doesn't work--it is dated--but for the worng reasons. BTW, "Superstar" for me, was an interesting disaster as a film, though the concept they came up with--actors putting it on in the desert--was a clever one, but they emphasized the 'hippiness' too much.' The film of 'Hair' was another miscalculation.

[@michaelkaplan22b]

@@eldiran2 Interesting that Fosse's name comes up. He was one of the supporting players in "Kiss Me Kate," and his choreography for one of the sequences in "From This Moment On" launched his choreographic career. And ... you've GOT to see this film in 3D to fully appreciate it. I threw in "Jesus Christ" because it was filmed just outside the town in Israel I lived in, and many of the extras were from the town. Aside from its location in archeological ruins, and the stunning opening with Israeli air force jets flying overhead, I agree that, overall, the film was not very good. BTW it will be interesting to see how "Hamilton" translates to the screen.

[@garydubois7674]

Don't understand people not liking the original film. I thought it was wonderful. In spite of the lip syncing I thought all the actors were perfect. I'm dubious about the remake especially since one of the main creative forces behind the original, Jerome Robbins, is no longer with us. Wish the new cast and crew all the best but good luck recreating Robbins electric choreography.

[@BucyKalman]

The Jets in the 2021 cast (in no particular order): Riff - Mike Faist Ice - Kyle Coffman Action- Sean Harrison Jones Diesel - Kevin Csolak Baby John- Patrick Higgins Anybodys - Iris Menas A-Rab - Jess LeProtto Snowboy- Myles Elrick Tiger - Julian Elia Balkan - Kyle Allen Mouthpiece - Ben Cook Big Deal - John Micheal Fiumara Numbers - Harrison Coll Little Molly - Daniel Patrick Russell Skink - Garrett Hawe All of the above actually have lines in the 2021 movie except for Little Molly and Skink, I think.

[@sandrabraman9442]

Tony & Maria... beautiful chemistry!!

[@albertdiner]

I would have preferred a filmed version by Spielberg of the operetta CANDIDE by Leonard Bernstein based on VOLTAIRE.

[@davidh9844]

Rita Moreno, hands down, stole that movie! George Chakiris comes in second. The most Puerto Rican looking Greek guy in America.

[@ericechols5918]

Don't try to fix what's not broken!!! Original West side story movie forever, no doubt. Facts!!!

[@edsherman6095]

Here's my review for anyone who might be interested. It is a bit long. Some spoilers included. Yesterday we went as a whole family to see Stephen Spielberg's remake of the classic musical West Side Story. I had heard good reviews of it, but I have to admit I had some degree of skepticism going to it. I now have to credit Spielberg with a rare accomplishment. His film is one of those rare things in cinema where the remake of a classic film at the very least is equal to the original. It is a triumph on many different levels:- 1. The original was brilliant and beautiful. Leonard Bernstein's music and Steven Sondheim's lyrics can't be matched. But it was a film of the 1950s, with the distinctive "feel" of the films of the period. I grew up then, so I still enjoy them as they are, but recognise they are dated. Spielberg succeeded in doing two things- he captured well the feel of the 50s in the film, but it doesn't have the "feel" of a 50s film. It is a film of 2021 about the 50s, as it should be. To successfully hold those 2 things together is remarkable. 2. Rachel Zegler had the huge challenge of taking on an iconic role originally done by an iconic actress of the 50s, Natalie Wood. She made the part beautifully her own and just shone as Maria. It's hard to imagine the part could have been done better. All of the other actors were wonderful, but in many ways hers was the greatest challenge. It was a wonderful triumph. And it was lovely to see Rita Moreno, the original Anita, take on the role as the widow of Doc, playing a motherly role to Tony. Spielberg has her sing the haunting "There's a Place for Us", instead of Tony and Maria. I think that was a risk, but she carried it beautifully. 3. One of the powerful scenes of the story is Sharks and the Jets heading towards their fateful rumble. Their songs interweave with mutual recrimination "They began it" (the Jets), "they began it" (the Sharks). But heartbreakingly yet beautifully woven into it Tony and Maria reprise their Tonight. It was powerful in the original. Spielberg had the wisdom to let the core of it stand as it was, yet with his own directorial touches. 3. One concern I had was what Spielberg would do to the music. It can be a temptation to update it. But as in the above example, he showed wisdom in letting the songs stand on their own. Not that he did a wooden imitation. There is his own unique directorial setting and staging of their scenes, but the music is faithful to the original without being imitative. Again, a true accomplishment. Of course much credit for that belongs to the performers. 4. He gives a broader social context for the conflict between the gangs. The West Side is being torn down in order to build the Lincoln Center. The gangs' turf is disappearing. The hostility between the gangs is exacerbated by this displacement. And it is here that he has created a film with a power to speak to some of the issues of America (and beyond) today. The gang violence is fueled by racism, but on both sides, Puerto Rican vs. White, one generation of immigrants vs the next. In the song America the women sing of how life is better in 'America', and have a quarrel with the men about it. Women- "Life is alright in America" Men- "If you can fight in America" Women- "Fight for your rights in America" Men- "If you're all white in America." We see the beauty and potential hope in the love of Tony and Maria, and the tragedy that ensues. I can't recommend this film highly enough. Few musicals have the beauty and passion of the music and songs. The acting is superb. It is a triumph for Spielberg on many levels. He took the challenge of remaking a classic, and has created a film that I suspect will become a classic in its own right.

[@Tark75ifty]

Ed Sherman: Your review is interesting. I too saw the Spielberg film and I loved it. But there is one thing that must be understood, the WSS 2021 is not a remake of 1961, it is an adaptation of the Broadway play in 1957. The two films should not be compared. Spielberg managed a remarkable adaptation and remained as close as possible to the Broadway play. What is incredible is that the musical filmed under the presidency of D.Trump is timeless, the themes of the film are still relevant. A success thanks to the genius of S. Spielberg.

[@tiffsaver]

I don't think Spielberg has ever made musical before, has he? In any case, I can't wait to see what he can do with this Broadway classic. It will be hard to surpass. Since he passed away in 1988, I'd like to share a bittersweet memory about Tucker Smith, the tall, handsome lad who played "Ice" performing the song, "Cool," in the movie. Working on a movie set one day, I noticed an extra who was portraying the bartender in one scene. Even though he had a closely-trimmed beard, he seemed vaguely familiar to me. Although he had no lines, he was dressed immaculately, and as an older man, was still incredibly handsome. But I couldn't shake the feeling that "I had seen him somewhere," so I just walked up to him, introduced myself, and asked him, "where??" He asked me if I'd ever seen the movie version of West Side Story, and I answered "yes." That's when he told me who he was, and I very nearly fell over. I'm a very frank person (sometimes extremely so), so I just asked him why I'd never seen him in any other film since his breakout role. Since I was honest, he was, too. He told me that even though most of the actors and dancers in the movie were gay, he felt no compunction about "coming out" during the production, something no actor would ever do in the early sixties, as being openly gay could easily destroy your career. But he was unafraid, when he should have been. According to him, coming out so publicly virtually ruined his film career, reducing him to even taking extra work and stand in jobs just to pay the bills. While I applauded his courage, alas, the decision cost him his entire career. RIP, Tucker Smith, sadly, ahead of your time.

[@lesleeherschfus707]

The choreography by Jerome Robbins was classic. That’s what I’m going to be checking out.

[@jackienaiditch7965]

You and me both.

[@Ruloathesome]

The choreography from the song Cool can't possibly be beaten.

[@FreyaF...]

Russ Tamblyn also played the role of Gideon in the movie Seven Brides For Seven Brothers. What a movie!!

[@marknewton6984]

And what a talent!

[@nataliapola8836]

I'm so glad and excited that actual Latinos and Latinas are going to play the Hispanic roles, excluding Rita Moreno. They just put brown face on Caucasian actors and actresses.

[@sharigreen9252]

Does anyone remember the recent remake of Ben-Hur? A real bomb. Imagine trying to remake the 1959 classic which was a remake of the 1925 silent version (a classic in it's own right). I rest my case.

[@buckroo8424]

Yes! I saw the remake of Ben Hur and it was so-I Bad! I couldn’t believe how bad it was!

[@soniaburgos901]

Nothing like the 1st west side story. Never get tired of watching the movie. My best actress Anita, Maria, Tony and Bernado

[@sin-a-mintgiggles4024]

This film is FULL of professional Broadway performers who are well versed in this type of art. Stop the hate. This movie is going to be amazing, with the addition of Moreno as ‘Valentina,’ and the added professionalism of the rest of the cast, we will not be let down. Trust it. Coming from a musical theatre background, when I heard Spielberg was directing this, THAT made me nervous at first. Looks like he will do the 1961 film and Broadway justice, for sure!

[@dasc0yne]

Rita Moreno was incomparable. To fill her shoes it isn't about singing or dancing ability or experience - it is all about realizing an intangible and rare charisma on film that cannot be taught. Some people simply have it and some people don't. It's like in singing. A talented but untrained singer with imperfect technique might completely own a song with their natural phrasing in ways that most professionals can never capture. Rita Moreno in her acting, singing and dancing brought that in spades. No offense, but this new actor has her work cut out for her and I'm admittedly 100% skeptical that she will even compare. Rita made this role her own from the start.

[@mickeymouse2able]

Can't wait!!! Rita Moreno! She's so cute! Saw her at The Cafe Carlyle. Fascinating lady

[@Tark75ifty]

Spielberg's W.S.S. should not be considered a remake of the movie 1961, but a new adaptation of the 1957 Broadway play. And Spielberg is more faithful to the original piece. Additionally, it uses real Hispanic actors to play the Puerto Ricans. The casting is incredible, especially the roles of Anita( Ariana Devos), Bernardo(David Alvarez), Maria(Rachel Ziegler), and Riff (Mike Feist) who burst the screen. The '61 film is perfection, we all agree, and I didn't see the point of doing a "West Side story" today. But it's Spielberg who does it and it piqued my curiosity. Frankly, it's a success, I loved it and I invite you to see it urgently if it's not done. Spielberg is genius and the 2021 movie is awe-inspiring. As a French child when I saw this film for the 1st time, it inspired me, as an adult, to visit N.Y. and these west sides.

[@lisalovelace6784]

I loved the original, but cannot wait to see the remake of West Side Story!

[@ddoyle11]

I have no doubt that the folks cast in the remake are certainly talented. I hope the same choreography, music and script are used. But even if all of these align perfectly, there is no way to duplicate the essence of the era in which the original was made. It will be interesting to watch these new artists' interpretation of the classic, but it will be a very different final product. I hope it is a success.

[@l.salisbury1253]

3:22 - "HEY YOU GUYS!!!!"

[@slit282]

I just watched this movie last night and I have to say it was fantastic it was faithful to the source material yet adding new elements that improved to the story the singing and the choreography was definitely up to par to the original definitely worth watching definitely worth watching in the theaters