In time for Christmas, Steven Spielberg tackles a new adaptation of the 1957 musical “West Side Story.”
‘New adaptation’ is probably the right word to use, as many consider the original 1961 movie—which, according to EW won a staggering 10 Oscars—is likely something a director wouldn’t want to step on with the dreaded words ‘remake.’ The story of Tony and Maria, original penned as a Broadway play by Arthur Laurents, is as timeless as it gets and has inspired countless songs, inspirations, and even influence in music videos. An adaptation screams homage. And that can only be a good thing.
Some additional points add credibility to the project, most notably that, as also reported in EW, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tony Kushner will work to adapt the screenplay from Laurents’ original work. Audience members will doubtless be looking to the music, sets, and cast, all of which many consider irreplaceable parts of cinematic history.
The Cast
As one might expect, the cast is big and bold. The two top roles, Tony and Maria will be played by Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler. Joining them is: Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez, Rita Moreno, Brian d’Arcy James, Corey Stoll, Mike Faist, Josh Andrés Rivera, Iris Menas, David Aviles Morales, Carlos E. Gonzalez, Ricky Ubeda, Andrei Chagas, and many more.
Of note, Ansel Elgort is no stranger to cinema, appearing in the “Divergent” series as well as the well-received “Baby Driver,” and Rachel Zegler is a newcomer with several projects in post-production.
Of Inspiration, and More…
Ariana DeBose as Anita and David Alvarez as Bernardo in 20th Century Studios’ “West Side Story.” Photo by Niko Tavernise.
What should be inspiring for fans of the 1961 classic is Spielberg’s past filmography and his inspiration(s) for directing “West Side Story.” The renowned director has recently stated to Yahoo News that when he was 10 years old he heard the “West Side Story” soundtrack and “it never went away.” But he additionally states that the finer points of the film—namely the battle between unlike-minded people—is something that is apropos, even today. Spielberg wants to explore those divisions on a broader scale, and we couldn’t be happier.
There’s also the fact, of course, that Spielberg often wears the gentlest gloves when handling sacred material. No, I’m not thinking of films like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” or “Jurassic Park” here. But rather films like “Schindler’s List,” films where trampling on hallowed-ground was a near impossibility during filming. However, it’s well-known that the director—amidst the possibility for massive earnings—refused to take a salary for “Schindler’s List,” calling it ‘blood money.’ He instead used the money to create the Shoah Foundation.
This is to say in Speilberg’s hands, “West Side Story” has the chance to be treated wholly and with respect. And, if the teaser trailer is any indication, it looks to be a winner. This writer, for one, is very keen to see it indeed.
Release Date
“West Side Story” is set for a December 10th, 2021 release in United States and the UK. Follow The Movie Buff for full review upon the film’s release.
Do you plan to see the film? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
