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West Side Story review: Steven Spielberg reimagining the source in a vibrant showcase for its stars



Adapted by playwright Tony Kushner, the film – described as a “re-creation” of the original – takes on a more formidable edge, connecting directly between the slums of 1950s New York with The two gangs fight over their shrinking ground as if their lives depended on it. The concluding and subtle touches, such as no Spanish dialogue subtitles, are also significantly more culturally real than in the era when non-Latinx actors would be cast. important roles.

As an added bonus, the filmmakers included not only Rita Moreno — who won an Oscar for the 1961 film — as a drugstore owner, but cleverly expanded that role in the way she portrayed her. If the purpose is to provide a reminder that the 89-year-old Moreno, winner of every award imaginable, is a national treasure, mission accomplished.

Also, the skeleton of “West Side Story,” which was inspired by Romeo and Juliet, is still very much intact, with a mixture of fun tunes and wonderful romantic ballads by Sondheim and the composer. music by Leonard Bernstein, in its tragic love story at first sight.

Ansel Elgort and newcomer Rachel Zegler play star-crossed Tony and Maria, whose infatuation immediately emerges amid the racial conflict between two gangs: the Sharks, played by her brother Bernardo (David). Alvarez) and Team Jets, long run by Tony. best friend Riff (Mike Faist), who is perplexed by Tony’s desire to leave that brutal life behind.

While the dance moves are muscularly choreographed, Spielberg has played down some of the magic associated with director Robert Wise’s version, a decision evident when Tony and Maria first met at the dance. Back then, the world stopped around them; Here, they discreetly retreat to a quiet place behind the gymnasium.

It’s not surprising that male actors say that women are superior to them. Zegler (who will be following this debut with another iconic role as Snow White) shines positively as Maria, and Ariana DeBose matches Moreno’s shoes as Anita, whose faith in the pursuit of the American dream that Bernardo and his rivals have given up hope of achieving .

Of course, “West Side Story” has remained largely dormant for the intervening decades, with a theatrical revival and more high school productions than anyone can count. However, Spielberg and Kushner had to be careful in crafting a film that stayed true to the original while tinkering with it in ways comparable to variations – some entirely plausible, others are a bit more arbitrary.

The film marks the first time that Spielberg has taken on a musical in his long and rich career, making the effort an opportunity of that level. That he did so for a year by several others, including “In the Heights” and “Clack, Cock… Boom!” reflect how cycles of change and how cravings for content have grown.

In the end, “West Side Story” passed the “why” test and will likely leave fans debating which version they prefer. Even those who argue that a remake is not necessary – reimagining or otherwise – should conclude that there is a place for this.

“West Side Story” opens in US theaters on December 10. The film is rated PG-13.

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