West Side Story

Synopsis: Love at first sight strikes when young Tony spots Maria at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks -- two rival gangs vying for control of the streets.

Movie Review:

“West Side Story” is directed by Stephen Spielberg and is the remake of the classic iconic 1961 musical that is beloved. This is an incredible remake that updates the original with heart, energetic musical numbers and dancing, and incredible acting by every actor in the film. You can tell Stephen Spielberg was a huge fan of the original movie because every scene feels like you are transported to New York City in 1957; it feels alive and fresh. Ansel Elgort plays Tony the leader of the gang called the Jets and the one that falls in love. He can really sing and dance. The standout of the movie was Rachel Zegler as Maria who falls in love with Tony. She has an incredible singing voice that makes you fall in love with her character as soon as she is introduced on screen. These two main characters have great chemistry in every scene, and I loved watching their relationship unfold. The sub plot with the two rival gang members of the Jets and the Sharks ends in tragedy on both sides. Mike Faist plays Tony’s best friend Riff who wants to start a war with the Sharks, and he is a talented singer and dancer and his friendship with Tony was the heart of the movie. The supporting cast of Arianna DeBose, Rita Moreno, David Alvarez and Corey Stoll were all amazing. This film does feel like a classic Romeo and Juliet story but set in modern times. The only issue that I had was it was a little too long. I loved this film, and it is one of my favorite movies I have seen this year. I am giving “West Side Story” a 4.5/5 stars.

Director: Stephen Spielberg

Cast: Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Maddie Ziegler, Ariana Debose, Mike Faist, David Alvarez with Corey Stoll and Rita Moreno

Runtime: 156 Minutes