I remember going to the Orpheum Theater in my hometown of Champaign, Illinois, to see West Side Story. I was nine years old, and it was the first time I could go to the movies with my friends without our parents. We all loved the movie especially when the Puerto Ricans were on the screen. I don’t think any of us had ever met anyone from Puerto Rico, but we identified with them and the way they dressed and danced, and George Chakaris was so good looking. When Anita came on screen our jaws dropped. She was pretty and could dance and we all wanted to be her.

How is West Side Story 2021 different from the originalfilm? Director Steven Spielberg brings realism to the story through language, authenticity, beautiful voices, and great dancing.

I am sure you know the story of the territorial fight between the Sharks (Latino) and the Jets (White) gangs. Never shall they meet or get along. The Jet’s former leader Tony sees Maria (Bernardo, leader of the Sharks sister) at a dance and all hell breaks loose.

There were so many ways this remake of the Oscar winning 1961 film could have gone the road of many other remakes in a bad way. I’m glad to say that it doesn’t. 2021 blends the greatness of the original with the authenticity of the new and created a fresh film that will be seen by generations to come.

Steven Spielberg brought together the right group of people to make sure that the story was told in a more realistic way. Rita Moreno signing on as Executive Producer was a sure way that all hind sights of the original were corrected.

I loved the way Spanish was incorporated into the dialogue as it would be in Latino families without subtitles. Casting Rachel Zegler in her film debut as Maria was right on point. Her voice is amazing, and portrayal of Maria is perfect as the innocent, but smart and strong-willed young lady brings a different touch to the character.

Rachel Zegler – Maria

To be honest I had to get used to Ansel Elgort as Tony. I don’t know what it was, but it took me a while to warm up to him in the role. However, he did win me over by the balcony scene.

Ansel Elgort – Tony

The standout to me is Ariana DeBose as Anita. When she was on screen, she stole the show. Her acting, singing, and dancing was the glue of the film.

Ariana DeBose – Anita

Rita Morena played the role of Valentina. Her story line brings a new layer to the film. She married a white store owner, and their mixed marriage was eventually accepted but the Jets didn’t look at her as being like the “other Puerto Ricans.”  The twist is she sings the song, “A Place for Us,” and it fits so perfectly in the film.

You can’t have West Side Story without great dance but for some reason the choreographer isn’t listed in the credits. The person who created the choreography for the film 2021 film is Justin Peck, a former dancer with New York City Ballet. He deserves to be recognized.

I must mention the 2021 rendition of Officer Krupke is top notch, funny, and fresh.

The 1961 original film West Side Story will still have a special place in my heart, but West Side Story – 2021 has its own place there also.

I’m giving West Side Story – 2021, 4 out of 5 winks of the EYE.

Until next time keep your EYE to the sky!

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