Ed Sherman

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. There was much more, but apparently I can't post something so long.