West Side Story (1961)

West Side Story: Directed by Jerome Robbins, Robert Wise. With Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn, Rita Moreno. Two youngsters from rival New York City gangs fall in love, but tensions between their respective friends build toward tragedy.

“Viewing WEST SIDE STORY last night on TCM for the first time in years, I realized what an impact this made on film musicals with its innovative use of dazzling choreography and high-flying camera-work that made it a cinematic experience rather than a stage-bound one.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eRobert Wise and Jerome Robbins directed this poignant and powerful musical with a talented cast of performers–Natalie Wood at her dewy-eyed loveliest as the Juliet-like heroine and Richard Beymer doing his best to bring some heart-felt passion to the role of the Romeo-like Tony, but heu0026#39;s too refined to be believable as an ex-gang member. At least he does have some chemistry with Natalie and obviously put his heart and soul into his performing. The voice dubbing for both is done skillfully, but I would have preferred a stronger voice for Beymer.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eRita Moreno (not Chita Rivera as another commentator named her) and George Chakiris are beyond reproach as Anita and Bernardo–and all of the gang members do superb footwork and acting as the Jets/Sharks. Most impressive is the actor playing Ice (Tucker Smith) who figures prominently in the finger-snapping u0026quot;Coolu0026quot; number. u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThis is the quintessential 1960s musical with some expert choreography (the rooftop version of u0026quot;Americau0026quot; is a standout) and stellar work from everyone in the cast. Leonard Bernstein must have been proud of this film version of his Broadway musical. Robert Wiseu0026#39;s firm control in blending the music with the u0026quot;booku0026quot; is craftsmanship at its finest.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eBy all means, a musical that deserved all of its Oscars!!”