West Side Story is getting a remake for the next generation! The OG movie premiered in 1961 and tells the story of forbidden love and rivalry between two teenage gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. The first film is an adaptation of the 1957 Broadway musical of the same name, which was inspired by Romeo and Juliet. If you’ve never seen it, prepare for a lot of drama and dancing!
Steven Spielberg is directing the upcoming film and the first trailer drops during the Oscars on April 25. It’s def going to become one of the most-anticipated movies of the year, so keep scrolling for everything you need to know about the new West Side Story.
Why is there going to be *another* West Side Story?
Glad you asked! Well, I’m guessing there’s a 50-50 chance that you’ve ever seen the 1961 film version. It’s a classic but could also use a fresh update à la the 2018 version of A Star Is Born. In case you’ve been living under a rock, then you know that Mr. Spielberg is the *best* of the best. So, he’s adapting the new version for Disney.
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“I’m so happy that we’ve assembled a cast that reflects the astonishing depth of talent in America’s multifaceted Hispanic community,” he said in a press release. “I am in awe of the sheer force of the talent of these young performers, and I believe they’ll bring a new and electrifying energy to a magnificent musical that’s more relevant than ever.”
Speaking of, who’s starring in the new version?
Here’s where it gets really fun… Ansel Elgort is playing Tony and newcomer Rachel Zegler will portray Maria! Rachel also has a super-cool story about how she landed the part too. Steven tweeted that he was casting for West Side Story and she submitted videos of herself singing (nbd). She was chosen from over 30,000 applicants (!!) for the role of Maria.
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“I am so thrilled to be playing the iconic role of Maria alongside this amazing cast,” she revealed about being cast in the film. “West Side Story was the first musical I encountered with a Latina lead character. As a Colombian-American, I am humbled by the opportunity to play a role that means so much to the Hispanic community.”
David Alvarez, Mike Faist, Ariana DeBose, Corey Stoll, and Brian d’Arcy James also star in the movie.
Well, are any of the original cast members in the movie?
Yes! The iconic Rita Moreno appeared in the original 1961 film (and won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Anita) and will play a different supporting role. “From our earliest discussions, we wanted to include Rita Moreno in our production,” Steven explained. “Her Anita is one of the greatest musical performances ever filmed, and a personal favorite of mine. We created an original role for her, and we feel beyond fortunate that Rita will bring her extraordinary gifts as an actress, as well as her deep understanding of West Side Story to this production as an executive producer.”
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She’s just as excited to join the cast of the remake. “Never in my wildest dreams did I see myself revisiting this seminal work,” she said in a statement. “And to be asked by Steven Spielberg to participate is simply thrilling! Then to work together with the brilliant playwright, Tony Kushner—what a glorious stew! I am tingling!”
So, when will West Side Story be released?
Ah, last but not least. West Side Story will premiere on Friday, December 10. And you’ll be able to see it in theaters! Until then, make sure to stream the soundtrack, so you can sing along… I know I will.
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