WEST SIDE STORY (1961) The Review

A stunning, updated musical version of "Romeo and Juliet," taking place in New York's Puerto Rican jungle with the two warring factions being two rival gangs:"Jets" vs the "Sharks." Tony (Beymer), who is a Jet, and Maria (Wood), who is the sister of the leader of the Sharks, find each other at a social dance, fall in love, become star-crossed lovers, doomed to tragedy.

The cast includes: Natalie Wood, George Chakiris, Richard Beymer, Rita Moreno, Russ Tamblyn. With Simon Oakland, William Bramley, John Astin, and David Winters.

Winner of 10 Academy Awards (including: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Editing, and Music)

Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins shared the Oscar for direction. Please note that Robbins directed the Broadway play and was responsible for great choreography.

Go to the West Side Story Review