Steven Spielberg's remake of classic musical West Side Story is winning plaudits from early preview screenings. The famed director of E.T. and Schindler's List has re-imagined the Oscar-winning 1961 musical epic, which was itself adapted from Leonard Bernstein and the late Stephen Sondheim's Broadway sensation.
Ansel Elgort is our new Tony and Rachel Zegler our new Maria in this star-crossed, finger-snapping story of love against the odds. As before, the narrative plays out against the backdrop of Manhattan and the battle between rival gangs the Jets and the Sharks. The star of the original movie, Rita Moreno, also makes an appearance. So, what have people been saying about Spielberg's iteration? Here are some reactions, with special praise going towards Zegler and Spielberg's typically handsome visuals.
Steven Spielberg’s #WestSideStory is a TRIUMPH! It's beautiful & brilliantly photographed - a real love letter to NYC w/ a tremendous ensemble cast who truly redefine this classic story for a new generation. Shout outs to @rachelzegler & @ArianaDeBose who CRUSH it in this film. pic.twitter.com/9wJbUJclnV
— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) November 30, 2021
I’m in awe at how phenomenal WEST SIDE STORY is.
— Jake Hamilton (@JakesTakes) November 30, 2021
Steven Spielberg makes it look easy — but every frame of this film is him at the top of his game.
There’s not a misstep — figuratively or literally.
Oh, and @rachelzegler is about to be one of the biggest stars on the planet. pic.twitter.com/9tZ0yZpPBj
Steven Spielberg’s #WestSideStory is stunning. His first musical is without a doubt superior to the 1961 film. The cinematography, music and dancing are amazing, and most importantly, it treats Puerto Ricans & Latinx community with the respect they deserve. Spielberg delivers. pic.twitter.com/3tb7eSvbzM
— Fico (@FicoCangiano) November 30, 2021
If there was an Oscar for Best Choreography, West Side Story would be your frontrunner. But Rita Moreno's "Somewhere" will move you to tears. @RachelZegler's debut is stunning. What a voice and get ready for @ArianaDeBose to blow you away.
— Jazz Tangcay (@jazzt) November 30, 2021
my #WestSideStory review is simply: I can’t wait to see Rachel Zegler and Ariana DeBose’s careers explode after this. They knock it out of the park as Maria and Anita in this beautiful crafted movie pic.twitter.com/FZtlG8vABS
— Nora Dominick (@noradominick) November 30, 2021
If that's got you excited, click here to book your tickets for West Side Story. The movie opens in Cineworld cinemas on 10th December.