This 2021 revival of “West Side Story” was incredible on many levels. A rendition of the classic film was well overdue considering the original 1961 film had controversy as multiple of the actors playing Puerto Ricans were actually Caucasian or had no form of Latin or Hispanic descent. 

The performance of Maria was magnificently done by Rachel Zegler. Many people first heard of Zegler from a viral video of her singing “Shallow” by Lady Gaga. Ironically enough, Zegler was  born to be a star as she is now playing one of the most iconic roles in musical history at only 20 years old.  

Zegler’s has a voice that is so angelic it can bring an audience to tears. The actress sings with so much emotion that it made her performance that much more compelling and impactful. Zegler perfectly captured the innocence and sweetness of young love while also being able to portray the negative emotions that love also brings in this movie. 

This film is only the beginning of Zegler’s career which is certainly destined to be filled with so much opportunity and success as she is already set to star in the second installment of the 

Many are familiar with the classic soundtrack from the original movie. Speilberg’s adaptation does a fantastic job of presenting these songs to a new generation of people. The music along with the amazing choreography was an extravagant combination. 

The dancing in this movie was magnificently entertaining and was so important to telling this story that so many people love. The choreography brought so many levels to the movie as each step was clearly meticulously thought out. Ariana DeBose who played the role of Anita, specifically stood out for her amazing dancing skills which is incredibly appropriate as Rita Moreno’s dancing was a large part of Anita’s character from the 1961 film. 

Ariana DeBose brought a new life to Anita with not only her acting skills but also her impeccable dancing. All of DeBose’s dancing performances could take one’s breath away as with her amazing technique and stage presence. Debose is Afro-Latina and plays Anita in a unique, refreshing way while still being the Anita that audiences know and love. 

The cast in general did an incredible job of assuming these iconic roles. However, Ansel Elgort in the role of Tony may not have been the right choice. Elgort is not untalented and has played many roles that so many people love. Nevertheless, It seemed almost inappropriate that Elgort is playing this role after the sexual assault allegations against him that were first brought to light in 2020. 

Although it is important to separate an actor from their performance, it still seemed wrong to keep such a problematic figure in a movie that is supposed to be an adaptation of a movie that made morally wrong choices with their casting in 1961. Even if Elgort did not have allegations against him, Tony could have still been played better as Elgort did not bring the same level of emotion that Zegler brought to the screen. 

Overall, this movie is so vibrant and extravagant while also tear-jerking and heart breaking. It is amazing for a new generation to be able to love and enjoy this movie that is loved by so many.