Review of West Side Story (1961) by Ben L — 15 Dec 2016

I'm definitely a fan of musicals, but I have always had issues with West Side Story. For one thing the music and dance numbers are somewhat playful, but they are tackling serious subject matter. It just strikes me as comical when these tough gang members start leaping and dancing and singing.

I shouldn't be chuckling when lives are on the line. There are a few iconic songs and engaging dance numbers that I enjoy, but it seems for every good song there is also a dud. Another flaw in the film is Natalie Wood, who struggles to affect me in any emotional way.

I don't think she is a bad actress, but it seems like she is working so hard on faking the Puerto Rican accent, that properly conveying emotion is asking too much. Finally, I have difficulty with West Side Story simply because I'm not a fan of the Romeo & Juliet story.

While I can accept some "love at first site" stories I usually crave a slower build-up to the relationship after that initial spark. In this film, similar to the Shakespeare play it is based on, after one quick glance these two seem ready to be married or even sacrifice their lives for one another.

I don't think West Side Story is a bad movie, and I understand the love for it. There are flashes of greatness, and the concept is intriguing, but I don't foresee myself watching it again if I can avoid it.