Movie spotlight
West Side Stories: The Making of a Classic
As the world prepares to celebrate the 60th anniversary of West Side Story in 2017, dancer Bruno Tonioli and broadcaster Suzy Klein go in search of the true stories behind the inception of this classic show. For the first time on television, they hear first-hand from those involved in the show when it opened on Broadway in September 1957, including Sondheim himself, producer Hal Prince and original cast members from both show and movie, including Chita Rivera Carol Lawrence and Rita Moreno. With the BBC Symphony Orchestra and specially cast singers, we re-live some of the wonderful music and, in the company of Suzy and Bruno, we discover how West Side Story placed the 1950s phenomena of racial tension and teenage gangs centre stage to create a hit that changed musical theatre forever.
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary delves into the creation and enduring legacy of the iconic 1961 film 'West Side Story.' It explores the groundbreaking artistic collaborations between its visionary creators and examines how the film tackled complex social issues through song and dance. The film also highlights the challenges faced during production and the lasting impact it has had on cinema and musical theater.
Critical Reception
The documentary was well-received by critics for its thorough research and insightful exploration of the beloved film's genesis. Audiences appreciated the behind-the-scenes look at a cinematic masterpiece, particularly the interviews with key figures involved in its creation.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its in-depth look at the artistic process behind 'West Side Story.'
Appreciated for shedding light on the historical context and social commentary of the original film.
Commended for its comprehensive interviews with the musical's creators and collaborators.
Google audience: Google user reviews are not specifically available for this documentary, but general sentiment indicates appreciation for its historical and artistic insight into the creation of the 1961 film.
Fun Fact
The documentary features archival footage and interviews that reveal the intense creative debates and compromises that shaped both the stage musical and the subsequent film adaptation of 'West Side Story.'
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources