Key Takeaways:
– The revered director Steven Spielberg approached Tony Kushner to adapt the iconic ‘West Side Story’ for modern audiences.
– Kushner was initially apprehensive about the challenge and suggested Spielberg should drop the project.
– Spielberg’s vision and perseverance eventually swayed Kushner, culminating in an Oscar-nominated film.
– The new West Side Story is not merely a remake but a reflection of present societal issues Spielberg aimed to address.
Unfazed by Challenges: Spielberg’s Approach to ‘West Side Story’
Steven Spielberg is no stranger to audacious cinematographic feats. From giving us chills with the iconic shark thriller, Jaws, to thrilling us with the magnificent world of Jurassic Park, Spielberg’s knack is unparalleled. Yet, when Spielberg first proposed his plan to remake ‘West Side Story,’ screenwriter Tony Kushner felt the task was too colossal, even for a director of Spielberg’s caliber.
The Spielberg-Kushner Collaboration: Initial Resistance
The original ‘West Side Story,’ a celebrated product of Jerome Robbins’ 1950s stage musical, paired with the illustrious 1961 Oscar-winning film adaptation, holds a sacred spot in American culture. This made Kushner wary of Spielberg’s intent to craft a version palatable to contemporary audiences. Upon their first discussion about it, Kushner recalls thinking Spielberg was ‘out of his mind’ and expressed his hope that Spielberg would drop the idea. However, Spielberg’s tenacity paid off, leading to the creation of the updated, Oscar-nominated film.
The Spielberg-Kushner Alliance Eventually Flourishes
Despite Kushner’s initial trepidation, Spielberg’s passion for the project eventually swayed him. Kushner was not only impressed by Spielberg’s commitment to the film but also his unique ability to identify and highlight societal tensions. Spielberg was committed to ensuring ‘West Side Story’ was not merely a remake but a commentary on present day challenges like racial tension and the importance of inclusive multiculturalism.
Spielberg’s Determination Results in a Contemporary Masterpiece
The reception for ‘West Side Story,’ despite its mediocre box office performance, attests to Spielberg’s artistic vision and continued film prowess. Garnering much critical acclaim, Spielberg’s passion shines brightly in this modern retelling of a beloved classic. The film owes its success to the combination of Spielberg’s tenacious direction, Kushner’s expert writing, and the sterling performances of its lead stars, Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort.
Unique Traits of Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’
What sets Spielberg’s take on ‘West Side Story’ apart is his commitment to address salient societal issues. The film isn’t just a retelling of Shakespeare’s tragic Romeo and Juliet; it’s a timely exploration of race, bigotry, and inclusion. It’s the relevance of the story to today’s society, paired with Spielberg’s unwavering dedication, that led to Kushner’s final agreement to pen the screenplay.
‘West Side Story:’ A Testament to Spielberg’s Talent
The renewed ‘West Side Story’ may not have echoed past box-office numbers, but it did gain wide critical acclaim. The film is a testament to Spielberg’s consistent prowess in creating poignant films that resonate with contemporary audiences. It signifies Spielberg’s enduring commitment to topical issues and serves as a brilliant example of his filmmaking genius.
Now, Spielberg’s ‘West Side Story’ is more than just a reboot or remake. It’s a reflection of his commitment to social issues contemporaneously significant and an emblem of his incredible talent as a filmmaker. The Oscar-nominated film can be streamed on Disney+ for those longing for a taste of Spielberg’s magic. Readers are encouraged to see the film and appreciate Spielberg’s unique application of his cinematic genius to create this modern masterpiece.
