West Side Story

[bill_schubert]

I think those songs might catch on!

When I was doing summer theater in New Hampshire we used to sing the Jets theme on the way from apartment to the theater building.  Truly nerds.  But we knew all the words and could sing and dance mostly in unison.  I've never seen the live production, only the original movie.  No spit or sweat.

Same here.  No spit or sweat but lots of nice closeups.  The trade off.

The movie is a bushel full of Oscar nominations.  Leads, half the supporting cast is worthy, costume, one of the most amazing sets I've seen, dance, on and on.  Here is a quote from the choreographer that gives an idea of the level of talent in the film:

“No body doubling, no face replacement, no cutting away to hide anything,” he says with a wide smile. “It’s all very authentically danced. We had to fight so hard for that and make sure everyone was on the level to perform that way so they didn’t feel exposed.”

Everyone dances their own dances, acts their own scenes and sings their own songs.  

That, in itself is somewhat of a miracle.  But on top of that it is some of the best dancing, some of the most beautiful dancing and exceptional acting.  

So there's no spit and not much sweat but the production and place and amazing group of artists more than make up for it.

Dana's comment:  So we're going to see it again tomorrow, right?

Comments

[somedayseattle.livejournal.com]

Love the original film. I have seen it on stage a few time, at various levels of professionalism. From high school to off broadway. I loved all of them! Looking forward to seeing this.

[mrdreamjeans.livejournal.com]

Now, you make me want to see the new film! I played Officer Kruptke in a big production in Houston in 1991. It wasn't my favorite musical because I was in non-singing comic role. I got great reviews for little time on stage.

I may have to see it when I get to Texas next weekend.

[lenine2.livejournal.com]

I'm glad you liked it! I'm going to see if I can catch a matinee this weekend.

[one-raido.livejournal.com]

I love the original movie.

My uncle (dad's half brother, who is only nine years older than me), played Tony in the high school play.

[siglinde99.livejournal.com]

Nice! I heard an interview yesterday with the guy who plays Bernardo (a Canadian) and now I want to go see the show.