watching movies one cup at a time

Truly an American classic. The story of Romeo and Juliet has been told a million different ways in a million different movies. There could be a whole section on Netflix just of star-crossed lovers from rival families/countries/races/sports teams - you name it. This movie takes Romeo and Juliet into New York City in the ’50s, and the two feuding families are replaced by brawling street gangs. The Montagues become the Anglo Jets, led by Riff, and the Capulets become the Puerto Rican Sharks, led by Bernardo. At a dance, Tony, former leader of the Jets and Riff’s best friend, and Maria, Bernardo’s little sister, see each other across the room and it’s love at first sight. With opposition from both sides, they meet secretly and their love grows deeper. However, the gangs are plotting one last rumble, a fight that will finally end the battle for control of the streets. And of course the story then reaches it’s tragic conclusion.

But what really sets this film apart is the outstanding musical numbers. The music and lyrics were done by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim for what was originally a Broadway musical. On film though it really comes alive on the streets of NYC. The opening shot, zooming into New York City and introducing The Jets and The Sharks, is a masterful sequence. And there is a long list of classics in this film like “America,” “Maria,” “I Feel Pretty” and my favorite, “Cool.” Jerome Robbins directed several of the musical scenes and the dynamic camera movements do an excellent job of capturing the energy of the performances. You can really see the profound cultural effect this movie still has even today in it’s influence through commercials, music videos, live performances, and other musicals.

It’s interesting to note that Natalie Wood was chosen to play the Puerto Rican character of Maria. She really doesn’t look very latina and her singing voice had to be dubbed in by another singer. The actress from the Broadway show, Carol Lawrence, was passed over and it caused a bit of controversy at the time. I don’t get hiring non-singers for these roles. Almost the exact same thing happened with My Fair Lady. Julie Andrews was the star of the Broadway production and was passed over for the film in favor of Audrey Hepburn, who couldn’t sing and had her voice dubbed in by another performer. It should be a crime! I understand they want an actor with more of a name, and a Broadway performer is not the same as a movie performer. But still, hiring a Puerto Rican actress that could sing would have made it a more compelling storyline. Still great with Ms. Wood, just not as authentic.

If you have never seen this film, look for it the next time it’s on TCM or rent it soon. It’s a classic.