West Side Story First Reactions Praise the Classic Musical Reimagining as Spectacular

Following the film's premiere in New York City on Monday evening, the first reactions to 20th Century Studios' "West Side Story" are starting to stream in. Those who attended the screening praised filmmaker Steven Spielberg's rendition of the iconic musical on social media.

Maria and Tony are played by Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort in this updated rendition, and their ill-fated romance stokes the flames of the violent rivalry between local street gangs the Sharks and the Jets. Ariana DeBose plays Anita, David Alvarez plays Bernardo, and Mike Faist plays Riff. Rita Moreno, who won an Academy Award for her portrayal as Anita in the 1961 film adaptation of the musical, reprises her role in the remake and also serves as an executive producer. Tony Kushner ("Angels in America") wrote the remake, which is Spielberg's first full-length musical.

Brent Lang, Variety's executive editor of film and media, described the film as "bold and stirring." He also criticized Elgort's lead performance before praising the entire production as a possible Oscar contender.

Steven Spielberg’s #westsidestory is bold and stirring. The best parts are Tony Kushner’s book and the dramatic reimagining of classic numbers such as “America” and “Somewhere.” Ansel was a bit flat, but the rest of the cast is great and it feels like an #Oscars contender. pic.twitter.com/PAYJcoVAfZ

— Brent Lang (@BrentALang) November 30, 2021

Robert Daniels, a film critic, began his positive review by expressing his amazement at how much he enjoyed the film. After raising a few technical concerns, he praised DeBose, Moreno, and Alvarez for their efforts.

A shocker: I didn’t dislike Spielberg’s #WestSideStory. It’s not a patch on the original (what is?). People’s skin are rendered way too pale. And the VFX is jarring. But Ariana DeBose and her evocative eyes were incredible. So were Rita Moreno and David Alvarez. Ansel? Eh. pic.twitter.com/OwEPlVuv4L

— Robert Daniels (@812filmreviews) November 30, 2021