The 93rd Academy Awards was light on actual footage of the past year’s nominated films. But the show’s commercials still offered moviegoers a glimpse at what we can expect when we return to theaters. That included the first trailer for Steven Spielberg‘s remake of the 1961 classic (and 10-time Oscar winner) West Side Story. And it looks tailor made to watch on the biggest screen.
Spielberg’s take on the beloved 1957 Broadway musical features a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize- and Tony-winner Tony Kushner. The playwright also serves as an executive producer on the movie. It explores “the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City.” But fans should expect a few changes to keep it fresh. One thing the original movie didn’t have: an ethically diverse and story-accurate cast.
Ansel Elgort stars as Tony and Rachel Zegler stars opposite him as María. They’re joined by Ariana DeBose (Anita), David Alvarez (Bernardo), Mike Faist (Riff), Josh Andrés Rivera (Chino). Ana Isabelle (Rosalía), Corey Stoll (Lieutenant Schrank), and Brian d’Arcy James (Officer Krupke). Rita Moreno, who won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar for playing Anita in the original film, returns as Valentina, the owner of the corner store where Tony works. Moreno also serves as an executive producer on the movie.
20th Century Studios
The film also boasts a great creative team behind the camera. That includes Tony winner Justin Peck served as choreographer. Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor and GRAMMY winner Gustavo Dudamel scored the film, which David Newman (Anastasia) arranged. Another Tony Award-winning composer, Jeanine Tesori (Fun Home, Thoroughly Modern Millie), supervised vocals. And Grammy nominee Matt Sullivan (Beauty and the Beast, Chicago), worked as executive music producer.
Whether or not Spielberg’s version takes home 10 Oscars next year doesn’t matter; we’ll just be glad to see it on the big screen.
West Side Story dances into theaters on December 10.
