West Side Story

A timeless tale of love and rivalry set against the backdrop of New York City.

Critics broadly regard the film as a landmark musical adaptation praised for its direction, Bernstein score, Sondheim lyrics, choreography, cinematography, and emotional power.

• Tony and Maria pursue a secret relationship despite the Jets-Sharks conflict and their families' hostility.
• Gang confrontations, territorial movement, and dances transform Manhattan streets into theatrical battlegrounds.
• The film explicitly adapts Romeo and Juliet into a rivalry between white and Puerto Rican New York gangs.
• Dazzling color, dynamic camera work, production design, and elaborate dance numbers define the film's presentation.

• Romeo and Juliettragic forbidden romance shaped by social division and musical spectacle
• The Umbrellas of Cherbourgstylized musical drama combining romance, dance, racial tension, and urban conflict
• Singin' in the Rainclassic Hollywood musical with heightened choreography, vivid color, and emotionally intense romance
• Fiddler on the Roofromantic musical drama centered on cultural difference, social prejudice, and heartbreaking sacrifice

Directors

Jerome Robbins, Robert Wise

Release Date

1961-12-13

Runtime

153 min

Rating

7.2 / 10 (2126)

What is West Side Story about?

A sweeping New York musical turns a forbidden romance between rival gang communities into a dazzling and devastating modern tragedy.

What is West Side Story like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of West Side Story as brisk, its intensity as strong and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is West Side Story violent?

Only mildly. Ember rates the violence in West Side Story as mild.

What did critics think of West Side Story?

Critics broadly regard the film as a landmark musical adaptation praised for its direction, Bernstein score, Sondheim lyrics, choreography, cinematography, and emotional power.

Which films are like West Side Story?

Films with a similar feel include Romeo and Juliet, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, Singin' in the Rain, and Fiddler on the Roof.

How long is West Side Story?

West Side Story runs 153 minutes.

Where can I watch West Side Story?

In United States, West Side Story streams on Kanopy, Hoopla, YouTube TV, Fandango at Home Free, YouTube Free, Tubi TV.