The Oscars Project: West Side Story (1961)

In this episode, Steve and Jarrod delve into the classic film 'West Side Story,' exploring its musical elements, choreography, and the themes of conflict and cultural commentary. They discuss the film's influence on future musicals, casting choices, and the performances of the actors, particularly focusing on Natalie Wood's role as Maria. The conversation highlights the film's enduring legacy and its reflection of societal issues relevant both in 1961 and today. In this conversation, Jarrod and Steve delve into the themes of 'West Side Story,' exploring the fantasy of star-crossed lovers, the cyclical nature of violence and immigration, and the tragedy of miscommunication. They discuss the film's cinematography, choreography, and the often-overlooked art of editing, highlighting how these elements contribute to the storytelling. The conversation culminates in reflections on the film's dark ending and its implications, as well as a look ahead to future films they plan to explore together.

Find Jarrod: https://www.youtube.com/@thefantasythinker

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to West Side Story

05:59
Themes of Conflict and Boundaries

11:54
Influence on Future Musicals

18:01
Character Performances and Legacy

26:01
The Fantasy of Star-Crossed Lovers

32:17
Cinematography and Choreography in Film

39:25
The Evolution of Film Techniques

45:44
Looking Ahead: Future Films to Explore

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