When You’re a Jet Movie, or simply West Side Story, is a classic musical film that tells the story of two rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, as they battle for control of their neighborhood. Set in 1950s New York, the movie is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, with the two lead characters, Tony and Maria, falling in love despite their opposing backgrounds.
The Plot
The movie starts with a prologue that introduces the two gangs and sets the tone for the rest of the story. The Jets, a group of white American boys, and the Sharks, a group of Puerto Rican boys, are at odds with each other and engage in violent confrontations in their neighborhood.
Tony, a former member of the Jets, falls in love with Maria, the sister of the Sharks’ leader. Despite their families’ disapproval and the ongoing gang war, Tony and Maria continue to see each other in secret. However, their love story is cut short when a rumble between the two gangs leads to tragedy.
The Music
The music in When You’re a Jet Movie is a key element of the film’s success. The songs, composed by Leonard Bernstein with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, are catchy and memorable, with classics like “Maria,” “Tonight,” and “America” becoming instant hits. The choreography, by Jerome Robbins, is also a standout feature, with the dance sequences adding to the film’s energy and vibrancy.
The soundtrack has won multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Soundtrack Album and an Oscar for Best Music, Scoring of a Musical Picture.
The Cast
The cast of When You’re a Jet Movie includes some of the most talented actors and actresses of the time. Natalie Wood plays Maria, with Richard Beymer as Tony. The supporting cast includes Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, and Russ Tamblyn, among others.
The performances in the movie are exceptional, with the actors bringing depth and emotion to their roles. Rita Moreno’s portrayal of Anita, the Sharks’ leader’s girlfriend, is particularly noteworthy, earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
The Legacy
When You’re a Jet Movie has had a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring countless adaptations and homages over the years. The movie’s themes of love, gang violence, and prejudice continue to be relevant today, making it a timeless classic.
The film has also won numerous awards, including ten Academy Awards, making it one of the most decorated movies of all time.
Conclusion
When You’re a Jet Movie is a classic musical that has stood the test of time. Its memorable music, talented cast, and timeless themes continue to inspire and entertain audiences today. Whether you’re a fan of musicals or just looking for a great movie to watch, When You’re a Jet Movie is definitely worth checking out.
