There’s a lot to love about the 1961 version of West Side Story, but according to Rita Moreno, the upcoming remake directed by Steven Spielberg is set to take things to a whole new level. Rita, who won an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and a Grammy for her role as Anita in the original film, recently shared her excitement about the project during an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly. She spoke at the Bronx Children’s Museum Gala on May 7, and her words are nothing short of electrifying for fans of the classic musical.
Why Spielberg's Version Is a Game-Changer
Rita Moreno, the EGOT-winning legend, couldn’t help but gush about Spielberg's vision for the remake. "Steven is meticulous, and he’s taking care of all the mistakes in the original film," she said. "That’s what makes this version so special." For decades, fans have debated the casting and cultural nuances of the original, but this time, Spielberg is ensuring authenticity shines through every detail.
One of the most significant changes? "I’m thrilled that the boys who are supposed to be Latino are actually Latino," Rita emphasized. "And the young people who were supposed to be young are genuinely young." It’s a refreshing approach that aligns with the story’s heart and soul. This time around, the iconic role of Anita will be played by Ariana DeBose, a powerhouse performer best known for her work in Hamilton. The casting choice alone is enough to have fans buzzing with anticipation.
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A New Star Is Born
If there’s one name you need to know heading into this remake, it’s Rachel Zegler. The 18-year-old newcomer will take on the iconic role of Maria, originally played by the legendary Natalie Wood. Rita raves about Rachel’s talent: "She’s 18 years old, with a voice that could stop traffic. It’s breathtaking." But that’s not all—Rita also praised the brilliant mind behind the script, Tony Kushner, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright known for Angels in America. "What a stew!" Rita exclaimed, capturing the perfect blend of talent and creativity that’s going into this project.
The All-Star Cast
The ensemble cast of Spielberg's West Side Story is nothing short of spectacular. Joining Rachel and Ariana are Ansel Elgort as Tony (originally played by Richard Beymer), Corey Stoll as Lieutenant Schrank (originally played by Simon Oakland), and Maddie Ziegler, Sia’s muse, adding her unique flair to the mix. With such a dynamic lineup, it’s no wonder the film is generating so much buzz. The release date is set for December 18, 2020, and fans are counting down the days.
Rita Moreno, who’s receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, calls Spielberg’s remake "a dream come true that I never even had." She’s stepping into a brand-new role, Valentina, and she’s as excited about it as anyone. "Who could dream of that?" she wonders aloud, her enthusiasm contagious. It’s clear that this project means the world to her, and she’s thrilled to be part of it.
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