West Side Story with Steven Spielberg and Damien Chazelle (Ep. 341)
Dec 24, 2021
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Steven Spielberg and Damien Chazelle discuss the making of West Side Story, including the cast bonding and tragic storyline. They explore the balance of fantastical elements and realism in the film, updating the classic musical for a new generation while maintaining its timeless elements, and the process of setting up shots and determining the color palette.
Steven Spielberg discusses the challenges and joys of working with mostly inexperienced actors and the collaborative process with choreographer Justin Peck.
Spielberg emphasizes the delicate balance between realism and fantastical elements in West Side Story, creating a big-screen experience while reflecting current conversations around xenophobia, love, hate, and race.
Deep dives
The Making of West Side Story
In this podcast episode, director Steven Spielberg discusses the making of West Side Story, a beloved story of forbidden love set in 1950s New York City. Spielberg shares his personal connection to the musical, dating back to his childhood when he memorized all the songs. He explains why it took so long for him to tackle a musical and why West Side Story was the perfect choice. Spielberg also discusses the challenges and joys of working with a cast of mostly inexperienced actors and the collaborative process with choreographer Justin Peck. The episode provides insights into the production design, costume choices, and the innovative mixing of the iconic score. Overall, it offers a glimpse into the passion and dedication that went into reimagining this timeless musical for a new generation.
Balancing Realism and Fantastical Elements
Spielberg discusses the delicate balance between realism and fantastical elements in West Side Story. He emphasizes the importance of capturing the intimate, handmade, and personal nature of the story while also creating a big-screen experience. The film aims to provide a sense of escapism, but also reflect the current conversations around xenophobia, love, hate, and race. Spielberg credits the collaboration with choreographer Justin Peck and his team, highlighting the fresh-facedness and enthusiasm of the young cast. He also touches on the production design and the efforts to recreate 1957 New York City, striking a balance between remaining true to the original period and capturing a timeless quality.
Collaboration and Intimacy on Set
The podcast delves into the collaborative nature of making a musical and the sense of intimacy that was fostered on the West Side Story set. Spielberg emphasizes the importance of rehearsals, which lasted as long as the principal photography, allowing the cast to develop relationships and find their characters. He credits choreographer Justin Peck as his artistic partner, mentioning the constant exchange of ideas and adjustments to choreography based on camera angles and shots. Spielberg also discusses the emotional challenges of shooting live musical numbers and the infectiousness and joy that music brings to the filmmaking process. He expresses pride in the close-knit bond that formed among the cast and crew, creating a sense of togetherness and support throughout the production.
The Power of Music and Sound Design
The podcast episode highlights the significance of music and sound design in West Side Story. Spielberg praises conductor Gustavo Dudamel for bringing the musical score to life and creating a personal connection with the orchestral musicians. The production sound and mixing, done by Andy Nelson, enhanced the audience's experience, combining the fantastical elements of a musical with the grounded realism of the film. The collaboration with composer David Newman allowed for a new musical score that honored the original tapestries of Leonard Bernstein. Janusz Kaminski's lighting played a crucial role in establishing the film's color palette, capturing the mood and tone of each scene. Overall, the episode explores the artistic choices made in the realm of music and sound to create a complete cinematic experience.
Director Steven Spielberg discusses his new film, West Side Story, with fellow director Damien Chazelle in a Q&A at the DGA theater in Los Angeles.
The film retells the story of Tony and Maria, two teenagers from different ethnic backgrounds and rival gangs who fall in love in 1950s New York City. But tensions between their respective friends set them on a path toward tragedy.
Please note: spoilers are included.
See photos and a summary of this event below:
https://www.dga.org/Events/2022/January2022/WestSideStory_QnA_1221.aspx
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