Title : West Side Story (1961 Film Soundtrack)
Author : Leonard Bernstein
Release Date : 19921124
Binding : Audio CD
Regular Price : $17.98
Amazon.com Price : $13.99
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Editorial Reviews : Leonard Bernstein's musical update of Romeo and Juliet, with a young Stephen Sondheim's brilliant lyrics, had already galvanized Broadway with its vivid reinvention as a parable of racial intolerance and generational conflict. But director Robert Wise's lavish widescreen presentation broke fresh ground by taking the story to its most impressionable audience, the teenagers who could identify directly with Tony and Maria, and opened up Jerome Robbins's kinetic choreography through bravura camera work. The original soundtrack album was not merely a huge seller but a unique touchstone for an otherwise rock-oriented audience, and its release on CD benefits from an expanded program untenable in its initial LP release, as well as a 20-bit digital transfer. With Richard Beymer, Marni Nixon (Hollywood's vocal doppelgänger of choice, here standing in for Natalie Wood), and Rita Moreno dominating, the show's bounty of terrific songs and exciting instrumental pieces remains an ear-filling treat, mixing operatic passions, tart social commentary, and high comedy. From 'Tonight' to 'One Hand, One Heart,' 'America' to 'Here Come the Jets,' this is a landmark in American musical theatre and film beautifully realized on disc.
Buyer Reviews : This is one of those movie soundtracks that will never die...I am sure that just about everybody is familiar with at least some of the songs. This release has been meticulously remastered with previously unreleased tracks. That alone makes it a must for people who love this musical. The 38 page booklet contains photos from the film, cast information and a 6 page essay on the film and music. 'West Side Story' won 10 Oscars including Best Musical Score and for good reason. Recommended.
