Hey Stage32'ers, I just watched part of the Westside Story remake. I have some thoughts. Though, what I am really curious about, is when would you or what would make you remake a popular IP?
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The '61 version is my favorite movie musical, no question, and that's why I was so apprehensive when I heard Spielberg was remaking it. All my apprehension disappeared once I saw this film in a theater. He and Kushner managed to delve deeper into the characters, the gangs' place in the world and the reality of their situations. As it follows the same plot as both the original musical (and film), I paid particular attention to the changes and updates. For the most part, I feel Spielberg has made a better film than the Wise/Robbins original. I care more for Tony and Maria's happiness and, as with all tragedies, I wish things had gone different for them in the end. I cannot wait to see this again.
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We have discussed doing a stage show on this movie....I don't think it would work, not for my club anyway.
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James Welday - the camera moves so much more in the Spielberg version. It's been very slow to start for me - will keep watching. Thanks for sharing your insight! @ErnieLijoiSr - I would like to see this as a live production!
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Cherelynn Baker, I am president, of the sins of Italy in Port Charlotte Florida. I write and direct about two (2hour) shows a year...But, we are all over 70 years old and some over 80...I am 79 years old....LOL...we simply have a lot of fun. The shows, so far, have been popular to a point where other organizations have requested that we do them in their clubs. ... I consider that an honor. I also have 10 True Crime books published under Ernie Lijoi Sr.
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Nope. Depending on the property, I would adapt it - as in the case of West Side Story itself being an adaptation of Romeo & Juliet. But I don't see any point in remaking anyone else's work.
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Agreed Shadow Dragu-Mihai, Esq., Ipg - I don't see me remaking anything or adapting anything though ... I'm dearly interested and plinking around in the developing of an independent game with audience for limited series.
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I say no to remakes. They're never better than the originals. But...Hollywood has ran out of ideas.