The Evolution of West Side Story in 1961: A Closer Look at the Changes and Controversies Surrounding America

The Evolution of West Side Story in 1961: A Closer Look at the Changes and Controversies Surrounding 'America'

Overview

The 1961 film adaptation of West Side Story marked a significant departure from the original stage version, notably in the song 'America', which mockingly critiques both the USA and Puerto Rico. This article explores the reasons behind this change, the controversy it sparked, and the firsthand account of Rita Moreno regarding the lyrics.

Reasons for the Change

Cinematic Adaptation

The filmmakers believed that the film medium offered a unique opportunity to enhance the visual and narrative elements of the story. They aimed to make use of the cinematic format to showcase vibrant choreography and provide a richer portrayal of the cultural dynamics between the protagonists from different backgrounds. This adaptation allowed for a more complex and nuanced examination of the themes.

Broader Audience Appeal

Another factor that influenced the changes was the desire to expand the film's appeal to a broader audience. By including critiques of both Puerto Rico and the U.S., the film could potentially resonate with viewers from different cultural backgrounds, making the story more relatable and digestible for a wider audience. This approach aimed to foster a sense of understanding and empathy across diverse communities.

Character Development

The alterations in the song and the broader narrative allowed for deeper character development. Characters could now express a range of emotions and opinions about their identities and experiences, enriching the overall narrative and adding layers of complexity to the story. For instance, Maria's character gained a more nuanced perspective on her relationship with various American characters, providing a more realistic and layered portrayal of her identity.

Controversy

The changes to 'America' did not go unnoticed and sparked significant controversy, particularly among Puerto Rican communities and their advocates. Critics argued that the lighthearted tone of the song might trivialize the struggles of immigrants and the complexities of cultural identity. However, the film also received praise for its innovative approach to discussing cultural identity and the song's ability to highlight these issues.

Contrary to Rumors: Rita Moreno’s Account

Interview Insights

Rita Moreno, who played Anita, provided a firsthand account of the changes to the song and her involvement in the adaptation process. Contrary to rumors, she did not ask Stephen Sondheim to change the lyrics. Moreno stated, "I never asked Stephen Sondheim to change the lyrics. Oh no. No no no no no. I would never have dreamed of doing that at the time." These statements clear up the misconception that Moreno had initially pushed for changes to the song.

Instead, Moreno revealed a more complex experience. She auditioned for the role of Anita multiple times, her heart racing with fear. She had not danced in decades and did not think she would get the part. However, she did indeed get the part and felt jubilant at the opportunity. Just before signing her contract, she suddenly remembered that the verse of the song had not been changed. Moreno barely had time to reconsider before receiving the new lyrics, which she ultimately agreed to perform as part of the film. This personal insight offers a unique perspective on the arduous process of bringing West Side Story to the screen.

Conclusion

The 1961 film adaptation of West Side Story represents a nuanced and complex evolution of the original stage version. While the changes to the song 'America' sparked controversy, they also offered new layers of depth and authenticity to the characters and the narrative. The story of Rita Moreno's involvement in the adaptation process provides a window into the collaborative and sometimes challenging process of bringing classic literature to the screen.