Includes bibliographical references (pages 207-209) and index.

Now it begins: From Shakespeare to Broadway -- Miracle due: Planning a movie -- Let them do what they can: Finding the cast -- Halfway there: From Hollywood to New York -- Fair fight: The Hollywood chronicles -- Intermission: Differences between the stage and film versions of West Side Story -- Yes, it could: Reactions and rewards -- Once and for all: Mortality and immortality -- A new way: The 2020 version -- Epilogue: Somewhere.

"A major hit on Broadway, on film West Side Story became immortal-a movie different from anything that had come before, but this cinematic victory came at a price. In this engrossing volume, film historian Richard Barrios recounts how the drama and rivalries seen onscreen played out to equal intensity behind-the-scenes, while still achieving extraordinary artistic feats. The making and impact of West Side Story has so far been recounted only in vestiges. In the pages of this book, the backstage tale comes to life along with insight on what has made the film a favorite across six decades: its brilliant use of dance as staged by erstwhile co-director Jerome Robbins; a meaningful story, as set to Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim's soundtrack; the performances of a youthful ensemble cast featuring Natalie Wood, Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, and more; a film with Shakespearean roots (Romeo and Juliet) that is simultaneously timeless and current. West Side Story was a triumph that appeared to be very much of its time; over the years it has shown itself to be eternal."--Amazon.