West Side Story (1961) ****1/2

The first time I watched West Side Story (1961), I gave it ****. I was surprised that I liked it that much. I was going to give the film the same rating this round and then changed my mind because, despite some shortcomings, it's pretty astounding. 

The technical achievements are overwhelming—the choreography, the music/score, the lighting/colors, the mind-blowing direction/cinematography. It features one of the best opening and closing credits to any film I've ever seen (thanks to Saul Bass). 

It's also incredibly dark for its time and for a musical, in general. It's not "feel good" at all. And it's unique while still being essentially a classic 'Romeo & Juliet' tale.