Where was West Side Story (1961) filmed?
1961
City Locations
New York (USA), West Hollywood (USA), Los Angeles (USA)
Location Types
Film Studio, House, Church, Unusual
Location Styles
Americana, Dated, Old Hollywood
About West Side Story (1961)
West Side Story is a romantic musical drama film that tells the classic story of Romeo and Juliet, set in the 1950s. It follows the star-crossed lovers, Tony and Maria, fighting to keep their love alive against all odds. With characters from two opposing sides of New York City (the Jets and Sharks) unable to reconcile their differences, Tony and Maria's love is a unifying force. Ultimately, it is a story of how love can bring harmony even to an otherwise divided world. The film features some iconic performances by Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Russ Tamblyn, Rita Moreno, and George Chakiris. With a screenplay by Ernest Lehman and music by Leonard Bernstein, with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story is considered one of the greatest musical films ever. Consider this rephrased statement: "Upon its release, West Side Story was a commercial triumph, emerging as the top-grossing film of 1961 with rentals totaling $19,645,000 in the United States and Canada. It continued to hold this distinction as the highest-grossing musical film ever until 1965 with the release of The Sound of Music. Worldwide, the film grossed an impressive $44.1 million, equivalent to $432 million in 2022. Despite its success, profit participation meant that United Artists only earned a modest profit of $2.5 million ($24 million in 2022)."
West Side Story (1961) Locations
West Side Story is a classic musical film that left an indelible impression in the annals of cinematic history. The film was released in 1961 and shot across two regions: New York City and West Hollywood, California. Despite the film’s iconic NYC atmosphere, most scenes were filmed in West Hollywood on large sound stages. While some exterior shots were done using New York City backdrops, most of them were captured on location in sunny California. This film's backdrop of West Hollywood is a mix of modern aesthetics and historical charm. The street scenes capture stunning architecture from decades past and bustling street life amidst mid-century cars and storefronts. Los Angeles County courthouse set pieces provided a realistic outdoor courtroom scene, while Mount Lee could be seen from afar, providing an iconic panoramic view of the cityscape. A trip to these locations would be worthwhile for those interested in getting an up-close look at how the production team worked to bring authenticity to a story that captures its time perfectly. From historical sites to modern-day Los Angeles hot spots like Paramount Studios, there are plenty of places to explore when looking into the history of this classic musical masterpiece.
Fun Fact
West Side Story was nominated for 11 Academy Awards in 1961 and won 10 of them, including Best Picture, making it tied with Ben-Hur (1959) for most Oscars won for any single film! Despite its success at the Academy Awards, West Side Story never received recognition at Cannes Film Festival due to its director Robert Wise's declining invitation. He wanted to focus on his next project, The Haunting, instead.
Fighting between gangs scene in West Side Story
West 68th Street, Manhattan, New York, NY, USA
Set in 1957 New York City, West Side Story follows the rivalry between two teenage gangs vying for dominance on the Upper West Side. The Jets, led by Riff (Russ Tamblyn) and comprised of white members, engage in frequent brawls with the Sharks, a gang of Puerto Ricans led by Bernardo (George Chakiris). Amidst the chaos, Lieutenant Schrank (Simon Oakland) and Officer Krupke (William Bramley) intervene and end the altercation, but tensions continue to escalate. Eventually, the Jets challenge the Sharks to a rumble following an upcoming dance. This scene was filmed at West 68th Street. It is a beautiful tree-lined street in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York City. Stretching from Riverside Drive to Central Park West, this street is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. One notable landmark on West 68th Street is the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. This world-renowned cultural hub is home to several theaters, including the Metropolitan Opera House, the David H. Koch Theater, and the Avery Fisher Hall, where the New York Philharmonic Orchestra regularly performs. The easiest way to travel to West 68th Street by subway is to take the 1 train and get off at the 66th Street/Lincoln Center station. From there, it's just a short walk to West 68th Street.
The dance scene in West Side Story
Church of Saint Paul the Apostle, 405 W 59th St, New York, NY, USA
During the dance, both gangs and their female companions make a conscious effort to avoid mixing. At this point, Tony (Richard Beymer) enters, and he is immediately smitten with Maria (Marni Nixon). However, Bernardo (George Chakiris), Maria's brother, sternly warns Tony to stay away from her. Meanwhile, Riff (Russ Tamblyn) proposes meeting Bernardo at Doc's (Ned Glass) drugstore at midnight to establish the regulations for the impending rumble. The dance scene was filmed at The Church of Saint Paul the Apostle. It is a magnificent Catholic church in Manhattan, New York, designed by architect Jeremiah O'Rourke, who also contributed to several other iconic buildings in the city. The church was built in the late 19th century and has since become one of the area's most impressive pieces of architecture. Its grand facade features intricate carvings and ornate details that will catch the eye of anyone passing by. Several bus routes stop near 405 W 59th St. These include the M31, M57, M66, M104, BXM2, and BXM7. Check the MTA website for schedules and route maps. Alternatively, you can input the address into your GPS or map app for directions. Parking in this area can be difficult and expensive, so using a ride-sharing service or public transportation is best.
Bernardo and Anita discuss the pros and cons scene in West Side Story
The Lot Studios, 1041 N Formosa Ave, West Hollywood, CA, USA
After being sent home, Maria's (Natalie Wood) brother Bernardo (George Chakiris) is accused of being too overprotective of her by Anita (Rita Moreno). They discuss the pros and cons of living in Puerto Rico versus the mainland United States. Meanwhile, Tony (Richard Beymer) manages to sneak onto Maria's fire escape, where they share a tender moment and express their love for each other. As Krupke (William Bramley) becomes suspicious of the Jets' activities, he warns them against causing trouble. This scene was filmed at The Lot Studios, located in the heart of West Hollywood. It is a premier destination for film and television production. The studio lot covers nearly 14 acres and houses several sound stages, post-production facilities, and other amenities, making it an ideal location for shooting movies, TV shows, and commercials. One of the most noteworthy features of The Lot Studios is its storied history. The lot was originally built in 1918 by film producer Jesse Lasky and has been used for countless productions. Some famous films and TV shows shot on The Lot include Singin' in the Rain, Grease, The West Wing, and Mad Men. You can use LA Metro buses to get to 1041 N Formosa Ave. Take the bus route 212 towards Hollywood/Vermont Station from downtown LA. Exit at Santa Monica/El Centro and walk five blocks west to Formosa Ave.
‘America’ dance scene in West Side Story
Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village, New York, NY, USA
The notable aerial shot is during the "America" dance sequence, where the camera hovers above a sprawling cityscape as the dancers move through the streets below. This shot provides a unique perspective of the vibrant energy and diversity of the city. In New York City's heart, Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village, commonly known as ST-PCV, is a massive residential complex. It was constructed in the late 1940s to provide affordable housing to veterans returning from World War II. The architect firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill designed it, which was completed in 1947. The name ST-PCV comes from the combination of Peter Stuyvesant, the final Dutch governor of New Amsterdam, and Peter Cooper, an American philanthropist and industrialist who founded the Cooper Union. To reach Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village, you can use different transportation options based on your location and preferences. If you have a car, you can enter the address (245 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10003) in your GPS or map app for directions. However, parking in the area may be tough and costly, so you may need to search for a spot or utilize a paid parking garage. Alternatively, bus routes, such as M14A, M14D, M15, M23, and M101, stop near Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village. You can utilize the MTA's trip planner to determine the best route and schedule for your journey.
Parking garage scene in West Side Story
Los Angeles, California, USA
Following their new leader, Ice (Tucker Smith), the Jets regroup outside a garage and prepare to respond to the presence of the police. Suddenly, Anybodys (Susan Oakes) appears and informs them that Chino (Jose De Vega) is pursuing Tony (Richard Beymer) with a firearm. In response, Ice dispatches the Jets to warn Tony of the danger. As they do so, a sorrowful Anita (Rita Moreno) enters the apartment and discovers Tony and Maria (Natalie Wood) in the bedroom. Los Angeles is a bustling and culturally rich city in southern California. It boasts a warm climate, stunning beaches, and endless choices for entertainment, making it an irresistible destination for millions of visitors every year. Film and TV enthusiasts are particularly drawn to LA, as the city houses significant studios such as Warner Bros., Universal Pictures, and Paramount Pictures. Tourists can enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of these studios and catch a sneak peek of their favorite shows being filmed. Most visitors to Los Angeles arrive by airplane. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves millions of passengers each year. Many major airlines offer direct flights to LAX from cities around the world.
Chino fires at Tony scene in West Side Story
110th Street, New York, NY, USA
At the playground adjacent to Doc's (Ned Glass), Tony (Richard Beymer) catches sight of Maria (Natalie Wood) and rushes toward her. However, their joyous reunion is abruptly cut short when Chino (Jose De Vega) fires a fatal shot at Tony. Upon arriving at the scene, the gangs witness Maria cradling Tony's lifeless body in her arms. Deeply affected by this tragedy, Maria convinces the gangs to refrain from violence, highlighting how their hatred led to this devastating outcome. Meanwhile, Schrank (Simon Oakland) and Krupke (William Bramley) arrive to apprehend Chino. The gangs then come together to carry Tony's body in a funeral procession, with Maria leading the way, culminating at the end of their long-standing feud. 110th Street is a bustling and dynamic neighborhood located in New York City. It is in the northern part of Manhattan, stretching from Central Park to the East River. The area is rich in history and culture, with a diverse population that adds to its vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. If you're driving, you can take the FDR Drive, exit at 106th Street, or take the Henry Hudson Parkway and exit at 96th Street. Parking in this area can be difficult, so it may be best to park further away and take public transportation.
Conclusion
West Side Story (1961) is an iconic movie that captures the vibrant street life and social issues of New York City in the 1950s. It tells the story of two young lovers from rival gangs, Tony and Maria, who fall in love despite their differences. To depict this classic tale, filmmakers shot on location in New York City to capture the city's unique energy and atmosphere. They used Washington Square Park as a stand-in for Tony's neighborhood of Manhattan's Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen as a stand-in for Maria's East Side neighborhood. Additional exterior shots were filmed around Brooklyn Heights, Times Square, and the Upper East Side. To recreate some musical numbers, director Jerome Robbins chose locations such as a beach near Malibu and a ranch in Simi Valley for his iconic choreography shots. Despite filming only partially in New York City, West Side Story still perfectly captured its spirit with its diverse locations and unforgettable musical moments.