Steven Spielberg's West Side Story

Steven Spielberg has achieved the impossible: a remake of the classic musical West Side Story.

From the stunning opening shots of 1950s New York, you can sense that this is no mere remake, but a complete re-imagining that somehow enhances the brilliance.

Rachel Zegler is simply sublime as Maria, and her innocence and longing bring new nuances. And Ansel Elgort proves himself a great musical star as the sensitive Tony.

Under Tony Kushner and Spielberg's vision, the socially relevant themes of intolerance and tribalism feel painfully relevant today.

But at no point does it feel monotonous: Robbie's dazzling choreography for the impressive ensemble scenes lifts your soul.

Justin Peck's numbers are also a breath of joy. And the score. Sondheim and Bernstein's work has never sounded so exhilarating.

Spielberg directs it all masterfully, and cinematographer Janusz Kaminski brings 1960s New York to life as never before.

At its heart remains the immortal message of hope that love can transcend all boundaries. For that alone, it is a film to remember. Thank you, master Spielberg.

Wonderful. Spellbinding. Heartbreaking. In a word: perfection. It is destined to stand proudly alongside the best of any musical genre.

I don't think anyone could have predicted this level of critical and commercial success for Spielberg's West Side Story.

The film dominated the nominations season, garnering a whopping 7 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for Spielberg.

Although it didn't win the top awards, Zegler did win Best Supporting Actress, well deserved for her sublime debut as a leading lady.

And at the Golden Globes she won Best Motion Picture Musical or Comedy, as well as Ariana DeBose for Supporting Actress.

But most impressive has been its box office performance. Against all odds in this age of streaming, it has grossed an impressive $154 million worldwide on a budget of $100 million.

It is clear that audiences of all ages have rediscovered this classic through Spielberg's vision. It has even been in cinemas for months.

Make no mistake, West Side Story is already establishing itself as one of Spielberg's greatest triumphs and will soon be remembered with lasting admiration.