West Side Story Is Heading to Disney+ In March

Photo credit: Photo by Niko Tavernise
Photo credit: Photo by Niko Tavernise


"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below."

The original West Side Story is one of the most successful films of all time when it comes to winning Academy Awards. The movie, which starred Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Rita Moreno, George Chakiris, and Russ Tamblyn, took home 10 statues in 1961, including Best Picture and Best Director, making it the musical with the most Oscar wins ever. Chakiris also won a Best Supporting Actor trophy for the role of Bernardo, and Rita Moreno won Best Supporting Actress for portraying Anita.

Photo credit: Silver Screen Collection - Getty Images
Photo credit: Silver Screen Collection - Getty Images

Now, the tragic story of star-crossed lovers Maria and Tony has a chance to make Oscar history once again. The 2021 adaptation of West Side Story directed by Stephen Spielberg garnered seven nominations in 2021 including Best Picture, Best Cinematography, and Best Directing.

Ariana deBose also garnered a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her portrayal of Anita. If she wins, she and Rita Moreno will become the first actresses to win an acting award for playing the same character in two different movies. (Two pairs of actors have previously achieved this feat: Marlon Brando and Robert De Niro, who both played Vito Corleone, and Heath Ledger and Joaquin Phoenix who have both played the Joker.

Want to catch up on the film ahead of the March 27 ceremony? Here's how to watch.

How to Watch the 2021 West Side Story:

Starting March 2, the film will be available to stream on Disney+. That day, it will also be available to stream on HBO Max. If you don't already subscribe to either of these platforms, Disney+ costs $7.99 per month or $79.99 per year. Plans for HBOMax start at $9.99/month. As of publication, West Side Story is also still currently in theaters in many places, if you want to see it on the big screen.

Sign up for Disney+

Sign up for HBOMax

Looking for the original 1961 film?

West Side Story isn't currently available to stream for free on any online platforms. But you can buy or rent the film on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, Google Play, or YouTube.

You Might Also Like