pharmdad2007's review
3.0
Would have loved more anecdotes about the actual filming of the movie, but overall, the author doesn't disappoint. Well written.
jhstack's review against another edition
4.0
Chakiris weaves an enlightening biography in with the history of West Side Story, along with plenty of who's who name-dropping. George Newbern's narration certainly doesn't hurt either. (e-audiobook through NetGalley)
editrix's review against another edition
5.0
This is much more than a wonderful tribute to “West Side Story” and all its creators (the title and timing of the book is 100 percent marketing), but it is that too. Mostly, though, it’s a fantastic industry memoir (I had no idea how many movies and plays Chakiris was in, and how many gigantic stars he was connected to), and he seems like a thoroughly lovely, gracious, emotionally generous man, who is humbled and grateful to have lived such a full, accomplished life and made so many friends and fans. I am charmed. (The audio narrator is not Chakiris but is a perfect fit.)
tjyodj123's review
4.0
George is extraordinary and a triple threat! Very direct storytelling and easy to follow, sympathize and admire. What a journey he has been on and still looks terrific today! Actually a very humble way of storytelling and not showy in any form. If you love west side story, def read this!
kylasmv15's review
4.0
“No matter how dark the moment, love and hope are always possible.”
My West Side Story, is both a memoir of George Chakiris (the actor who played Bernardo in the 1961 West Side Story film) and a chronicle of the history surrounding the West Side Story legacy. The book follows the entirety of George’s life - before, during and after the film that ultimately earned him an Oscar and a prosperous career. George also uses the book as an opportunity to relay the rich history surrounding the tale that eventually went on to become a true classic.
This memoir is both a film and theater buff’s dream. George had such an amazing career, both on the stage and on camera, so it’s no surprise that he had a treasure trove of stories to tell.
I listened to this on audiobook and had such a fun time with it! The book just flew by and I really enjoyed George Newbern’s narration.
What I Loved:
✨All the Anecdotes from George’s Career - George worked with so many Hollywood greats throughout his time in the entertainment world - from Judy Garland to Rita Moreno (and the list goes on) - that he accrued many fascinating stories to share.
✨All the Theater References - George’s resume is chock-full of theater and his repertoire of songs contains numerous timeless theater standards. My theater loving heart was beyond content with all the theatrical name dropping.❤️
✨Learning All Things West Side Story - I loved hearing about the show’s history and about the making of the film! George had such a vast wealth of knowledge on the topic!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and believe that any entertainment junkie would have a ball reading it! It’s packed full of show biz trivia and history, while also containing the story of a boy who fell in love with the movies and made it his goal to one day be a part of them.
A definite must read for anyone who loves all things theater and film! Know that you will
My West Side Story, is both a memoir of George Chakiris (the actor who played Bernardo in the 1961 West Side Story film) and a chronicle of the history surrounding the West Side Story legacy. The book follows the entirety of George’s life - before, during and after the film that ultimately earned him an Oscar and a prosperous career. George also uses the book as an opportunity to relay the rich history surrounding the tale that eventually went on to become a true classic.
This memoir is both a film and theater buff’s dream. George had such an amazing career, both on the stage and on camera, so it’s no surprise that he had a treasure trove of stories to tell.
I listened to this on audiobook and had such a fun time with it! The book just flew by and I really enjoyed George Newbern’s narration.
What I Loved:
✨All the Anecdotes from George’s Career - George worked with so many Hollywood greats throughout his time in the entertainment world - from Judy Garland to Rita Moreno (and the list goes on) - that he accrued many fascinating stories to share.
✨All the Theater References - George’s resume is chock-full of theater and his repertoire of songs contains numerous timeless theater standards. My theater loving heart was beyond content with all the theatrical name dropping.❤️
✨Learning All Things West Side Story - I loved hearing about the show’s history and about the making of the film! George had such a vast wealth of knowledge on the topic!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and believe that any entertainment junkie would have a ball reading it! It’s packed full of show biz trivia and history, while also containing the story of a boy who fell in love with the movies and made it his goal to one day be a part of them.
A definite must read for anyone who loves all things theater and film! Know that you will
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