The original, although dated and with an overly liberal message, nevertheless conveyed a contemporary mindset. The edgy music & choreography (by Jerome Robbins) reflected the angst of that era. While the late 1950s-early 1960s (MADMEN era) was outwardly white and elegant, it had the rumblings of racial tension and juvenile delinquency, all of which erupted in the 1960s.
The Spielberg remake, though apparently well received by the critics, seems to lack that spirit and power. I haven’t seen it yet, but I am very ambivalent. It just sounds too much like a period piece, with the liberal message carried to woke extreme.
Also, for what it's worth, Disney never expected a super first weekend. First, it's in only about half the number of theaters a mega movie is booked, such as Spiderman, next weekend. Also, movie going between Thanksgiving and Christmas is very weak with the exception of event movies, such as Spiderman, that attracts young males. Disney knows this, of course, which is why they announced last week, they plan on keeping the movie in theaters through February. They are anticipating good word of mouth (Cinemascore of A) and movie going peaks from Christmas Day into the New Year, so they think it will have legs and do just fine in the long run. It is anticipated it will receive a large number of Oscar noms, so that will attract movie goers in February. That is the marketing plan.
Saw it on Friday. It was terrific - in many ways superior to the original, IMO. (And I am musician).
Spielberg brings a new and fresh perspective.
Singing is amazing - esp. Maria - an unknown who won the part out of 30,000 who auditioned.