Artwork created to advertise film adaptations of the musical “West Side Story” serves as a key visual element in marketing campaigns. These marketing materials often depict iconic imagery from the stage production and film, such as the star-crossed lovers, stylized urban settings, or dynamic dance sequences. Examples include the original 1961 film poster featuring Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer, and later versions for the 2021 Steven Spielberg adaptation.
Such imagery plays a vital role in capturing the essence of the story and attracting audiences. It communicates the musical’s themes of love, conflict, and social division while showcasing the distinctive visual style of each film version. Historically, these promotional pieces have become collectible items, reflecting changing graphic design trends and serving as cultural artifacts that represent specific eras in filmmaking. Their study provides insights into the evolution of marketing strategies and visual communication related to cinematic adaptations of Broadway productions.