Thanks to Unit Still Photographer, Niko Tavernise, we own the privilege to explore the motion behind the scenes of one of the main Oscars 2022 contenders, West Side Story. Watch this stunning footage and feel the energy behind the hard work of moviemaking.

West Side Story: Major Oscars 2022’s nominee

West Side Story is a 2021 American musical romantic drama film directed and co-produced by Steven Spielberg from a screenplay by Tony Kushner. It is the second feature-length adaptation of the 1957 stage musical of the same name. The film has been nominated for Best Cinematography and Best Picture, in the 94th Academy Awards (Oscars 2022). Watch the trailer:

Tech spec

‘West Side Story’ was shot by legendary cinematographer Janusz Kamiński (Spielberg’s cinematic partner), on the Panavision Panaflex Millennium XL2 paired with Panavision C-Series, and Panavision T-Series lenses. “Steven and I still use celluloid to make movies, as film emulsion has an incredible aesthetic ability to evoke nostalgia,” remarked Kamiński in an interview held by Kodak. “Additionally, the rhythm of the ‘take, cut and reload’ process is a familiar ritual, and we see no reason to work in any other way.” Also, he said: “I have always liked a bit of grain and find that I am more emotionally involved when I see images shot on film. There’s a certain artificiality to high-definition pictures and, no matter how you cut it, film just looks more natural. Whatever story you are telling, film is still the best, and I will keep on shooting it as long as it’s manufactured and as long as it can be developed”. Have a look at the tools used to shoot West Side Story:

Whatever story you are telling, film is still the best, and I will keep on shooting it as long as it’s manufactured and as long as it can be developed.

DP Janusz Kamiński

Behind the scenes photos

Thanks to the acclaimed Unit Still Photographer, Niko Tavernise, we can explore these beautiful behind-the-scenes images, that were taken in appreciation for the hard work the crew did. As stated by Tavernise: ‘West Side Story’ is now out in theaters. So I’m dedicating these next couple posts to its crew who are often forgot about when the stars shine bright. They busted their asses in the extreme heat of NYC summer and brought Steven’s dream of making this project to reality. I’m honored to work alongside these amazing people and capture their lives on set. Here’s to the makers”. Explore the footage below: