In Steven Spielberg’s 2021 film adaptation of the beloved musical “West Side Story,” the character of Velma is played by actress Rita Moreno, who also played Anita in the original 1961 film. This casting choice has been widely praised as a way to bridge the gap between the old and new generations of fans and to give Moreno a chance to revisit a character that she helped to make iconic.
Moreno’s performance in the 2021 film has been met with critical acclaim, with many critics praising her for bringing a new depth and nuance to the role of Velma. In her review of the film, The New York Times’ critic A.O. Scott wrote that Moreno “brings a lifetime of experience and wisdom to the role, and she invests Velma with a quiet strength and dignity that is both moving and inspiring.”
