Romantic and Tragic: The film is a love story at its core, featuring the passionate romance between Tony and Maria. However, the love story is deeply intertwined with the brutal reality of gang violence and prejudice, leading to a deeply tragic ending.
Energetic and Somber: The musical numbers are full of vibrant energy and youthful exuberance, particularly in the "Jets" and "Sharks" songs. However, these moments are often contrasted with scenes of stark violence and despair.
Hopeful and Pessimistic: Despite the bleakness of the situation, there are moments of hope, particularly in the love between Tony and Maria and the desire for peace between the gangs. Yet, the film ultimately ends on a note of tragic loss, suggesting that societal problems are deeply ingrained and difficult to overcome.
Nostalgic and Modern: The film takes inspiration from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, giving it a classic feel. However, the film's themes of racial tension, gang violence, and social inequality are very much rooted in the modern context of 1950s New York City.
Ultimately, the tone of West Side Story is best described as bittersweet. It celebrates the power of love and dreams, while simultaneously acknowledging the harsh realities of prejudice, violence, and societal injustices.