Spend an afternoon at the movies! This month we’re screening the original West Side Story—starring Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer, Rita Moreno and George Chakiris—followed by a post-screening discussion with NRPL Adult Services librarian and film historian Chris Poggiali!
Set against the vibrant streets of New York City, West Side Story follows Tony and Maria, two young people from rival communities who fall in love. Featuring unforgettable songs, dynamic choreography and a landmark musical score, the film brings Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to 1950s Manhattan in a story of love, loyalty, rivalry and the hope for something better.
Whether you’re discovering a new favorite or revisiting a classic, our free matinees are a wonderful way to relax, connect with others, and enjoy an afternoon of great storytelling.
About the Presenter
Chris Poggiali is a librarian, film historian, and co-author of the books These Fists Break Bricks: How Kung Fu Movies Swept America and Changed the World and Armies of the Night: The Warriors and its Legacy. In addition to working at the New Rochelle Public Library for more than 25 years as a reference librarian and film programmer, he has written for Turner Classic Movies, Cinema Retro, Fangoria, Rue Morgue, HorrorHound, Shock Cinema, Filmfax, The Phantom of the Movies’ Videoscope, Eastern Heroes, and other magazines and websites. His essays, commentaries and additional special features have appeared on DVD/Blu-ray releases from Kino Lorber, Shout! Factory, Arrow Films, Severin Films, Synapse Films, 88 Films, Eureka Entertainment, and other companies.
Presented in partnership with the New Rochelle Public Library.