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Why did Robert Wise codirect West Side Story with Jerome Robbins?

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Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins co-directed the 1961 film version of West Side Story because Robbins had directed and choreographed the original, long-running Broadway production upon which the movie was based.1

The division of labor was intended to leverage their respective strengths: Robbins was hired specifically to direct the film's complex dance sequences, while Robert Wise was responsible for directing the remaining scenes. However, the collaboration was marked by difficulties; Robbins insisted on an excessive number of takes for his sequences, which ultimately led to him being fired before the production was completed. Despite these challenges, the film was a major critical and commercial success, winning 10 Academy Awards, including best picture and best director.21