ULI’s Building Healthy Places Book & Film Club: “West Side Story” & New York
July 18-28, 2022

Image courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox

Explore the intersection of film, musical theater, and the fascinating real-world story behind the setting of West Side Story, the long-lost Manhattan neighborhoods of San Juan Hill and Lincoln Square.

Independently watch the 1961 and 2021 versions of the film (Stephen Spielberg’s remake is as much a commentary on the original as anything else) and then join the post-film discussion led by Julia Foulkes, author of A Place for Us: ‘West Side Story’ and New York. You will also receive a virtual screening guide with observations and questions to help you reflect on the health, social equity, and real estate themes explored in both films.

THE SCHEDULE

• July 18 – Independent Viewing Kickoff: We will send you a Film Club 101 email outlining how the new BHP Film Club will work.
• Virtual Screening Guide: Julia Foulkes will send you a few observations and questions to guide your personal screenings of the 1961 and 2021 versions of the film.
• July 28, 4 pm ET via Zoom – Post-Film(s) Discussion: After watching both films independently, join us for a virtual group discussion led by Julia Foulkes.

ENJOY FILM WITH US

• Participation is free with registration.
• Participants receive a Film Club 101 kickoff email, along with a virtual screening guide, and a link to the virtual meetup via Zoom.
• The virtual meetup is scheduled for 75 minutes and starts promptly at 4 pm ET.
• Viewing the 1961 and 2021 versions of the film is recommended but not required to participate in the virtual meetups and online discussions.

SPEAKERS (additional speakers will be announced)

Julia L. Foulkes, Professor of History and author
Julia Foulkes is a Professor of History at the New School where she investigates the intersection of arts, urban studies, and history. She chairs the curricular area in Arts and Social Engagement. Her additional works include Modern Bodies: Dance and American Modernism from Martha Graham to Alvin Ailey; and To the City: Urban Photographs of the New Deal. Julia Foulkes | @JuliaFoulkes1