After its premiere at this year’s Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews, the documentary Rita Moreno: Just a Girl scheduled for release on June 18 ahead of its remake premiere of West Side Story later this year.

Rita Moreno is an iconic actress in the Latin community who made her mark with the 1961’s West Side Story with her crowd-pleasing performance as Anita. She was the first Latina actress to win the Academy Award for that role.

Despite her acclaimed performance, studios offered her stereotypical ethnic minority roles. She even regrated having her skin darkened to play Anita in that role.

Over seventy years career, Rita Moreno had a humble upbringing as she was born into poverty on a Puerto Rican farm. She started her career on Broadway after studying performance and dancing. In a rarity for any performer, she achieved the EGOT status of winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards over her career.

Rita Moreno: Just A Girl Who Decided To Go For It is a documentary that delves deeper into the woman known for her humor and grace. The film showcases her struggles over the decades towards stardom, including Hollywood sexism and abuse, a toxic relationship with Marlon Brando, and a serious depression. Thanks to her achievements and resilience, she opened the doors for future Latinas by breaking down the barriers to representation.

ALSO CHECK OUT: Remember Me: Rita Moreno Talks About Family Humor, and Her Illustrious Career

“Roadside Attractions, I’m so pleased for your commitment to my story and especially for making it available to a broader audience. Curtain Up!” said Moreno in a statement.

Mariem Perez Riera directed the documentary with Norman Lear and Lin-Manuel Miranda listed amongst the producers.

PBS’ American Masters acquired the U.S. broadcast rights, which will air at an unannounced date after the broad theatrical release.

Source: Roadside Attractions