Specifically, Jackson drew inspiration from the choreography created by Jerome Robbins for West Side Story. Robbins was a legendary choreographer who revolutionized the language of dance in musicals, and his work in West Side Story remains highly influential.
One of the most famous dance moves that Jackson copied from West Side Story was the "finger snap" move performed by the Jets gang leader, Riff. This move involves snapping one's fingers while holding them in a specific position, creating a rhythmic and visually striking effect. Jackson incorporated this move, along with other gestures and footwork from the film, into his own performances, adding his unique style and interpretation.
Jackson also paid homage to West Side Story by incorporating its music into some of his own songs. For example, his song "Smooth Criminal" features a sample of the song "Maria" from West Side Story, and the music video for "Bad" includes a re-enactment of a scene from the film's iconic dance scene.
Overall, Michael Jackson's admiration and inspiration from West Side Story demonstrate his deep appreciation for great choreography and his willingness to incorporate elements from different sources into his own artistic expressions.