Newsies

“Newsies” is a Disney musical film released in 1992, directed by Kenny Ortega. The movie is based on the real-life events of the Newsboys’ Strike of 1899 in New York City. It tells the story of a group of young newspaper sellers, known as “newsies,” who go on strike against the powerful publishing magnates of the time to fight for fair wages and better working conditions.

The film is set in the late 19th century during the Gilded Age when newspaper publishers, including Joseph Pulitzer (played by Robert Duvall), and William Randolph Hearst, increased the price of newspapers for the newsies, making it harder for them to earn a living. Jack Kelly (played by Christian Bale) is the charismatic and street-smart leader of the newsies, who rallies his fellow newsboys to stand up for their rights and fight against the unfair practices of the newspaper companies.

With the help of a young reporter named Bryan Denton (played by Bill Pullman), who covers their strike in the newspapers, the newsies gain public support and draw attention to their cause. As the strike intensifies, the newsies face challenges and confrontations with the police and hired goons, hired by the newspaper owners to break the strike.

The film features lively musical numbers and dance sequences, capturing the spirit of rebellion and camaraderie among the newsies. Songs like “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “King of New York” have become fan favorites over the years.

“Newsies” received mixed reviews upon its initial release but gained a dedicated following through home video and subsequent stage adaptations. In 2012, the film was adapted into a successful Broadway musical, which earned critical acclaim and won several Tony Awards.

“Newsies” has become a beloved classic among Disney fans and musical theater enthusiasts. It celebrates the power of unity and collective action and serves as an inspiring story of young people fighting for their rights and making their voices heard in the face of adversity. The film’s themes of social justice, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life resonate with audiences of all ages.

Fun Facts

1. “Newsies” is based on the true story of the Newsboys’ Strike of 1899, when a group of newspaper boys in New York City went on strike against publishing giants William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer.
2. The film was a box office flop when it was first released in 1992, but it gained a cult following over time and was eventually adapted into a successful Broadway musical.
3. The original Broadway production of “Newsies” won two Tony Awards in 2012, for Best Original Score and Best Choreography.
4. The film was directed by Kenny Ortega, who later went on to direct the “High School Musical” franchise.
5. The film’s iconic dance sequences were choreographed by Christopher Gattelli, who went on to win a Tony Award for his work on the Broadway production.
6. The character of Katherine Plumber, a female reporter who helps the Newsies in their fight against the publishers, was added to the musical adaptation and was not present in the original film.
7. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Alan Menken and J.A.C. Redford, features catchy songs such as “Seize the Day” and “King of New York.”