About Newsies

Newsies is a 1992 American musical comedy-drama film produced by Walt Disney Pictures and directed by choreographer Kenny Ortega in his film directing debut. The film is inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City and tells the story of newsboy Jack Kelly, who rallies newsboys from across the city to strike against the price hike of newspapers by publishing bigwigs.

Making / Production

The movie was choreographed by Kenny Ortega, Patti Colombo, and Peggy Holmes. The film's music was composed by Alan Menken and J.A.C Redford. The original screenplay was penned by Bob Tzudiker and Noni White. Despite limited commercial success, the film has gained a significant cult following on home video.

Actors

• Christian Bale as Jack Kelly: As the charismatic and brave leader of the Newsies, Bale delivers a striking performance, highlighting the character's intense desire for fairness.
• David Moscow as David Jacobs: Portraying the role of the knowledgeable and intelligent Newsie, Moscow expertly balances the character's youthful innocence with a mature understanding of the harsh realities of their situation.
• Bill Pullman as Bryan Denton: Playing an ambitious reporter covering the strike, Pullman offers a character that provides adult support to the Newsies.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was initially a box office flop, but gained a large cult following after release on home video.
• Newsies was later adapted into a successful Broadway musical, which won two Tony Awards in 2012.
• Christian Bale has admitted that he was initially embarrassed about his role in Newsies but later came to appreciate it.

Awards

Although the film did not win any major awards during its initial release, the Broadway adaptation won two Tony Awards in 2012 for Best Original Score and Best Choreography.

Quotes

• "Ain't it a fine life, carrying the banner through it all." - Jack Kelly
• "We've been called a lot of things. We never been called a business." - David Jacobs

Music, Soundtrack

• "Carrying the Banner" - The film opens with this boisterous number performed by the ensemble of Newsies.
• "Santa Fe" - Christian Bale's Jack Kelly passionately sings about his dream to escape to Santa Fe.
• "Seize The Day" - This rousing tune serves as the Newsies' rallying cry as they fight for better working conditions.