Newsies

| 1992

Directed by: Kenny Ortega

Main Plot

"Newsies," directed by Kenny Ortega, is a musical drama set in 1899 New York City. It follows a group of newspaper delivery boys, or "newsies," who are struggling to make ends meet. When powerful newspaper publishers raise distribution prices at the expense of the newsies' earnings, the boys, led by a charismatic leader, decide to take a stand. They organize a strike to fight for fair treatment and better wages. Throughout their journey, they face numerous challenges, including opposition from the publishers and the authorities. The story highlights themes of solidarity, resilience, and the fight for justice, as the newsies rally together to make their voices heard and strive for a better future.

Characters

  • Christian Bale plays Jack Kelly, the charismatic leader of a group of newsboys who organize a strike against powerful newspaper publishers to fight for fair wages.
  • Bill Pullman plays Bryan Denton, a journalist who supports the newsboys' strike by providing media coverage and encouragement, helping to amplify their cause.
  • Robert Duvall plays Joseph Pulitzer, a powerful newspaper tycoon who raises distribution prices, sparking the newsboys' strike led by Jack Kelly.

Ending Explained

In the movie "Newsies," directed by Kenny Ortega, the climax centers around the newsboys' strike against the powerful newspaper magnates, Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. The young newsboys, led by charismatic leader Jack Kelly, demand fair treatment and better pay. As the strike intensifies, Jack faces personal dilemmas and pressure from Pulitzer, who tries to coerce him into abandoning the cause. The resolution comes when Jack, initially tempted to leave New York for a better life, decides to stay and fight alongside his friends. With the help of reporter Bryan Denton and the support of Governor Theodore Roosevelt, the newsboys manage to gain public sympathy and political backing. Roosevelt intervenes, leading to a confrontation with Pulitzer. Ultimately, Pulitzer concedes to the demands of the newsboys, agreeing to buy back unsold papers, which alleviates their financial burden. The movie concludes with the newsboys celebrating their victory, symbolizing the triumph of unity and justice over exploitation. Jack decides to remain in New York, finding a sense of belonging and purpose with his fellow newsies.

Kenny Ortega Drama Family History Christian Bale Bill Pullman Robert Duvall