Have you ever had a musical that you have wanted other people to see that it feels like only you have. For me it is Newsies. Many people know of the movie, which is unfortunate as this is a superior version in every single way. But I have spoken to many people and only a few have seen this version, more have seen the movie, and more have seen nor heard none of this at all. Today I am going to talk about one of my favorite Disney musicals that is on the same level as some of their best.
One of my favorite pro shots, it is expertly filmed. this is so well shot that it has been shown in movie theaters, multiple times, which I have seen once. The music is done by Alan Menkin, who has done Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and many more, including many of Disney's stage adaptations. The story of this is loosely based on real events and has all of the makings of a Disney movie. Dreamer who faces the odds, falls in love, and saves the day with help from his friends. The stage is New York in the early 1900's following a group of newsboys or newsies as they are called, a journalist, and the challenges they face. Young heroes taking on people who discredit them for their age and status. The story unfolds well and even though some elements are not well paced, namely the romance, the rest of the story is, it has comedy, heart, and some drama all mixed well together.
The music of this show is amazing, some of the numbers are weaker then others but many are stand out wonderful pieces. The group numbers all stand head and shoulders above some group numbers from other shows, they have amazing choreography and music. "Seize The Day" and "Once And For All" are outstanding showstopping numbers that bring the whole cast together in a phenomenal way. The show begins and ends strong, the songs that hit hard, hit incredibly well. The lyrics are memorable and the fantastic and many of the solo songs are power ballads. The song taking place right before intermission, "Santa Fe" ,is powerful, full of emotion, and one of my favorite musical songs ever. "Watch What Happens" is a fun upbeat song which leads to an amazing reprise that is just as great.
The music works well with the story, with a great amount of songs that have room to breath so they can stay with the audience. The songs are a great reflection of the characters, many which are likeable in the best way. Though some of the writing falls short, the show has way more positives then negatives. This show I have seen live, seen in movie theaters, watched back when it was on Netflix and now on Disney Plus. I have watched it countless times over the years and will again, I watch it multiple times a year. The pro shot has the original Broadway cast and each performance is spot on. This is not something worth skipping and one of, if not the most recommended pro shot I have ever given to those who can see it, after Legally Blonde.
If you love the feel of classic Disney movies, and love a great musical, and have Disney Plus, this is a must watch. The movie is not worth your time, but this version is. There are two Newsies options on the service, but this is the one to pick. The soaring music, fun story, and fantastic group numbers are not to be missed.
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