people like to say the movie is better due to the fact its mainly Davey and Jack scenes BUT i think thats one of its biggest flaws
allow me to explain.
Sure, Davey has a few relationships but it feels like its main focus is his and Jacks.
Meanwhile, a large complaint these people have about the musical is that its not just Davey and Jacks relationship thats focused on but also Jacks relationship with Crutchie and Kath. I prefer this!! It not only gives more characters time in the light and allows other characters to be given fleshed out personalities (especially with Crutchy/Crutchie) BUT it allows Davey to have a closer relationship with the other newsies.
his relationship with the other newsies feels so much stronger in the musical compared to the movie and it makes it so much better and him actually feel part of the newsies and not just jacks friend who also sells newspapers (if that makes sense)
anyway i prefer the musical for many reason but this is just one of them
(Man how have i not been sent death threats yet for my takes /silly)