Yahoo Lifestyle 'Wicked' Just Made Our List of the Greatest Movie Musicals of All Time
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Ever since song and dance first hit the silver screen with the invention of sound technology in the early 20th century, musical movies have long been a part of cinematic history. And with the rise of music biopics, stage-to-screen adaptations and live-action films based on cartoons (hello, Disney!), you're guaranteed to find some version of one in movie theaters ay any given time.
While all musical movies tend to follow a similar formula (think catchy songs and impressive dance routines), the actual genre is quite diverse. This means there's an option for everyone, from heartbreaking dramas to musicals that give a peek at important events in history. What's more, some of the most popular Broadway shows have been adapted for the screen, bringing a touch of the Great White Way right to your couch.
We had to add Wicked to our list, which after over two decades on Broadway is finally defying gravity on the big screen — and trust us, it's worth seeing in theaters. Whether you're into family classics (like The Sound of Music) or more modern musicals (such as Hamilton or Tick, Tick … BOOM!), our picks for the greatest musical movies of all time will definitely put a song in your heart.
Wicked, Part 1 (2024)
Over two decades after Wicked hit the Broadway stage, the backstory of the "Wicked Witch of the West" is finally coming to life in movie form. With Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande playing the iconic Elphaba and Glinda, viewers are taken back to a different time in Oz, long before Dorothy tries to find her way back home. Get ready to defy gravity with the long-awaited Wicked part one in theaters now.
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Tick, Tick... BOOM! (2021)
When Rent writer Jonathan Larson wrote a semi-autobiographical musical about his life, he probably didn’t expect it to be turned into a feature film with some of the most impressive names on Broadway in it. Filled with heart, soul, tears and a deeper understanding of the trials and tribulations of the end of the 20th century, Andrew Garfield portrays the playwright in a way that’ll have viewers feeling moved by the entire experience.
Newsies (1992)
Loosely based on the real-life newsboys’ strike of 1899, this Disney film introduced viewers to a young Christian Bale as the leader of kids looking to make a buck on the papes. The music is catchy, the dancing is memorable (which makes sense, with Dirty Dancing choreographer Kenny Ortega directing) and it teaches a bit of American history not always explored in our educations. What more could you ask for?
Wonka (2023)
With the story of Willy Wonka’s famous chocolate factory being beloved for over half a century, why not learn more about the man who started it all? Timothée Chalamet plays the titular role in a musical story that relays the tale of how Wonka became the candy man himself. It turns out to be much more than due to a love of chocolate, and the original songs written for the movie do an excellent job at bringing happiness and appreciation for anything truly sweet.
The Color Purple (2023)
The 1985 film put the story of The Color Purple on the map, but the Broadway musical added a new layer of despair, emotion and heartbreak. Now, a theatrical version based on the play is available to stream, with a plethora of major actors playing roles that folks will remember from the original movie. Plus, this iteration of The Color Purple received major buzz upon its release, with nominations for the Golden Globe Awards, Academy Awards, SAG Awards and many more.
Cinderella (1997)
Brandy takes on the iconic titular role and and Whitney Houston is the Fairy Godmother in this modern-day version of the notable fairy tale. The songs showcase both singers’ incredible voices, and it brings a new spin to the story people know and love. And if that’s not enough, Brandy is set to play a version of Cinderella (alongside her former co-star Paolo Montalban as Prince Charming) in the upcoming movie Descendants: The Rise of Red. Now that’s something to be excited about!
Dear Evan Hansen (2021)
Based on the hit 2016 musical of the same name, Ben Plat reprises his role from the Broadway show, playing a teenager desperate to overcome his social anxiety. When he inserts himself into a family affected by a high school tragedy, he ends up questioning whether he deserved to gain their love and support. The movie offers a unique look at mental health, and the soundtrack will definitely cause a few tears to be shed as well.
The Wiz (1978)
Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Lena Horne and Richard Pryor are just a few of the famous names starring in the hit movie directed by Sidney Lumet. Telling a modern version of the classic story from writer L. Frank Baum, the film features classic songs like "Ease on Down the Road" and "You Can't Win." The movie is based on the 1974 musical of the same name, and fans will be ecstatic to learn The Wiz is returning to Broadway this spring.
Cats (1998)
While the 2019 version of the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic musical definitely had people questioning it, the taped version of the original stage production is one theater folks shouldn't miss out on seeing. Taking inspiration from the poems in T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, viewers witness a litter of felines all vying for a new life on the Heaviside Layer. The dancing is memorable, the costumes are unforgettable. and the songs... well, they'll definitely be burned into your "Memory."
Oliver! (1968)
Based on Charles Dickens' 1838 novel Oliver Twist and the 1960 stage musical of the same name, fans are introduced to a young orphan who finds himself initiated into a group of pickpockets on the streets of London. With songs fans continue to love (like "Consider Yourself" and "Food, Glorious Food"), the film won six Academy Awards and was ranked the 77th-greatest British film of the 20th century by the British Film Institute. How's that for a series of accolades?
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In the Heights (2021)
Lin-Manuel Miranda's 2008 musical of the same name is the basis for this musical drama, taking place in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City. The story follows a young Dominican bodega owner who dreams of returning to his homeland, while other members of his community long to build better lives for themselves. The film is equal parts hopeful and joyful, with music that makes you feel and breathe the streets the characters walk on every day.
Fiddler on the Roof (1971)
A beloved movie based on the stage musical of the same name, Fiddler on the Roof follows a poor Jewish milkman who lives in Anatevka, a small shtetl in Russia. While he's tasked with marrying off his five daughters, he struggles to make a living in order to provide for them. But as the Russian government forces Jews out of their homes, the family must learn the true extent of love and what it means to be connected.
Hamilton (2020)
He's one of the most famous names to come from the American Revolution, and Lin-Manuel Miranda brought his story to life in a musical that'll forever be a classic in the theater world. Mashing up storytelling with music and hip hop, folks get a different taste of U.S. history over the span of two and half hours in Hamilton. And since this movie was filmed while the original cast was still in the Broadway show, you get a taste of what it was like to be "in the room where it happened."
Footloose (1984)
In this musical drama, Kevin Bacon became famous for portraying Ren McCormack, a Chicago teenager who moves to a town that outlawed any dancing. As he rebels against the minister's ban and tries to get the law revoked, he finds himself falling in love with the minister's daughter and wants nothing more than to be with her. The film not only showcases incredible footwork on the cast's part, but it later was remade into a 2011 movie starring Julianne Hough.
Bye Bye Birdie (1963)
This movie was the feature film debut of Dick Van Dyke, and it also was inspired by Elvis Presley's own draft into the U.S. Army in the late 1950s. The story follows Conrad Birdie, a rock and roll star who suddenly gets recruited into the military, much to the devastation of all his fans. As he prepares to give his final performance, his talent agent tries to save the company that put Conrad on the map while he's away fighting for the government.
Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
What do you get when an employee at a floral shop finds himself discovering one of the store's plants likes to feed on human blood? Well, that's what this horror comedy musical explores, thanks to the music of composer Alan Menken and a plethora of comedic actors (like Steve Martin, Jim Belushi and Bill Murray). The movie not only developed a cult following, but for those in New York City, you can see a stage version of this off-Broadway.
The Last Five Years (2014)
Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan star in the film based on the hit musical of the same name, telling the rise and fall of lovers Cathy Hiatt and Jamie Wallerstein. The only thing is, the show follows the relationship from opposite directions, with Jamie starting at the beginning and Cathy from the end. When the two eventually meet in the middle, the couple (and the audience) go through love, heartbreak, happiness, despair and all the emotions that come with failed romances.
The Sound of Music (1965)
In one of the most classic musical films to date, Julie Andrews plays a governess who wins the hearts of the Von Trapp family in Nazi-era Austria. The result is a beloved film that's both epic and heartwarming, complete with some of the most iconic musical numbers of all time.
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La La Land (2016)
A true love letter to Hollywood and the musical film genre, La La Land follows the dreamy romance of an aspiring actress (Emma Stone) and a jazz musician (Ryan Gosling) in golden-age L.A. It's a deeply beautiful film that'll leave you feeling breathless — especially at the spectacular soundtrack and profound ending.
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Les Misérables (2012)
Thematically powerful as it is emotionally stirring, this 2012 film adaptation of the classic musical Les Misérables (based on the Victor Hugo novel) has everything from an epic, multi-character story to actual live performances from the cast. Warning: You'll definitely want to keep your tissues on hand while watching this one.
Grease (1978)
Who could forget this joyous, hand-jiving delight of a musical film? Complete with a legendary cast and plenty of karaoke favorites (see: "You're the One That I Want"), Grease is undeniably one of the most enduringly popular flicks to date (and for plenty good reason!).
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Mama Mia! (2008)
For all fans of ABBA, this must-see jukebox musical film is a delightful adventure featuring some of the supergroup's most iconic and infectious hits (including "Dancing Queen," of course). Plus, if you just can't get enough, there's also a 2018 sequel that's just as — if not more — charming than the first.
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Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Set in early 19th century bohemian Paris, this vibrant, eclectic musical film from director Baz Luhrmann follows the secret romance of a young writer (Ewan McGregor) and a cabaret actress (Nicole Kidman) — all the while featuring popular songs from modern artists such as Madonna, Elton John, and The Police.
Annie (1982)
There's no other musical that will remind you that "the sun will come out tomorrow" than this charming, feel-good flick centered around Little Orphan Annie, who embarks on a mission to find her parents as she's chosen to live at the home of America's richest billionaire.
My Fair Lady (1964)
Audrey Hepburn plays the lovely Eliza Doolittle in this musical comedy-drama film that plays out like a modern-day Cinderella story, with Eliza transforming from a working-class flower girl (with an unforgettable Cockney accent!) into a refined and polished member of high society.
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Chicago (2002)
The winner of six Academy Awards including Best Picture, this glittering tale of Jazz Age murder features everything from a star-studded cast to some of the best performances of Chicago's popular musical numbers (including the dark and sultry "Cell Block Tango").
Funny Girl (1968)
Known for its iconic hit "Don't Rain on My Parade," Funny Girl has Barbara Streisand in her first movie debut — and sees her truly shine as the legendary vaudeville singer Fanny Brice working her way up to the Broadway stage.
Once (2007)
For fans of stirring romantic movies, this indie Irish musical film takes audiences through a moving tale of blossoming love, all the while charming them with some of the most eloquent and romantic songs (including the Oscar-winning "Falling Slowly").
Mary Poppins (1964)
Julie Andrews stars as our favorite magical nanny in her first feature film debut, enchanting viewers with flying umbrellas and the reminder that "a spoonful of medicine makes the medicine go down." A more recent sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, has Emily Blunt in a respectable reprisal.
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Into the Woods (2014)
Based on the legendary Broadway musical by Stephen Sondheim, this fantasy movie from Disney riffs on the classic fairy tale genre with imaginative creativity and an epic sense of adventure — not to mention memorable performances from a truly stellar cast.
West Side Story (1961)
There may be a new Steven Spielberg remake in the works for 2020, but this original West Side Story film from 1961 is undeniably the true classic, featuring impressive performances and dazzling visuals as it reimagines Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet in the streets of modern-day New York City.
Cabaret (1972)
In this magnificent musical film that put actress and singer Liza Minnelli on the map (and earned a total of eight Oscars!), a cabaret singer in Nazi-era Berlin meets a British academic and a German playboy — leading to a good old-fashioned love triangle and plenty of dazzling musical numbers.
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Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
The first adaptation of the classic Roald Dahl children's story, this captivating flick is as much a fantasy family movie as it is a wonderfully original musical. Gene Wilder enchants as the eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka — particularly with his timeless performance of "Pure Imagination."
Hairspray (2007)
As if there's even more reason to watch this feel-good hit about a dance-loving teen in Baltimore (besides the catchy, contagiously upbeat musical numbers, of course), it also features John Travolta as Tracy's mother Edna and Zac Efron as the handsome, swoon-worthy Link.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
Admittedly, sometimes we all need a break from the classically cheerful, feel-good musical flick — which brings us to Tim Burton's adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's macabre musical, starring Johnny Depp as the murderous lead character.
Funny Face (1957)
Audrey Hepburn and Fred Astaire charm in this film adaptation of the George Gershwin Broadway musical about a fashion photographer who meets a shy bookstore employee. You'll want to watch it just for the now-iconic fashion moments!
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The Greatest Showman (2017)
Inspired by the true story of P. T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman dazzles with its enchanting performances from an all-star cast — which includes Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, and Zendaya — and takes audiences through a high-flying tale of show business.
Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
For fans of legendary rock band Queen, this extraordinary music biopic follows Freddie Mercury (Rami Malek) on his inspiring rise to stardom — and truly enthralls audiences with its electrifying performances and music sequences.
Singin' in the Rain (1954)
Even if you haven't yet watched this charming musical romantic comedy film, you're probably familiar with its famous scene in which Gene Kelly dances and sings the titular song while spinning an umbrella in the rain. It's considered a true American classic for a reason!
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Dreamgirls (2006)
Beyonce and Eddie Murphy may wow in this marvelous and soulful adaptation of the Tony Award-winning musical, but the true star in the film is Jennifer Hudson, who dazzles in an Oscar-winning performance that launched her to international stardom.
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)
For fans of poignant and heart-wrenching romance, this colorful '60s French opera film is perhaps one of the loveliest musical masterpieces to date (plus, it's the film that inspired La La Land!).
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Perhaps one of the most well-known musical films of all time, The Wizard of Oz has endured decades as both a fascinating pop culture legacy and a classic family film that has enchanted countless generations with its magical journey and iconic tunes (see:"Somewhere Over the Rainbow").
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Pitch Perfect (2012)
Laugh-out-loud comedy meets modern music in this wildly popular flick that follows college student Beca (Anna Kendrick) as she joins her school's a cappella group. Even if you haven't watched the movie (or the two subsequent sequels), you'll definitely remember the viral "The Cup Song" from its day.
Rocketman (2019)
A thoroughly entertaining narrative isn't the only captivating element in this rock biopic that doubles as a heartfelt tribute to the life and music of Elton John — it's also the stellar soundtrack set to the musician's most beloved songs.
Enchanted (2007)
Both a homage to and a parody of the classic Disney princess genre, this witty film sees Giselle (Amy Adams) as a Disney princess who finds herself transported into real-world New York City. Of course, in classic Disney film fashion, it also features a number of delightful musical songs (as well as a true love's kiss!).
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An American In Paris (1951)
The winner of six Academy Awards back in its day (including Best Picture), this musical film combines George Gershwin's classic songs together with Gene Kelly's star power as he portrays an American veteran staying in Paris after the war to become a painter.
Beauty and the Beast (2017)
One of the many recent live-action films from Disney, Beauty and the Beast is a faithful adaptation that still feels fresh, largely in thanks to enchanting performances from the cast (including Emma Watson as a perfect Belle!).
The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Who could forget the legendary musical that is The Phantom of the Opera? This 2004 film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical brings "the music of the night" with its lavish costumes and set design combined with a rich, striking soundtrack.
Rent (2005)
Based on the successful '90s Broadway hit, Rent follows the story of a group of Bohemian friends living in New York City at the dawn of the 1990's — and even includes some of the original Broadway cast members (including Idina Menzel from Frozen) in a terrific stage-to-screen adaptation.
A Star Is Born (2018)
In this fourth remake of the original 1937 film, a seasoned musician (Bradley Cooper) discovers and falls in love with a struggling singer (Lady Gaga). The result is an emotionally powerful film that also earned Gaga her very first Oscar for her hit song "Shallow".
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