Rhiannon Elizabeth Irons
It’s no secret that I love musicals. There’s something wholesome about watching a beloved character walk down the street while a crescendo of sounds erupt around them as they burst into song. Musicals are a feel-good movie genre, and one that, in today’s day and age, is criminally underrated.
While I’m sure that theatre fans the world over rejoice at the thought of attending a Broadway show, today’s Top 13 looks strictly at the musicals made for the big screen. So, as awesome as Wicked is, at the time of writing this article, there has not been a movie adaptation of it so it won’t qualify for a place.
To be considered for this list, the musicals have to have had an impact on box office and/or pop culture.
So, without further ado, let’s shine a spotlight away from the stage, and onto the big screen with my Top 13 Big Screen Musicals.
13: 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 and a jazz musician in the golden-age Los Angeles. Played by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling respectfully, our two leads sing and dance their way into our hearts in a beautiful film that will leave you feeling breathless.
The soundtrack to La La Land is spectacular while the cinematography is breathtaking. It’s no wonder this was an Oscar nominated movie. And as for that profound ending… You’ll just have to watch it for yourself.
12: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)
Admittedly, sometimes we all need a break from the classically cheerful, feel-good musical flick. Enter director Tim Burton with his adaptation of Stephen Sondheim’s macabre musical, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
Starring Johnny Depp as the murderous lead character, this film boasts a talented cast including Helena Bonham Carter, Timothy Spall, Sacha Baron Cohen, and the late Alan Rickman, ensuring that this musical will be the closest shave you’ll ever have.
11: Annie (1982)
There’s no other musical that will remind you that “the sun will come out tomorrow” quite like 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.
Aileen Quinn, Albert Finney, and Carol Burnett lead the cast which included Tim Curry and Bernadette Peters and did so splendidly. This classic tale that dominated stages around the world was given a very worthy film adaptation that needs to be seen.
10: Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Set in early 19th century bohemian Paris, this vibrant, eclectic musical film from Baz Luhrmann follows the secret romance of a young writer and a cabaret actress, played by Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman.
But what made Moulin Rouge! stand out was the killer soundtrack, featuring popular songs from modern artists such as Madonna, Elton John, and even The Police. And who could forget the chart-topping rendition of "Lady Marmalade" with Mya, Pink, Lil Kim, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliot?
9: High School Musical (2006)
The modern-day Romeo & Juliet just without the tragic ending and with a plethora of catchy earworm songs, High School Musical dominated the Disney channel upon its release. Introducing the world to Zac Efron as basketball star Troy Bolton, and Vanessa Hudgens as nerdy, academically gifted Gabriella Montez, HSM was all anyone could talk about.
Spawning two sequels, a television spin off, and a USA wide musical tour, this became one of Disney’s most lucrative franchises, teaching viewers of all ages that “we’re all in this together.”
8: Les Misérables (2012)
Thematically powerful as it is emotionally stirring, this 2012 film adaptation of the classic Les Misérables has everything from an epic, multi-character story to actual live performances from the cast.
Based on the Victor Hugo novel, this film is a rollercoaster of emotions as we fight, dream, hope, and love with the cast. Warning: You’ll definitely want to keep your tissues on hand while watching this one.
7: Mamma Mia (2008)
For all fans of ABBA, this is a must-see jukebox musical film. A delightful adventure featuring some of the supergroup’s most iconic and infectious hits, including "Dancing Queen", "Money, Money, Money", and "Mamma Mia", of course.
Following the story of a bride-to-be trying to find her real father, the movie is so uplifting that you can’t help but sing along. Plus, it has Meryl Streep. Enough said.
6: Singin’ In The Rain (1952)
A silent film star falls for a chorus girl just as he and his delusionally jealous screen partner are trying to make the transition to talking pictures in 1920’s Hollywood is the premise for this big screen feature.
The original jukebox musical that captured the attention of the world, and whose popularity has continued to grow long after its release, Singin’ In The Rain gave us an often parodied, but never duplicated, Gene Kelly dance number. And don’t get me started on Donald O’Conner’s incredible “Make ‘Em Laugh” routine. Watching this film is sure to leave you with a glorious feeling.
5: West Side Story (1961)
There may be a new Steven Spielberg remake out, but for this list, we’re going back to the original. Undeniably the true classic, West Side Story features impressive performances and dazzling visuals as it reimagines Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet in the streets of modern-day New York City.
With a gorgeous cast including Natalie Wood, George Chakiris, and Richard Beymer, it’s not hard to see how West Side Story became an award-winning film. 10 Academy Awards including Best Picture, just shows that the Jets and the Sharks will be around for a long time to come.
4: Grease (1978)
Who could forget this joyous, hand-jiving delight of a musical film? And seriously, was it really a surprise that it would make this list? To be honest, I think the biggest surprise for you all is that it’s not at number one.
Complete with a legendary cast that includes John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Jeff Conway, and Stockard Channing, Grease is undeniably one of the most enduring popular movies to date. It’s soundtrack alone conjures up images of bad karaoke as we’ve all belted out “You’re The One That I Want” or “Summer Nights” at some point in our lives. And if you’ve subscribed to Under The Covers, you’ll discover new renditions of both of those songs in episode 4….
3: Chicago (2002)
The winner of six Academy Awards including Best Picture, this glittering tale of Jazz Age murder features everything you could want in a musical. A star-studded cast, a banging soundtrack, and an undeniable place in pop culture history.
Its dark, sultry take on Chicago’s popular musical numbers are some of the best performances ever seen. Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renee Zellweger, and Richard Gere stepped up and showed the world that there is an art to murder… and all that jazz.
2: Cabaret (1972)
In this magnificent musical film that put actress and singer Liza Minnelli on the map, and earned a total of eight Academy Awards, a cabaret singer in Nazi-era Berlin meets a British academic and a German playboy. This leads to a good old-fashioned love triangle and plenty of dazzling musical numbers.
A true classic of the genre, Cabaret is a must-see feature for any fans of musicals.
1: The Sound of Music (1965)
Coming in at number one is a film that has truly stood the test of time. Continually rerun on public television, and available readily on most streaming platforms, The Sound of Music has left its mark on the world with music and lyrics by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.
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 heart-warming, complete with some of the most iconic musical numbers of all time.
Honourable Mentions
Funny Girl (1968) – Barbara Streisand’s movie debut.
Once (2007) – An indie Irish musical taking us on a journey of blossoming love.
Hairspray (2007) – John Travolta returns to the musical world as Edna Turnblad.
Mary Poppins (1964) – Julie Andrews is always our favourite nanny.
Into The Woods (2014) – A stellar cast takes on fairy tales.
The Greatest Showman (2017) – Hugh Jackman shows Hollywood he’s a triple threat.
Newsies (1992) - Christian Bale in a musical? Yes please!
Fame (1980) - We'll always remember this musical as it lives on forever.
Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008) - Zydrate comes in a little glass vial...
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