12 Best Musical Movies, Ranked

by

As a music and cinema enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by the magic of movies that blend song and dance. Musicals, in their most exceptional form, are a mesmerizing fusion of visual storytelling, melodious harmonies, and heartfelt emotions. Despite some less-than-stellar musicals like “Joker: Folie a Deux” or the 2019 remake of “The Lion King,” there’s no denying that this genre is brimming with cinematic gems that showcase why film is an art form to be cherished. With the rich history of musical movies, it can sometimes be challenging to distinguish the cream from the crop.

Here are twelve exceptional movie musicals, ranked from “least favorite” to “most favorite,” that serve as a fantastic guide for the diverse expressions of this genre. Some of these films stand out due to their stunning color palettes and cinematography, which could only be achieved during certain epochs in filmmaking history. Others are groundbreaking because they challenge the traditional conventions of musical films. Lastly, there are those that captivate audiences with an abundance of memorable tunes that remain stuck in one’s mind long after the movie ends. Regardless of their unique qualities, these twelve musical masterpieces are all heartfelt odes to one of cinema’s most rhythmic and emotionally resonant genres.

12. Mamma Mia!

High-quality films with a musical theme can come in various shapes and sizes. For instance, it could be a well-produced MGM musical from the mid-1900s or an adaptation of a stage musical such as the 2008 “Mamma Mia!” film, which uses ABBA’s music collection. “Mamma Mia!” is undeniably a lighthearted production with ambitious goals, allowing charming actors to frolic in the sun and belt out catchy melodies. Some might question if such simplicity can carry an entire movie, but with a cast led by Amanda Seyfried and Meryl Streep, as well as lively performances of songs like “Does Your Mother Know,” “Mamma Mia!” comes together quite nicely. It’s a fun-filled film with endearing rough edges, like Pierce Brosnan’s performance in the memorable “S.O.S.” musical number.

Nevertheless, there’s an undeniable allure in its dedication to absurdity, and the filmmaking of the dance-centric scenes exudes subtle skill. To top it off, the sunny Greek landscapes, vibrant costumes, and charmingly amorous ambiance contribute significantly to the movie’s captivating essence. Instead of a typical glamorous evening at a karaoke bar, this transforms into something truly unique. With the first musical number being the irresistibly energetic “Honey, Honey,” it’s hard not to find yourself tapping your feet to this enchanting film.

Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan

Director: Phyllida Lloyd

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 108 minutes

Where to Watch: Max

11. The Muppet Christmas Carol

It’s astounding to ponder the multitude of memorable musical pieces stemming from the different Muppet films, such as “The Rainbow Connection,” “Somebody’s Getting Married,” “Can You Picture That?”, and “Man or Muppet.” The Muppets franchise has been filled with creative and catchy lyrics that any songwriter would envy. Remarkably, a significant number of the best Muppet songs, as well as some of the greatest movie musical numbers in history, were born from “The Muppet Christmas Carol.” This soundtrack is so exceptional that even a cut track like “When Love is Gone” has a deep emotional impact. The poignant lyrics of this song tug at your heartstrings (particularly during Michael Caine’s powerful rendition), and the way it complements the final song “The Love We Found” is brilliant.

In the process, the tunes chosen for the timeless Christmas tale “The Muppet Christmas Carol” are simply brilliant, and the entire movie stands out as one of the finest among numerous film versions of “A Christmas Carol.” Michael Caine’s portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge is unparalleled on screen, and having Gonzo play Charles Dickens and Rizzo the Rat narrate the story in a Greek Chorus style adds an ingenious twist. Essentially, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” isn’t just a delightful holiday offering; it also showcases the impact that “Muppet” films have had on musical movies.

Cast: Michael Caine, Steve Whitmire, Frank Oz

Director: Brian Henson

Rating: G

Runtime: 85 minutes

Where to Watch: Disney+

10. Hedwig and the Angry Inch

As I found myself engrossed in the captivating “Wig in a Box” scene from “Hedwig and the Angy Inch”, I couldn’t help but feel how strange yet familiar the unusual events seemed. This sensation, I believe, is precisely what John Cameron Mitchell intended for audiences to experience as they journey through the bizarre yet realistic digressions in this extraordinary musical.

Mitchell doesn’t merely narrate the tale of Hedwig (played by him), but rather paints a vivid picture of her life using unconventional and poetic brushstrokes. The story of a rocker who transitioned from East Germany to America, discovering their true identity, is presented in a way that resonates deeply with the audience.

The pursuit of Hedwig’s ‘other half’, a universal longing for companionship, provides an emotional foundation that anchors the narrative. It’s this relatable desire that gives the story its gripping emotional depth.

Behind its eye-catching and audacious name lies a deeply emotional tale about love and a satisfying life, hidden within “Hedwig and the Angry Inch”. This tale is accompanied by an outstanding soundtrack that includes timeless hits such as “Origin of Love” and “Wig in a Box”. These songs perfectly embody the unique spirit of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch”.

Cast: John Cameron Mitchell, Michael Pitt, Andrea Martin

Director: John Cameron Mitchell

Rating: R

Runtime: 93 minutes

Where to Watch: Digital rental and purchase from Prime Video

9. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

As a movie-loving gamer, I’ve got to give kudos to Howard Hawks for his diverse cinematic journey that spanned across various genres, even legendary Westerns like “Rio Bravo.” Yet, in the spirited musical number “Ain’t Anyone Here For Love” from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” he tapped into the lively, zany spirit that defined his early masterpieces such as “Bringing Up Baby” and “His Girl Friday.” This electrifying blend of melodies and emotions saw Jane Russell crooning about her romantic turmoil amidst a gym full of muscle-bound fellows showcasing their workout routines. It’s a stunning display of memorable tunes and zany visual humor, truly embodying the essence of “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” a film brimming with laughter and dazzling musical sequences.

This production skillfully showcases the captivating chemistry between Russell and Marilyn Monroe, along with an impressive collection of vibrant, eye-catching outfits, such as the iconic pink dress Monroe wears in “Diamond’s Are A Girl’s Best Friend.” For those who appreciate this style of musical entertainment, “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” delivers a delightful feast, and they will undoubtedly leave feeling thoroughly satisfied.

Cast: Jane Russell, Marilyn Monroe, Charles Coburn

Director: Howard Hawks

Rating: Not Rated

Runtime: 119 minutes

Where to Watch: Digital rental and purchase from Prime Video

8. Once

Though I don’t know you yet, my feelings towards you deepen. This is all the more intriguing.” The song “Falling Slowly” from the movie “Once” beautifully expresses the sudden development of affection for a stranger. Musicals, known for their dramatic flair and idealized aspects, often manage to portray genuine emotions through impactful songs. “Once,” directed by John Carney and boasting a more authentic aesthetic compared to conventional musicals, is an exemplary case in point. This poignant soundtrack narrates the story of characters named Guy (played by Glen Hansard) and Girl (Markéta Irglová), who find themselves falling for each other despite numerous challenges to their love.

Carney skillfully captures a genuine and almost documentary-like feel in his filming technique, which intensifies the heartfelt musical connections between Guy and Girl. It’s delightful to witness a romantic relationship blossom amidst the ever-present flaws of reality. The tunes seem spontaneous, as if crafted by casual musicians, yet they carry such profound lyrical depth. Observe the poignant effect of the very first lines in “Falling Slowly”.

Cast: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová

Director: John Carney

Rating: R

Runtime: 85 minutes

Where to Watch: Hulu and Disney+

7. West Side Story (2021)

Most remakes often lack creativity, but when Steven Spielberg is involved, they’re a different story. The 2021 version of “West Side Story,” a classic musical, is a stunning example of what can be achieved when artistic vision meets technical skill. Spielberg and cinematographer Janusz Kamiński have done an incredible job with the camera angles, beautiful natural lighting, and textures that feel real to touch. The result is visually spectacular.

In this rephrased version, I’ve tried to keep the original meaning intact while using simpler language and a more conversational tone.

The lavish visuals in this production really shine, particularly during the captivating musical scenes. Pieces such as “America” and “Dear Officer Krupke” seem more vibrant than ever due to creative direction, exceptional editing, and camera work that allows audiences to fully appreciate the stunning imagery. To top it off, Spielberg’s sincere handling of the material adds a sense of trust in both the emotional depth and memorable performances from actors like Rachel Zegler. In essence, Spielberg’s “West Side Story” breathes new life into an old musical classic.

Cast: Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Ariana DeBose

Director: Steven Spielberg

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 156 minutes

Where to Watch: Disney+

6. Little Shop of Horrors

The influence and artistry of songwriter Howard Ashman remains everlasting, as his melodies such as “Part of Your World” and “Be Our Guest” continue to echo through time. Even when people reminisce these tunes, Ashman’s genius will endure. Some of his most significant works can be found in the stage show “Little Shop of Horrors,” which was later transformed into a 1986 film directed by Frank Oz. The songs penned by Ashman are truly captivating, with tracks like “Somewhere That’s Green” striking a perfect balance between humor and poignancy – as lines like “On our big, enormous, 12-inch screen” bring laughter while encapsulating the modest aspirations of a fictional 1950s housewife dreaming of a green pasture.

In a moving portrayal, Audrey’s longing for a better life in “Somewhere That’s Green” stirs up an emotional response that’s hard to ignore. The heartfelt way Ashman captures this unfulfilled emotion is captivating. “Little Shop of Horrors,” with its unique blend of dark humor (a man-eating plant!) and catchy tunes, resonates deeply. This is particularly true in Oz’s film adaptation, where the combination of artistic brilliance, outstanding practical effects (Audrey II remains stunningly realistic even today), and a superb cast (Rick Moranis as Seymour is a spot-on choice) elevate this reimagining of a ’60s B-movie to new heights. This demonstrates the impact of a creative mind like Ashman’s.

Cast: Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, Steve Martin

Director: Frank Oz

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 94 minutes

Where to Watch: Digital rental and purchase from Prime Video

5. The Wizard of Oz

1929 marked the debut of “The Broadway Melody” as one of Hollywood’s pioneering movie musicals, though it was a rather poorly received film with unconventional camera work and forgettable tunes. However, just a decade later in 1939, the American film musical reached its zenith of creativity with “The Wizard of Oz.” In this short span, cinematic musicals evolved from being awkward to featuring some of the most timeless musical performances. To this very day, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” continues to stir emotions. Furthermore, the vibrant color scheme of Oz (especially in contrast to the early black-and-white Kansas scenes) was a precursor to the stunning visuals that movie musicals could offer. This genre was capable of showcasing breathtaking locales like the Yellow Brick Road or the resplendent Emerald City unlike any other cinematic realm.

Over 90 years since its initial performance, it’s astonishing how the costumes, set design, and stage presentation for “The Wizard of Oz” continue to shine brilliantly. Iconic characters such as The Cowardly Lion or The Scarecrow remain endearingly timeless. This musical legend surpassed the era of “The Broadway Melody” long ago and still outshines many contemporary movie musicals today.

Cast: Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley

Director: Victor Fleming

Rating: G

Runtime: 102 minutes

Where to Watch: Max

4. The Young Girls of Rochefort

During the 1960s, the French New Wave, driven by pioneers such as Agnes Varda, Jean-Luc Godard, and François Truffaut, was revolutionizing the concept of cinematic narration through groundbreaking visual pieces. Despite this, the French cinema of the ’60s still had space for something lighter, yet no less artistically significant. Jacques Demy’s “The Young Girls of Rochefort” outshone more intellectual ’60s French films like “Breathless,” with its vibrant and captivating aesthetics. The film follows twin sisters Delphine (Catherine Deneuve) and Solange (Françoise Dorléac), who yearn for love in their lives, leading them to the town of Rochefort, France, in search of it.

In Demy’s careful supervision, Rochefort is a place adorned with apartment buildings boasting bright blue windows and frequently painted pink walls. The locals are often seen in vibrant outfits of orange and pink, and you might unexpectedly encounter Gene Kelly on a typical day. Despite repeated references to a murderer’s spree in Rochefort, Demy manages to create an irresistibly cheerful ambiance that permeates the film. The dancing, costumes, sets, and heartwarming performances are all beautifully executed. Among the many iconic films produced by 1960s French cinema, “The Young Girls of Rochefort” stands out as one of the country’s most significant cinematic achievements from this period.

Cast: Catherine Deneuve, Françoise Dorléac, Gene Kelly

Director: Jacques Demy

Rating: G

Runtime: 125 minutes

Where to Watch: Max

3. RRR

Renowned filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli has consistently shown a vastly inventive mind in cinema, as demonstrated by his directorial works prior to 2022, such as “Eega.” However, he truly elevated his artistic prowess with the musical action spectacle “RRR,” which features thrilling sequences and is rich in imaginative detail. Capturing its essence in a single phrase can be challenging, but essentially it presents fictionalized accounts of historical figures Komaram Bheem (portrayed by N.T. Rama Rao Jr.) and Alluri Sitarama Raju (played by Ram Charan) embarking on an adventure reminiscent of “Point Break,” while battling British colonizers in 1920s Delhi. Despite juggling multiple elements, Rajamouli’s skill never falters, as evidenced by his exceptional vision for the film’s musical scenes, with the standout number being “Naatu Naatu,” which takes place halfway through the narrative.

The lively and skillfully choreographed song “Naatu Naatu” from the film “RRR” is so full of energy that it makes you feel like you can’t help but get up and dance along. This award-winning musical number is just one example of the exceptional music found in the movie, as other standout tracks like the emotional “Dosti” and joyful end credits song “Etthara Jenda” are equally memorable. Not a single moment of “RRR” seems half-hearted, reflecting director Rajamouli’s unwavering artistic dedication that can be felt in every musical sequence of the film.

Cast: N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt

Director: S.S. Rajamouli

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 182 minutes

Where to Watch: Netflix

2. The Red Shoes

In the realm of cinema, no filmmakers have ever used color as masterfully as Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger. Their brilliant use of vibrant tones is evident throughout their body of work, but it’s their 1948 production “The Red Shoes” that might be their most impressive demonstration of this skill. This film, based on the Hans Christian Andersen tale of the same name, showcases a breathtaking visual spectacle. The character of ballet dancer Vicky Page (played by Moira Shearer) grapples with the choice between her dancing career and romantic affections, leading to a cinematic wonder that leaves audiences spellbound. Scenes of Page dancing passionately to enchanting music are rendered in a kaleidoscope of colors, ranging from melancholic blues to radiant golds, creating an unforgettable visual experience.

In this production, the bright hues (reflected in the costumes) are accentuated by sharply defined staging and a powerful emotional intensity that amplifies feelings to their maximum. The Red Shoes lacks subtlety, but that’s what makes it extraordinary. Just like great musicals, it doesn’t hide its emotions and has no qualms about expressing them loudly and proudly. It’s similar to how we’re told to keep our feelings in check daily, but this production lets those emotions fly free without any apologies.

Cast: Anton Walbrook, Marius Goring, Moira Shearer

Director: Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger

Rating: Not Rated

Runtime: 133 minutes

Where to Watch: Tubi and Criterion Channel

1. Singin’ in the Rain

In contrast to what one might expect from the law of averages, not a single musical number in “Singin’ in the Rain” falls short or disrupts this 1952 film. Numbers like “Make ‘Em Laugh,” “Moses Supposes,” “Good Morning,” “Fit as a Fiddle (And Ready for Love)”, and the title track, when performed by stars such as the unparalleled Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, are not only entertaining but seem tailor-made for this production. Though these songs had been featured in other classic musicals prior to “Singin’ in the Rain,” their inclusion here makes them an integral part of this film directed by Kelly and Stanley Donen. In a movie that never runs out of rhythm or entertainment, these old tunes feel as fresh and vibrant as a newly-picked daisy.

In the lively footwork of Kelly, the indelible dialogue performances by Jean Hagen as Lina Lamont, and the captivating chemistry between actors like Kelly and Donald O’Connor, “Singin’ in the Rain” is overflowing with enchanting elements. It’s also a remarkable embodiment of musical films’ distinctive rhythmic charm. With its exceptional soundtrack alone, “Singin’ in the Rain” stands as an unparalleled cinematic masterpiece and undeniably the summit of musical filmmaking.

Cast: Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, Donald O’Connor

Director: Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen

Rating: G

Runtime: 103 minutes

Where to Watch: Max

Read More

2025-05-29 22:32