Hey, music fans! We’ve got the perfect thing to round out your Friday night. Whether you’re a fan of classic Hollywood standards or newer hits, we’ve got something for everyone. From Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire to Hugh Jackman and Anne Hathaway, these movie musicals will have you singing along and tapping your feet in no time.
Whether you’re a performer yourself or just passionate about great music, we promise you won’t be disappointed. So grab the remote and get ready for a night of pure entertainment!
Singing in the Rain (1952)
This classic Hollywood musical is a must-watch for any fan of the genre. Starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, it tells the story of a movie star who has to make a quick transition from silent films to talkies. With its catchy songs and memorable dance scenes, it’s no surprise that Singing in the Rain is counted among the best movie musicals ever made.
The Sound of Music (1965)
This classic tells the story of Maria, a woman who becomes a governess to the seven children of a widowed naval captain. With its catchy tunes and heartwarming story, it’s no surprise this movie has become such an iconic part of American culture. From “Do-Re-Mi” to “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” you’ll be singing along with Julie Andrews all night long.
Aladdin (1992)
Few Disney movies are as beloved as Aladdin. The story of a street thief who finds himself in possession of a magic lamp is packed full of memorable songs and thrilling action scenes. If Abu can dance to “Prince Ali,” then so can you! And who could forget the hilarious Genie, voiced by the incomparable Robin Williams? In the meantime, you can start singing along to Aladdin’s songs. But if you’d love a chance to be the one people sing along to someday, let your passion guide you: sign up for music lessons, and maybe one day you’ll be part of a wonderful musical production yourself.
Dancer in the Dark (2000)
This is a slight departure on this list, since it isn’t strictly a musical. But the songs in Dancer in the Dark are so beautifully sung and choreographed that it would be a crime to leave it out. The story of Selma Ježková, a Czech immigrant who works as a factory worker to save money for her son, is heartbreaking but ultimately inspiring.
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
This dazzling film set in Paris at the turn of the 20th century tells the love story between Christian, an impoverished writer, and Satine, an actress and courtesan. The soundtrack contains some of the most popular show songs ever written, including “Lady Marmalade” and “One Day I’ll Fly Away.” If you like musicals, you won’t want to miss this one.
Chicago (2002)
This Academy Award-winning film is set in Jazz Age Chicago and tells the story of two women, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who murder their lovers and get caught up in a sensationalized media circus. The music is fantastic, with classic songs like “All That Jazz” and “Razzle Dazzle.”
The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
This movie adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit Broadway musical tells the tragic story of Erik, a man born with a disfigured face who grows up to become the Phantom of the Opera, haunting the Paris opera house. With its gorgeous music and lavish set design, it’s easy to see why this film has become such a classic.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Remember the songs from ABBA? Mamma Mia! is a feel-good movie musical based on the famous stage play of the same name. Featuring singing and dancing from some of your favorite actors, it’s sure to put you in a great mood, no matter what day of the week it is. And all that beautiful Mediterranean scenery certainly doesn’t hurt, either.
Frozen (2013)
You can’t have a list of movie musicals without mentioning Frozen. The story of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, who have to deal with family drama and an endless winter is sure to keep you entertained from beginning to end. And let’s not forget, Elsa made letting go way cooler than any superpower.
The Muppets (2011)
This feel-good movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves The Muppets. It follows the gang as they put on a show to save their historic theater from being demolished. Featuring all of your favorite Muppet characters, plus some new ones, it’s guaranteed to make you laugh and sing along.
Les Misérables (2012)
If you want something more intense, Les Misérables is a powerful movie musical that tells the story of Jean Valjean, an escaped convict who becomes a hero of the French Revolution. With its tragic and emotional story, it’s no surprise this movie has become such a classic.
Pitch Perfect (2012)
If you’re in the mood for something more lighthearted, Pitch Perfect is a great choice. This movie follows the competitive world of collegiate a cappella groups, and it will have you laughing out loud from start to finish.
Moana (2016)
A movie musical about the story of a girl determined to save her people: with an all-star cast and beautiful songs, Moana is perfect for anyone who loves adventure and heartfelt stories.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
If you’re looking for something more recent, The Greatest Showman is absolutely worth watching. Starring Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron, this movie tells the story of P.T. Barnum, one of the most famous circus promoters in history.
Beauty and the Beast (2017)
We’re including the 2017 live-action retelling of Beauty and the Beast on this list because it was just so good. Emma Watson’s Belle is strong and compassionate, and Dan Stevens’ Beast is genuinely heartbreaking. The songs in this movie are first-class, from the opening number “Belle” to the show-stopping ballad “Tale as Old as Time.”
The Prom (2020)
This movie is about a high school student who gets banned from the prom for being gay. A group of out-of-town theater stars decides to come to her rescue and put on a show at the school gym. The Prom features music by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin, two of Broadway’s most in-demand writers, so you know it’s going to be good!
Dear Evan Hansen (2021)
This movie is based on the smash Broadway hit about a young man with social anxiety who gets drawn into a spiraling lie. The songs for Dear Evan Hansen are written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the same team behind La La Land’s music.
Tick, Tick… Boom! (2021)
This movie is based on the off-Broadway musical about a young man who moves to New York City to chase his dream of becoming a composer. The story follows his journey as he discovers what it takes to make it in the big city. The music for Tick, Tick… Boom! was written by Jonathan Larson, the genius behind Rent.
This Friday, there’s going to be a movie night like no other. Our wonderful list of movie musicals for you to binge on is bound to leave you humming catchy songs for days to come. So get into your comfy pajamas, grab a bowl of popcorn, and most importantly, have a good time!
