Movie musicals used to have a bad rep (undeservedly so), but in a post Wicked world, we are so back.
Related: Let’s Talk About The Heart & Soul of Wicked: Part I (2024)
Wicked was one of the most anticipated film releases of 2024, introducing a whole new audience to that side of Oz and the magic of musical theatre. With its incredible cast and iconic press tour, everyone has been holding each other’s pinkies in anticipation for the sequel Wicked: For Good. The only problem? We have to wait until November before it comes out. So, if you need to scratch the theatre itch before then, here are five movie musical films to sing-along with in the meantime.
IN THE HEIGHTS (2021)
In The Heights follows the story of Usnavi (Anthony Ramos), a Bodega-store owner living in Washington Heights that yearns to fly back to the Dominican Republic and to chase his dreams. Despite this, he finds himself conflicted with leaving the community he has cemented himself to be a part of.
Also directed by Jon M. Chu, In The Heights is a celebration of culture and community. With energetic performances, incredible chemistry within the cast, and strong vocals, this film evokes the same magic as the stage musical.
MAMMA MIA! (2008)
If you’ve ever seen the pictures from the wrap party for Mamma Mia!, you’ll understand why they looked like they were having the best time of their lives after you watch this movie musical.
The film follows Donna (Meryl Streep), a woman who owns a hotel in the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi preparing for the wedding of her daughter, Sophie (Amanda Seyfried). In hopes of having her father walk her down the aisle, Sophie secretly invites three men from her mother’s past to attend her wedding.
Set to the music of ABBA, this movie will have you laughing, crying, and yearning for a vacation in Greece.
HAIRSPRAY (2007)
Hairspray is for those who love marching to the beat of their own drum. Set in 1960’s Baltimore, Hairspray is a movie musical that reminds us how powerful using our voice is.
Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky) is a plus-sized teen who auditions to be a part of The Corny Collins Show. After gaining popularity on the show, she aims to use her fame to end the racial segregation on the show. Aside from the bops and dance numbers, the film showcases the importance of stepping up for what is right, something we all need more than ever.
CHICAGO (2002)
Now let’s talk about a classic. Chicago follows Velma Kelly (Catherine Zeta-Jones), a nightclub performer who murders her husband. She is set to be represented by lawyer Billy Flynn (Richard Gere) during her trial. But when Roxie Hart (Renée Zellweger) is also represented by him after her arrest, she becomes a media sensation. With both women searching for fame, they try to outdo each other in the pursuit of celebrity status.
TICK… TICK… BOOM! (2021)
Andrew Garfield, the man that you are!
If you currently find yourself figuring out what to do with your life, this is the movie musical for you. Jonathan Larson (Andrew Garfield) is an aspiring composer on the brink of turning 30 in 1990’s New York. He struggles with figuring out his life, his career, and his relationships.
While we may not be in the exact situation Jonathan is in, we can all relate to feeling lost in a transitory phase in our lives. Whether it be figuring out what to do after graduation, or wondering what went wrong in a relationship, Tick… Tick… Boom! encapsulates all the struggles and joys of discovering who you are.
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