I have watched a plethora of movie musicals, with it being one of my favorite genres, if not my all-time favorite. So, whether you’re unsure where to begin or are simply looking for something fresh to watch, I’ve got you covered. Below is a list of my top 10 movie musical recommendations that I haven’t covered in this blog yet (plus some honorable mentions), along with my favorite song from each.
In no particular order, here are 10 of my favorite movie musicals:
- The Greatest Showman (2017)
Available to watch on Disney+.
Favorite Song: “Rewrite the Stars”
Based on the life of P.T. Barnum, this musical commemorates the dawn of show business and the visionary who, from humble beginnings, crafted a spectacle that captivated audiences worldwide. Like La La Land, I saw this movie musical in theaters at least five times (also with my friend, Aislinn). It is safe to say I was obsessed – but with Zendaya, Zac Efron, Hugh Jackman, and Michelle Williams, how could you not?
- In the Heights (2021)
Available to watch on Max.
Favorite Song: “When the Sun Goes Down”
Experience the vibrant energy of Washington Heights in Jon M. Chu’s musical adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit. Follow the dreams and struggles of a tight-knit community as they chase their aspirations against the backdrop of a scorching New York summer. I remember seeing this in the Summer of 2021, my summer before heading to college, bringing back happy memories. Plus, you won’t be able to get these songs out of your head!
- West Side Story (2021)
Available to watch on Disney+ and Max.
Favorite Song: “Maria”
Enter the world of star-crossed lovers in 1950s New York City in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story. The original from 1961, starring Natalie Wood is a classic, but the 2021 Steven Spielberg remake reconnected me with the musical, so it’s a special one for me.
- Chicago (2002)
Available to watch on Pluto TV.
Favorite Song: “Nowadays / Hot Honey Rag”
Step into the sultry, jazz-infused world of Chicago, where fame meets crime and corruption. Directed by Rob Marshall, this adaptation of the Broadway hit follows two aspiring performers, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly. I was familiar with Chicago’s popular song, “Cell Block Tango”, but it wasn’t until I was in a production of Chicago during high school, that I fell in love with the musical, and thus the movie.
- Hairspray (2007)
Available to watch on Youtube.
Favorite Song: “Without Love”
Get ready to groove to the rhythm of 1960s Baltimore in Hairspray, a lively musical directed by Adam Shankman. Follow Tracy Turnblad’s journey as she dreams of dancing on TV. You may have heard the popular song, ”Good Morning Baltimore”. Like that song, Hairspray includes songs you can’t get out of your head, while also highlighting important themes of its time period.
- The Princess and the Frog (2009)
Available to watch on Disney+.
Favorite Song: “Almost There”
Experience Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, a modern fairy tale set in New Orleans. Follow Tiana, a waitress with dreams of owning a restaurant, and Prince Naveen, cursed to be a frog, in this enchanting musical adventure directed by Ron Clements and John Musker. No matter how old I am, I will always love this movie.
- White Christmas (1954)
Available to watch on Youtube.
Favorite Song: “Sisters”
White Christmas is a heartwarming holiday musical from 1954, featuring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney (George Clooney’s aunt!), and Vera-Ellen. It follows two veterans and a sister act as they come together to save a local Vermont inn through song and dance. I first learned about this musical when I performed “Sisters” with my theatre group. When I learned the song was from White Christmas, I decided to watch it. It’s now an annual Christmas-time watch for my mom, sister, and me.
- tick, tick … BOOM! (2021)
Available to watch on Netflix.
Favorite Song: “30/90”
Discover Jonathan Larson’s inspiring story, the creative genius behind the Broadway phenomenon Rent, in tick, tick … BOOM! Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, it delves into Larson’s pursuit of writing and composing a Broadway show, amidst the challenges of approaching 30, presenting a compelling narrative of creativity and passion. I was in awe the first time I watched this. It’s a unique musical about an extraordinary person you can’t help but root for. Be prepared to be moved by a story that will tug at your heartstrings.
- The Sound of Music (1965)
Available to watch on Disney+.
Favorite Song: “Do-Re-Mi”
This timeless, beloved musical masterpiece continues to captivate audiences around the world. Directed by Robert Wise, this iconic film follows the story of Maria, a spirited young woman who brings joy and music into the lives of the Von Trapp family amidst the setting of Nazi-occupied Austria. This is a classic, another one of my favorites to watch during the holidays.
Available to watch on Disney+.
Your favorite romanticized depiction of high school! Did I dress up as Sharpay for Halloween when I was little? DUH! These movies are very nostalgic for me, (and the majority of my generation), as we group up watching them, but they just do it for me every time! Even almost 20 years later, I still sing along to the soundtrack. I love them all, but my favorite of the three films is High School Musical 2, with High School Musical 3: Senior Year as a close second.
HSM 1 Favorite Song: “We’re All in This Together”
HSM 2 Favorite Song: “Gotta Go my Own Way”
HSM 3 Favorite Song: “High School Musical”
Honorable Mentions: Tangled (2016), Hercules (1997), Coco (2017), Mean Girls (2024) & Hamilton (2020) – my 8th-grade self would never forgive me for not including it in this list.
Well, there ya go! My top 10 (plus a few) recommended movie musicals. I hope I’ve inspired you to settle in, grab popcorn, and indulge in a good ol’ movie musical.
Sources:
Malia Paganucci 
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