Music Lovers’ Friday Night Binge-Fest: Best Movie Musicals of All Time for You to Enjoy
Hey music lovers! We’ve got the perfect thing to round out your Friday night bender. Whether you’re a fan of old-school Hollywood classics or more recent offbeat 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 signing along and tapping your feet in no time. Whether you’re a musician 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 wonder Singing in the Rain is counted amongst the best movie musicals ever made.
The Sound of Music (1965)
This classic tells the story of Maria, a young woman who becomes a governess to the seven children of a widowed naval captain. With its catchy tunes and heartwarming story, it’s no wonder 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 well-loved as Aladdin. The tale of a street thief who finds himself in possession of a magical 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? For now, you can start singing along to Aladdin’s tracks. However, if you want an opportunity to be the one people sing along to and want to be immortalized through popular Disney movie songs, then let your passion guide you; enroll in music lessons so one day you can be a part of a magical musical production.
Dancer in the Dark (2000)
It is a slight anomaly on this list, as it is not strictly musical. However, the songs in Dancer in the Dark are so beautifully sung and choreographed that it would be criminal to leave them out. The story of Selma Ježková – a Czech immigrant who works as a factory worker to save up 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, a penniless writer, and Satine, an actress and courtesan. The soundtrack is full of some of the most famous show tunes ever written, including “Lady Marmalade” and “One Day I’ll Fly Away.” If you love musicals, you won’t want to miss this one.
Chicago (2002)
This Award-winning Academy 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 who was born with a disfigured face and grew up to become The Phantom of the Opera, haunting the Paris opera house. With its beautiful music and lavish set design, it’s easy to see why this movie has become such a classic.
Mamma Mia (2008)
Do you remember the songs from ABBA? Mamma Mia is a feel-good movie musical based on a famous stage play of the same name. Featuring singing and dancing by some of your favorite actors, it’s sure to get you in a good mood – no matter what day of the week it is. And all that gorgeous Mediterranean scenery certainly doesn’t hurt, either.
Frozen (2009)
You cannot have a list of movie musicals without mentioning Frozen. The story of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, who are forced to deal with family drama and an eternal winter is sure to keep you entertained from beginning to end. And don’t 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 sure to make you laugh and sing along.
Les Misérables (2012)
If you want something more intense, Les Misérables is a powerful movie musical that showcases 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 wonder this movie has become such a classic.
Pitch Perfect (2012)
If you’re in the mood for a more light-hearted movie, Pitch Perfect is a great choice. This movie follows the competitive world of collegiate Cappella groups, and it will have you laughing out loud from beginning to end.
Moanna (2016)
A movie musical about the story of a young girl who is determined to save her people: with an all-star cast and beautiful music, Moanna is perfect for anyone who loves adventure and heartwarming stories.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
If you’re looking for the latest, The Greatest Showman is definitely worth watching. Starring Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron, this film tells the story of P.T. Barnum – one of the most famous circus promoters in history.
Beauty and the Beast (2017)
We include the 2017 live-action retelling of Beauty and the Beast on this list because it was just so darn good. Emma Watson’s Belle is strong and compassionate, and Dan Stevens’ Beast is positively heartbreaking. The music in this movie is top-notch, from the opening number “Belle” to the show-stopping ballad “Tale as Old as Time.”
The Prom (2020)
This new 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 Ryan Scott Oliver, one of Broadway’s most in-demand composers, 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 sucked into a lie spiraling out of control. The music for Dear Evan Hansen is written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the same team behind La La Land’s music.
Tick Tick Boom (2021)
A movie is based on the off-Broadway musical about a young man who moves to New York City to chase his dreams of becoming a musician. The story follows his journey as he learns what it takes to make it to the big city. The music for Tick Tick Boom is written by Jonathan Larson, the genius behind Rent.
This Friday there will be a movie night like no other. Our mind-blowing list of movie musicals for you to binge on is bound to leave you humming catchy tunes for days to come. So get into your cozy PJs, grab a bowl of popcorn, and, more importantly, HAVE FUN!