Top 10 Movies that Would Make Amazing Broadway Shows

There’s nothing like a good show on Broadway – and these ones would be great! Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’re counting down our picks for the top 10 movies that would makeamazing Broadway musicals.

For this list, we’re taking a look at films with great stories and iconic set pieces that were destined to be adapted for musical theater. However, we’ve decided to exclude movies that have already gotten the Broadway treatment like “Toy Story” and “Aladdin,” as well as original movie musicals like “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Frozen” because we really want to think outside the box on this one.

#10: “Dazed and Confused” (1993)

Just as “Rock of Ages” did such a wonderful job at capturing the essence of ‘80s rock, a “Dazed and Confused” musical could define ‘70s rock. Richard Linklater’s enduring coming of age comedy has a built-in immortal soundtrack with hits like “Slow Ride,” “Rock and Roll All Nite,” and “Paranoid” peppering the track list. Even if the stage adaptation doesn’t take the jukebox musical route, there are numerous possibilities for original songs too: couldn’t you just see David Wooderson singing a ballad about how high school girls eternally stay the same age?

#9: “Titanic” (1997)

There actually has been a Broadway musical inspired by the sinking of the Titanic, written by Maury Yeston and Peter Stone. Of course, although it debuted on Broadway the same year as the Hollywood film, that interpretation had nothing to do with James Cameron’s blockbuster motion picture. With that said, Jack and Rose’s love story would work beautifully as a musical. Envision the playlist featuring songs like “King of the World,” “I’m Flying,” and “It’s Been an Honor Playing with You.” And what better way to close out the show than with “My Heart Will Go On”?

#8: “Planet of the Apes” (1968)

While “Planet of the Apes” on Broadway has unlimited potential, we’d love nothing more than to see the production resemble a certain classic “Simpsons” episode. Sadly, Phil Hartman wouldn’t be able to reprise his role as Troy McClure as George Taylor. The show must go on, however, and songs like “Dr. Zaius” will live forever. With action, music, and dramatic plot twists, this play would have everything for anybody that loves legitimate the-A-ter. If this musical were to flop, well…then you’ll have made a monkey out of us.

#7: “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan” (1982)

Admit it: every time Captain Kirk screams, “Khaaaaaaan!,” you half expect him to burst into song. “Wrath of Khan” is full of moments that provide perfect segues into music, from Khan’s villainous monologue, to Spock’s noble sacrifice, to Kirk’s heartfelt eulogy. Scotty would naturally get his emotionally charged bagpipe solo as well. Trekkies and the Broadway set may be two different breeds of fandom, but a musical version of “Khan,” might just bring together the best of both worlds. It would also bring new meaning to the term, “Space Opera.”

#6: “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001)

Every Wes Anderson picture is kind of like a musical, just without any musical numbers. In the spirit of a musical, “The Royal Tenenbaums” exists in a world that feels incredibly detached from reality, but still somehow relatable. Anderson’s eccentric tone and the quirky nature of theater could truly go hand in hand; the big question for this stage play is do we go with original numbers or borrow from the film’s timeless rock soundtrack? Either way, “The Royal Tenenbaums” seems born for Broadway.

#5: “The Princess Bride” (1987)

Although various sources have made noises that one is in the works, it’s actually surprising that a Broadway adaptation of “The Princess Bride” hasn’t been done yet; between “Into the Woods” and the various stage productions from Disney, fantasies and musicals are usually a match made in heaven. “The Princess Bride” would be no exception with ready-made song premises: we can totally see Westley singing “As You Wish,” Inigo Montoya singing “Prepare to Die,” or Vizzini singing “Inconceivable.” The opportunities are practically gift wrapped to whoever takes on this Broadway endeavor, guaranteeing a winning musical of storybook love.

#4: “Mean Girls” (2004)

Just as “Legally Blonde” became a surprise Broadway smash, we believe that “Mean Girls” could have the same effect. The movie already gave us a hilarious rendition of “Jingle Bell Rock” and, given the film’s array of quotable dialogue, there’s no shortage of original song concepts – like ditties about sluts, fetch, or ESPN. Just imagine if Tina Fey herself and her composer husband Jeff Richmond helmed this dream musical – actually, you might not have to imagine much longer as reports have surfaced claiming they’re working on it as we speak. Also, would a Jenna Maroney cameo also be too much to ask for?

#3: “Star Wars” original trilogy (1977-83)

The “Star Wars” universe has been expanded upon in almost every medium. Why not let Broadway present its take on the perennial story? Finding a lyricist to compliment John Williams’ iconic musical score wouldn’t be easy, but the final result could be absolutely epic. As Disney now owns “Star Wars,” they could always hire Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz to compose a few tunes about Luke yearning for more in life or Leia pining for her Nerfherder to return. And you can bet on Darth Vader getting one hell of a villain song!

#2: “Black Swan” (2010)

As it’s based on the classic ballet “Swan Lake,” “Black Swan” is tailor-made for musical theater. While the film overflows with haunting imagery, a musical adaptation could take Darren Aronofsky’s vision to a whole new level. Just imagine what a choreographer could do with this material on stage, depicting Nina’s insecurities and paranoia through dance. The songs have just as much potential with numbers about the loss of innocence, the loss of sanity, and the loss of virginity. If you thought the movie was disturbing, the show would bring nightmares to life, and the critics out in droves!

Before we close the curtain on our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
- “The Breakfast Club” (1985)
- “Beetlejuice” (1988)
- “Taken” (2008)
- “Bridesmaids” (2011)
- “Back to the Future” (1985)

#1: “Friday the 13th” (1980)

Sure, it may sound like an odd choice for Broadway, but there’s so much one could do with “Friday the 13th” on stage. For example, what if Jason were a tragic figure, seeking love? Will mother Voorhees find her revenge? Could it outdo “Sweeney Todd” as the most violent musical of all time? Could slutty teens and pothead jocks be the new Von Trapp family singers? Could virtuous virgins be the Greek chorus of today? All we know is we need Andrew Lloyd Webber on this, stat.

Do you agree with our list? What movie do you want to see on Broadway? For more entertaining Top 10s published every day, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.