Top 10 Movie Musicals That Are Timeless
#10: “Grease” (1978)
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The story of Sandy and Danny’s high school romance is familiar to generations of musical fans. With a colorfully nostalgic take on the 1950s, this classic musical highlights the difficulties of navigating teenage relationships. Sandy’s soaring soprano on “Hopelessly Devoted to You” and Danny’s machismo energy in “Greased Lightnin'” highlight why we’ve always loved this odd-couple’s romance. As we follow their ups and downs, we’re treated to show-stopping choreography in big numbers like “Summer Nights” and "Born to Hand Jive". The recent passing of Olivia Newton-John has made the film even more dear to fans. As the years go by, this memorable ensemble will always be together in our hearts.
#9: “Enchanted” (2007)
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By gently poking fun at movies like “Cinderella” and “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, this modern fairy tale fully embraces Disney’s sometimes ridiculous romance tropes. Do you really want to call the local animals in to help you clean? Of course, because cockroaches can be our friends too. Inspiring music written by Disney alums Menken and Schwartz lifts our spirits and helps us believe in everyday magic. You might see a little of yourself in the optimistic Giselle as she sings “That’s How You Know” to strangers in the park. Then again, you might feel more like Robert, who questions the oddity of everyone knowing the words to the song. Either way, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting story.
#8: “Hairspray” (2007)
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Whenever the world shifts and changes, it’s easy to connect with this film full of underdogs and revolutionaries. Set at the beginning of the 1960s, the music is primarily bouncy and joyful. Underneath the shiny glitz are characters who push against society's norms. The story follows Tracy Turnblad as she seeks a spot on a local dance show. She defies the showbiz stereotype and continues to break rules by championing social progress. Amazing vocalist Nikki Blonsky is supported by a charismatic cast of scene stealers including Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer, Zac Efron, Christopher Walken, and John Travolta. The messages in this film are as strong as the belted tunes and swinging dances. We can’t stop the beat on this classic, and we don’t want to.
#7: “Moulin Rouge!” (2001)
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This jukebox musical is a mad dream whose characters are painted with melodramatic strokes and sequins. Although it’s set in the late 1800s and early 1900s, it makes use of popular songs from across many decades. Just change the style, ramp up the drama, and add compelling choreography, and you’ve got musical numbers that feel like they’ve danced out of a fantasy. Oversaturated colors and magical elements are connected so seamlessly that we never know if it’s real or an artistic hallucination. As the tragic couple sings the transcendent “Come What May” while an enthralled audience watches, we’re reminded of just how much love and music can overcome.
#6: “Fiddler on the Roof” (1971)
Can you keep the beliefs and customs of past generations and still move into modern times? The story of Tevye and his family is itself a tradition for many musical lovers. The songs live in our minds and hearts with themes that still feel relevant today. Tevye dances through his barn as he dreams of being a rich man. His daughters perform “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” as they wonder about their future husbands. The stirring chords of “Sunrise, Sunset'' epitomize the endings and beginnings parents must confront as their children grow up. A musical that encourages respecting your past, living for today, and hoping for your future is definitely worth preserving.
#5: “The Wizard of Oz” (1939)
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Judy Garland has graced our screens with iconic performances like “The Boy Next Door” from “Meet Me in St. Louis.” However, Dorothy singing “Over the Rainbow” is one of the most iconic moments in movie musical history. This story of a Kansas girl’s journey down the yellow brick road fully embraces emotions in a way that’s honest and sincere. Whether it’s the need for love, intelligence, bravery or family, we’re compelled to root for the characters as they seek to achieve their goals. When Dorothy finds that she had it in her to make her dreams come true all along, it gives us all hope. For that, we’ll keep journeying to Oz for years to come.
#4: “Chicago” (2002)
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This version of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly’s sensational story jazzes up the stage musical and sets it loose on the big screen. Even though Bob Fosse, who played a big part in creating the original Broadway production, passed away long before the film’s 2002 premiere, his distinctive jazz choreography is honored throughout. The satirical look at celebrity is notably supported by the strong, sultry voices of Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger and Queen Latifah. The movie combines the music and edgy story of the original with lush locations and glamorous costumes. In doing so, it makes Bob Fosse’s stunning stage production accessible to everyone looking for a little bit of wicked fun. If you need more Fosse afterwards, just check out “All That Jazz!”
#3: “The Sound of Music” (1965)
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Julie Andrews was practically perfect in every way as the magical nanny, Mary Poppins. However, Maria’s voice soaring through the Austrian countryside fully solidified the actress’ place in movie musical history. The songs from this classic film are so well known that they have become essential parts of everyday life. Are you struggling in music class? "Do-Re-Mi" will help you. Are you feeling frightened? "My Favorite Things" is all you need. As we journey along with the von Trapp family, we’re also given essential glimpses into the tumult of Austria’s annexation into the German Reich. Captain von Trapp may part with his home country through "Edelweiss," but we’ll never say so long or farewell to this film.
#2: “West Side Story” (1961)
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A colorful Steven Spielberg remake of this film danced into our lives in 2021. (x-ref) However, the 1961 version is where we first fell for the Jets and the Sharks on the big screen. This tragic musical is a reimagining of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” taking place on the streets of New York City. We follow Tony and Maria, star-crossed lovers on opposite sides of a racial gang war. The movie features poignant solos and duets like “Maria” and "Tonight." But it’s the solid harmonies, energetic dances, and fierce messages in numbers like "Gee, Officer Krupke" and “America” that make the production extra memorable. Shakespeare’s original tale of division and prejudice continues to be told, and we’re sure this haunting musical will persist as well. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Annie” (1982) Carol Burnett, Tim Curry & Bernadette Peters “Easily” Steal the Show “Mamma Mia!” (2008) The Addictive ABBA Songs Keep Us Tapping Our Feet “Rent” (2005) Many Seasons Later, the Themes Still Resonate “Dreamgirls” (2006) With Such Stunning Vocals, This Movie Isn’t Going Anywhere “Cabaret” (1972) It’s Subversive, Sassy & Satisfying
#1: “Singin' in the Rain” (1952)
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This quintessential movie musical is a charmed example of small successes that add up to create perfection. Debbie Reynolds plays a spunky ingenue, charming the hearts of the entire audience. And Donald O'Connor’s work in "Make 'Em Laugh" is the ultimate example of comedic timing and physicality. Meanwhile, the perfectly-executed choreography in “Moses Supposes” has inspired dancers for decades. And the romantic leads’ swoon-worthy chemistry during “You Were Meant for Me” is truly something to behold. Plus, honestly, is there any more recognizable moment in musical film history than Gene Kelly splashing with giddy abandon in the rainy street? This movie gives us a “glorious feeling” and we’re not going to give up that happiness anytime soon.
