The 20 Greatest Musical Movies of All Time Ranked

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Ignacio Weil

Entertainment - February 25th 2025, 19:40 GMT+1

Cropped About — About this gallery:

For this list, we focused on films with original music to create a *Top 20*, so don’t expect jukebox musicals like *Moulin Rouge* here. We also made the decision to skip animated films – otherwise, this list would basically just be *Disney* movies. Additionally, we decided to leave out theatrical productions that haven’t made it to the big screen, so no *Hamilton* (for now, anyway?).

Think we missed a must-see musical movie? Drop it in the comments below! We’re all ears (and jazz hands).

Cropped tick tick BOOM — 20. Tick, tick… BOOM! (2021)

Andrew Garfield takes on the role of Jonathan Larson, the genius behind *Rent*, in this musical biopic that hits all the right notes. Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the film is a love letter to the theater, complete with catchy tunes and heartfelt performances. Garfield's portrayal is so convincing, you might just forget he's British. The movie's vibrant energy and emotional depth make it a must-watch for anyone who’s ever dreamed of standing ovations. And hey, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to write a musical while your apartment is literally falling apart, this one's for you. | © Netflix

Cropped The Rocky Horror Picture Show — 19. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

Time to do the *Time Warp* again! This cult classic is the musical equivalent of a glitter bomb – bright, bold, and impossible to ignore. With Tim Curry's unforgettable performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the film invites you to a party where the dress code is "anything goes." It's a wild ride through science fiction, horror, and rock 'n' roll, all wrapped up in a fishnet stocking. Whether you're a virgin to the show or a seasoned pro, *The Rocky Horror Picture Show* promises a night of fun, freedom, and a whole lot of sass. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Hairspray — 18. Hairspray (1988)

Set in the 1960s, *Hairspray* is a musical that tackles issues of race and body image with humor and heart. Ricki Lake stars as Tracy Turnblad, a plus-sized teen who dreams of dancing on a local TV show. Directed by John Waters, the film is a vibrant celebration of individuality and acceptance. With its catchy soundtrack and colorful characters, *Hairspray* is a feel-good film that proves you can dance your way to change. And remember, it's not just about the hair – it's about the heart. | © New Line Cinema

Cropped Wicked — 17. Wicked (2024)

Before Dorothy landed in Oz, there was Elphaba and Glinda, and their story is nothing short of magical. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, *Wicked* takes us on a journey through the untold story of the witches of Oz. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film brings the Broadway sensation to the big screen with dazzling visuals and powerhouse performances. It's a tale of friendship, rivalry, and discovering that sometimes, being "wicked" isn't so bad after all. So, grab your broomstick and get ready to be spellbound. | © Universal Pictures

Cropped Little Shop of Horrors — 16. Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

Who knew a carnivorous plant could steal the show? In this musical comedy, Rick Moranis plays Seymour, a florist who discovers Audrey II, a plant with a taste for human flesh. Directed by Frank Oz, the film blends horror, comedy, and catchy tunes into a delightful concoction. With appearances by Steve Martin and Bill Murray, it's a star-studded affair that's as quirky as it is entertaining. *Little Shop of Horrors* proves that sometimes, the best way to get ahead in life is to feed your problems to a giant, singing plant. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Grease — 15. Grease (1978)

Oh, *Grease –* where high school romance meets a rock 'n' roll fantasy. Sandy and Danny, played by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, serve up chemistry so strong it practically bursts out of the screen. With catchy songs like “Summer Nights” and “You’re the One That I Want,” the film has earned its place in musical history. But it’s not just about the love story; it’s also a heart-thumping celebration of 1950s culture. Between the slicked-back hair, the leather jackets, and the dances that make you want to snap your fingers, *Grease* is the word. So, dust off your poodle skirts and slip on those Grease Lightning shoes. | © Paramount Pictures

Cropped Singin in the Rain — 14. Singin' in the Rain (1952)

*Singin' in the Rain* is arguably the happiest movie ever made – like, could Gene Kelly be any more charming? With his iconic, umbrella-in-hand dance number, this classic gives us a behind-the-scenes peek into Hollywood’s transition from silent films to talkies. With impeccable choreography, razor-sharp humor, and more tap dancing than you can shake a stick at, it’s a sparkling tribute to the magic of movies. The film blends romance, comedy, and toe-tapping tunes, and did we mention Gene Kelly? His smile could melt the screen. Honestly, it's a love letter to the entire world of cinema. | © MGM

Cropped All That Jazz — 13. All That Jazz (1979)

If *All That Jazz* were a person, it would walk into the room wearing sequins and jazz hands, and it would never leave. Directed by Bob Fosse, the film is a rollercoaster ride through the life of a Broadway choreographer who’s equal parts genius and self-destructive. Roy Scheider’s portrayal of the tortured artist Joe Gideon is a whirlwind of dazzling choreography, sexual tension, and jazz music that’ll get under your skin. But don’t let the darkness fool you – this movie is an electrifying celebration of performance, ambition, and the sheer drive to create art. You’ll leave the theater humming “Everything Old Is New Again,” and possibly questioning your life choices. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES — 12. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell in *Gentlemen Prefer Blondes* are the ultimate duo: glamorous, confident, and ready to teach us a thing or two about love, diamonds, and, well, the fine art of getting what you want. Monroe’s “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” is the number everyone remembers, but the entire film is a lavish treat of comedy, romance, and musical numbers that never slow down. It’s a story about two women, one very blond and the other not so much, navigating the world of rich men, gold-digging, and champagne. Trust us – this one has more sparkle than the jewelry it’s all about. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Dreamgirls — 11. Dreamgirls (2006)

*Dreamgirls* hits you like a whirlwind, blending soul, heartache, and killer vocals. Based loosely on the rise of the Supremes, it follows the journey of three women – Effie, Deena, and Lorrell – who rise to stardom in the 1960s music scene. With Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, and Anika Noni Rose leading the charge, the performances are electric, especially Hudson’s career-defining “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going.” The movie's glitzy, dramatic, and filled with tunes you’ll be singing long after the credits roll. Get ready for high notes, high drama, and a whole lotta glitter. | © DreamWorks Pictures

Cropped Gigi — 10. Gigi (1958)

Ah, *Gigi –* the film that taught us that sometimes the best way to find love is to have an impromptu makeover and a bit of light Parisian romance. Leslie Caron stars as the charming Gigi, a young woman being groomed for a life of luxury in 1900s Paris. Enter Louis Jourdan, the suave, rich suitor who, well, doesn't realize he's falling in love with her until it’s nearly too late. With songs like “Thank Heaven for Little Girls” (yikes, but still catchy), *Gigi* is a delightful romp full of glamour, love, and a little bit of French flair. It’s the kind of movie that’ll make you want to go to Paris, wear frilly dresses, and contemplate your own romantic future. | © MGM

Cropped My Fair Lady — 9. My Fair Lady (1964)

*My Fair Lady* is the original makeover story, and Audrey Hepburn shines in the role of Eliza Doolittle, a cockney flower girl with dreams of refinement. Enter Professor Henry Higgins (Rex Harrison), the linguistics genius who bets he can turn her into a proper lady. What follows is a delightful blend of transformation, romance, and a whole lot of songs that you’ll be humming for days – yes, even “I Could Have Danced All Night.” It’s an elegant musical that explores class, love, and language, all while proving that, when done right, a makeover montage is the height of entertainment. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped Chicago — 8. Chicago (2002)

If you’ve ever wanted to know what happens when you mix jazz, crime, and show business, *Chicago* is the answer. With Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renée Zellweger leading the charge, the film is an electrifying look at two women who use their charm and cunning to wiggle their way out of jail, all while keeping their names in the spotlight. Full of glitz, glamour, and, of course, jazz hands, *Chicago* brings the razzle-dazzle to the world of crime. Plus, Richard Gere? We didn’t know he had *that* in him. This film is a reminder that, no matter how bad things get, there’s always room for a catchy song and a tap routine. | © Miramax Films

Cropped La La Land — 7. La La Land (2016)

Ah, *La La Land*, the movie that made us fall in love with jazz, heartache, and Los Angeles all over again. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone play two dreamers who meet and fall in love in the City of Angels, each struggling to achieve their artistic aspirations. With breathtaking cinematography, a score that you’ll find yourself singing in the shower, and a bittersweet ending that still hurts (but in the best way), *La La Land* is the kind of musical that makes you believe in the magic of chasing your dreams – just don’t be surprised if you also end up questioning whether love and ambition can ever truly coexist. | © Lionsgate

Cropped The Wizard of Oz — 6. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

*The Wizard of Oz* is more than just a movie – it’s an experience. Dorothy (Judy Garland) and her trusty dog Toto get swept up in a tornado, only to land in the magical land of Oz, where she embarks on a journey to meet the all-powerful Wizard. Along the way, she makes some unforgettable friends: a scarecrow, a tin man, and a lion. From the iconic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” to the wickedly unforgettable Wicked Witch of the West, this film is timeless. It’s a classic tale of finding your way home, with all the joy, color, and magic that makes you believe that maybe – just maybe – there’s no place like it. | © Warner Bros.

Cropped West Side Story — 5. West Side Story (1961)

*West Side Story* is a Romeo and Juliet for the Broadway crowd – except with more jazz hands and fewer poison-filled vials. Set in the rough streets of New York, this classic musical tells the tale of two rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, who, naturally, can't help but break into song and dance at every dramatic turn. With its unforgettable choreography, unforgettable songs like “Tonight” and “I Feel Pretty,” and a tragic love story that never gets old, *West Side Story* proves that no matter how intense the rivalry, there’s always room for a dance number in the middle of the street. Watch out for the snaps, because these Jets mean business! | © United Artists

Cropped The Sound of Music — 4. The Sound of Music (1965)

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a nun and a widower have seven children and take to the hills for an impromptu sing-along, *The Sound of Music* has the answer. Julie Andrews stars as the lovable Maria, a postulant who turns into a governess and, eventually, the wife of Captain Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). From the iconic opening sequence of “The Hills Are Alive” to “Do-Re-Mi” and “My Favorite Things,” this film is full of wholesome tunes that will have you swaying in your seat. It's practically impossible not to sing along, even if you're nowhere near the Alps. And remember: nothing makes a musical like children in matching outfits and an inspiring true story. | © 20th Century Fox

Cropped Fiddler on the Roof — 3. Fiddler on the Roof (1971)

Set in the Russian village of Anatevka, *Fiddler on the Roof* takes you through the life of Tevye, a Jewish milkman with five daughters and a head full of life lessons. With songs like “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” the film captures the trials, triumphs, and trials again of a family navigating love, tradition, and societal change. The choreography may not involve a literal fiddler, but the music will certainly make you want to dance – and reflect on your own family’s traditions. *Fiddler* is a moving and humorous celebration of how love and family can weather the most difficult storms. Spoiler alert: the last song will leave you emotionally wrecked. | © MGM

Cropped Mary Poppins — 2. Mary Poppins (1964)

*Mary Poppins* is the nanny of every childhood dream: practically perfect in every way. Julie Andrews delivers an unforgettable performance as the magical, whimsical nanny who floats into the lives of the Banks family with her umbrella and a bag full of surprises. With unforgettable songs like “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” and “A Spoonful of Sugar,” *Mary Poppins* is a colorful, delightful romp through magical London. And let’s not forget Dick Van Dyke’s dancing chimney sweep, who is, for the record, the best thing to happen to rooftops since... well, *Mary Poppins*. It’s the kind of movie that will make you wish your nanny could fly – and also that your umbrella could do more than just protect you from rain. | © Walt Disney Studios

Cropped Amadeus — 1. Amadeus (1984)

*Amadeus* is the musical biopic you didn’t know you needed but can’t imagine living without. Starring Tom Hulce as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, this film is a fiery portrayal of genius, envy, and the music that changed the world. It’s also a deliciously dramatic look at Mozart’s complicated relationship with fellow composer Antonio Salieri, who narrates the tale of Mozart’s rise and fall. With stunning period costumes, beautiful performances, and, of course, some of the best music ever composed, *Amadeus* is a decadent indulgence of classical music, with a side of artistic rivalry and a dash of existential crisis. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a genius and have someone else take all the credit, this one's for you. | © Orion Pictures

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Musical movies have captivated audiences for generations, blending unforgettable songs, dazzling choreography, and compelling stories into cinematic masterpieces. From classic golden-age Hollywood hits to modern musical blockbusters, the genre has continually evolved, offering something for every music lover. In this article, we’re diving into the 20 greatest musical movies of all time, ranked according to their impact, cultural significance, and, of course, the unforgettable performances that have made them timeless.

Whether you’re a fan of Broadway adaptations, feel-good song-and-dance films, or heartwarming stories set to music, this ranking will guide you through the best that the musical movie genre has to offer. So, grab your popcorn and let’s explore the world of musical films that have made an indelible mark on the silver screen.