Great Films About Music and Musicians

Description: This film tells the story of a young Irish man who forms a soul band in Dublin, showcasing the power of music to unite and inspire, even in the face of personal and cultural challenges.

Fact: The film was adapted from Roddy Doyle's novel of the same name. The band in the movie performs classic soul hits, which became popular again after the film's release.

Description: Oliver Stone's biopic of Jim Morrison and The Doors captures the band's wild lifestyle, their music, and Morrison's tragic end. It's a vivid portrayal of the '60s rock scene and the price of fame.

Fact: Val Kilmer did his own singing in the film. The Doors' keyboardist Ray Manzarek served as a technical advisor.

Description: This film tells the story of Ray Charles, from his childhood to his rise as a musical legend, highlighting his struggles with blindness, drug addiction, and the music industry. It's a testament to the power of music to overcome adversity.

Fact: Jamie Foxx won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ray Charles. The film features several of Charles' hit songs, performed by Foxx.

Description: A biopic of Johnny Cash, focusing on his early life, his rise to fame, and his tumultuous relationship with June Carter. The film captures the essence of Cash's music and his personal demons, offering a deep dive into the man behind the music.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon performed all their own singing in the film. Reese Witherspoon won an Oscar for Best Actress for her role as June Carter.

Description: A biopic of Ian Curtis, the lead singer of Joy Division, this film explores his life, his music, and his tragic end, offering insight into the punk and post-punk music scene of the late '70s.

Fact: The film was shot in black and white, reflecting the starkness of Curtis's life. Sam Riley, who played Curtis, had never acted before and was discovered while performing in a band.

Description: This remake tells the story of a seasoned musician who discovers and falls in love with a struggling artist, helping her rise to fame while his own career falters. It's a poignant look at love, fame, and the music industry.

Fact: Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper performed all the songs live during filming. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This film chronicles the life of Freddie Mercury and the band Queen, capturing their rise to fame, their iconic performance at Live Aid, and Mercury's personal struggles. It's a celebration of music, friendship, and the enduring legacy of one of rock's most flamboyant figures.

Fact: Rami Malek won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury. The film's title is taken from Queen's famous six-minute song of the same name.

Description: Set in the folk music scene of the early 1960s, this film follows a struggling musician over the course of a week, capturing the essence of the Greenwich Village music scene and the struggle for artistic recognition.

Fact: The film features original music by T Bone Burnett and Marcus Mumford. The character of Llewyn Davis is loosely inspired by folk singer Dave Van Ronk.

Description: This film explores the intense relationship between a young jazz drummer and his ruthless instructor, delving into themes of ambition, perfectionism, and the cost of greatness in music.

Fact: The film's director, Damien Chazelle, was himself a jazz drummer. The final scene was filmed over 20 times to capture the perfect performance.

Description: While not strictly about musicians, this film celebrates the dreamers of Los Angeles, including an aspiring actress and a jazz pianist. It's a love letter to the city, to music, and to the pursuit of dreams.

Fact: The film's opening number, "Another Day of Sun," was filmed in one continuous take. It won six Academy Awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle.