15 Musical Movies With The Best Songs

A great musical movie can make you hum its tunes long after the credits roll. The best ones weave catchy songs into stories that stick with you, whether they’re belted out on stage or sung in the streets.

These 15 films stand out for their incredible soundtracks, blending heart, humor, and melody. From classic showstoppers to modern hits, they’ll have you singing along and craving a rewatch.

15. ‘West Side Story’ (1961)

This vibrant retelling of Romeo and Juliet follows rival gangs in 1950s New York, with songs like ‘Maria’ and ‘America’ stealing the show. Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer lead a talented cast, but Leonard Bernstein’s score is the star. The dance-heavy scenes add energy. It’s a timeless blend of romance and tragedy.

‘West Side Story’ delivers songs that are both catchy and emotional. Its unforgettable melodies make it a must for music lovers.

14. ‘Mamma Mia!’ (2008)

Set on a Greek island, this jukebox musical uses ABBA’s hits like ‘Dancing Queen’ and ‘Super Trouper’ to tell a story of love and family. Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried shine, with Pierce Brosnan’s shaky singing adding charm. The sunny vibe is infectious. It’s pure feel-good fun.

‘Mamma Mia!’ is a sing-along blast with songs you can’t resist. Its upbeat energy makes it perfect for a lively movie night.

13. ‘The Sound of Music’ (1965)

Julie Andrews stars as Maria, a nun-turned-governess bringing music to a strict Austrian family. Songs like ‘My Favorite Things’ and ‘Do-Re-Mi’ are iconic. The lush Alps setting and heartfelt story won five Oscars. Andrews’ voice carries every scene.

‘The Sound of Music’ is a classic with songs that feel like old friends. Its charm and melodies will have you humming along.

12. ‘Grease’ (1978)

John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John play high school sweethearts in this ‘50s-set musical. Hits like ‘Summer Nights’ and ‘You’re the One That I Want’ are pure fun. The retro vibe and catchy tunes make it a fan favorite. It’s all about young love and cool vibes.

‘Grease’ delivers songs that stick in your head for days. Its high-energy soundtrack is perfect for a nostalgic sing-along.

11. ‘Chicago’ (2002)

This jazzy musical follows two murderesses, played by Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones, vying for fame in 1920s Chicago. Songs like ‘Cell Block Tango’ and ‘All That Jazz’ sizzle with attitude. The flashy choreography and sharp wit won six Oscars. It’s a bold, brassy ride.

‘Chicago’ is packed with showstopping numbers that demand attention. Its catchy songs make it a standout for musical fans.

10. ‘Moulin Rouge!’ (2001)

Baz Luhrmann’s dazzling musical blends pop hits like ‘Your Song’ with original tracks in a tragic love story set in 1890s Paris. Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman’s chemistry is electric. The vibrant visuals and bold soundtrack are unforgettable. It’s a wild, romantic spectacle.

‘Moulin Rouge!’ mixes modern music with classic drama. Its passionate songs will have you singing and swooning.

9. ‘A Star Is Born’ (2018)

Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga star in this emotional tale of a rising singer and a fading star. Songs like ‘Shallow’ and ‘Always Remember Us This Way’ are raw and powerful. Gaga’s voice and Cooper’s direction make it soar. It’s a heartbreaking modern classic.

‘A Star Is Born’ delivers a soundtrack that hits every emotion. Its anthems will inspire you to belt them out loud.

8. ‘La La Land’ (2016)

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone play dreamers chasing love and fame in Los Angeles. Songs like ‘City of Stars’ and ‘Audition’ are dreamy and heartfelt. The colorful visuals and jazz-infused score won six Oscars. It’s a love letter to dreamers everywhere.

‘La La Land’ is a modern musical with songs that linger. Its romantic and wistful tunes make it a perfect sing-along pick.

7. ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ (1952)

Gene Kelly stars as a silent film star navigating Hollywood’s shift to talkies. Songs like ‘Good Morning’ and the title track are pure joy. Kelly’s iconic dance in the rain is legendary. The humor and charm make it a timeless gem.

‘Singin’ in the Rain’ is a burst of happiness with unforgettable songs. Its upbeat melodies will lift your spirits instantly.

6. ‘The Greatest Showman’ (2017)

Hugh Jackman plays P.T. Barnum, building a circus empire in this vibrant musical. Songs like ‘This Is Me’ and ‘The Greatest Show’ are anthems of empowerment. The ensemble cast, including Zendaya and Zac Efron, shines. It’s a spectacle of heart and hustle.

‘The Greatest Showman’ delivers songs that inspire and energize. Its bold soundtrack makes it a go-to for musical fans.

5. ‘Cabaret’ (1972)

Liza Minnelli stars as a singer in 1930s Berlin, with songs like ‘Maybe This Time’ and ‘Cabaret’ carrying raw emotion. The gritty story and Bob Fosse’s direction make it unforgettable. Minnelli’s performance won an Oscar. It’s a dark but dazzling musical.

‘Cabaret’ blends catchy tunes with heavy themes. Its powerful songs will have you singing while reflecting on the story.

4. ‘The Wizard of Oz’ (1939)

Judy Garland’s Dorothy journeys through Oz, singing classics like ‘Over the Rainbow’ and ‘Follow the Yellow Brick Road.’ The colorful fantasy and heartfelt story are iconic. Garland’s voice and the whimsical cast make it timeless. It’s a magical adventure.

‘The Wizard of Oz’ is a family-friendly musical with songs everyone knows. Its enchanting melodies will spark joy in any viewer.

3. ‘Mary Poppins’ (1964)

Julie Andrews plays the magical nanny bringing joy to a London family. Songs like ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ and ‘A Spoonful of Sugar’ are pure delight. The mix of live-action and animation is charming. Andrews’ performance won an Oscar.

‘Mary Poppins’ is a whimsical classic with songs that stick. Its playful soundtrack will have you singing and smiling.

2. ‘Hairspray’ (2007)

This upbeat musical follows Tracy Turnblad, played by Nikki Blonsky, dancing her way to fame in 1960s Baltimore. Songs like ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’ and ‘Good Morning Baltimore’ are pure energy. The cast, including John Travolta and Michelle Pfeiffer, shines. It’s a celebration of inclusion.

‘Hairspray’ delivers a soundtrack that’s impossible not to dance to. Its catchy, joyful songs make it a musical standout.

1. ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’ (1971)

Gene Wilder stars as the eccentric candy maker in this whimsical musical. Songs like ‘Pure Imagination’ and ‘The Candy Man’ are unforgettable. The quirky story and colorful world captivate all ages. Wilder’s charm ties it all together.

‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’ is a sweet treat with songs that linger. Its magical soundtrack will inspire you to sing along.

Which musical movie has your favorite songs, or did I miss one you love? Drop your picks in the comments!