Much like their music, there is a romantic poetry which often rhymes across the varied lives of disparate musicians. Underlying similarities develop, involving popularity and passion that strains and builds relationships at once. This is frequent among those with equal shares of ambition and talent. Such things often invite a heightened degree of life for musicians.
But even in fame, their basest conflicts can be accessible. One of the most appealing things about a musician’s biopic is the illustration of their personality—to relate, to invest. And music is indeed one of the great universal languages, a bare expression that can entertain and enlighten. Here are ten of the best movies about musicians and their storied careers.
Selena
This film had a number of sensitive issues to confront, but fortunately, it does so tastefully. This is arguably Jennifer Lopez’ greatest acting on screen, both nuanced and filled with verve. Her performance is magnetic and respectful enough for the titular musician. Likewise, the story unfolds with the same authentic attitude. And that approach, which addresses flawed relationships and a joyous passion for music alike, is crucial to success. The film is somewhat underrated, depicting the familiar rise to stardom with thematic maturity, and a great sense of culture and love. And best of all, that takes precedent to the tragedy.
Bohemian Rhapsody
This imperative story represents an under served community in Hollywood, with grace, skill, and joy. Freddie Mercury’s sexuality is central to the plot, and brilliantly portrayed. Of course, Mercury’s undeniable talent leaves little conflict at the onset, wherein he simply falls right into success. But the ensuing struggles are utterly captivating. When Bohemian Rhapsody provides a microscope unto Mercury’s relationships, it truly dazzles. His parents, friends, and lovers are compelling people with multiple facets on screen. It is the smallest of details that entertain the most. And if that isn’t enough, Queen’s music rocks throughout the entire runtime.
A Star Is Born
This story resurfaces from the farthest reaches of time, easily revisited for the echoing themes in its foundation. The romance between a falling and rising star generates a very palpable tragedy. And this iteration proves that it deserves its existence. Even with direct, meta dialogue, as described by the enormously talented Sam Elliot.
Issues of self-destructive behavior and pained relationships are painted with an unusual intimacy, throughout. A Star is Born is a quiet, brooding film that reflects its director. But the film certainly celebrates music, as a raw incarnation of the two protagonists itself. The story absolutely radiates with enthusiasm, nuance and an assured aesthetic purpose.
Immortal Beloved
Beethoven is one of the most famous musicians of all time, a bold and innovative composer with instantly recognizable masterpieces. But Gary Oldman carries the responsibility of his image with tremendous skill. The film smartly decides to focus on Beethoven’s hearing loss, an instantly sympathetic plight. Particularly as an obstacle to Beethoven’s obvious genius. The plot itself toys with history freely, especially given the disputed recipient of the letter. But this gem deserves more attention for its romanticism. While it doesn’t quite indulge nuance, it certainly has great flair for the dramatic.
Straight Outta Compton
Fans of the group will be totally satisfied, as the movie explores their core friendships and musical origins. Both of which are exhilarating and moving, throughout. The artists struggle with brave public statements, and by extension, the film confronts these timely issues with equal determination. But the sweeping screenplay ultimately spans all facets of life, including a great sense of humor and touching poignancy alike. The loss and strained friendships are particularly affecting because the film captures such an arresting level of truth. Although, this is also bolstered by gripping performances. It is an absolute travesty that the movie did not receive the Academy attention it should have.
Walk The Line
Johnny Cash had a very unique voice, and a remarkable career. And the Joker himself, Joaquin Phoenix, summons incredible courage for the role. Not only for the raw singing alone, but for approaching Cash’s particular grief. Cash’s music is accompanied by two distinguishable components—the tragedy of his brother, and his love for June. The film does not shy away from Cash’s flaws, and Phoenix’s performance is absolutely electric.
That signature, quiet moodiness is a perfect fit in dramatic moments. Yet he also envisions the spirited passion on stage that earned Cash so many loyal fans. By his shoulders alone, the film stands above most biopics in general. But the supporting cast is also up to par, and the movie is always filled with exciting music.
Ray
It’s uncanny how many similarities this story shares with Johnny Cash. The rise to popularity is accompanied by drug problems and infidelity, all while brilliant music is born. Ray Charles is even haunted by the death of his own brother. Jamie Foxx literally becomes Charles, with his mannerisms and a talented singing voice of his own. This is possibly Foxx’s best work. He captures a tormented man in drama, infectious charisma in performances, and friendly charm throughout. To watch Charles lose his sight is heartbreaking, but so is the deterioration of his stability. However, every groundbreaking achievement of Charles is not lost. And neither is a terrific compilation of his meaningful, thrilling music.
Whiplash
Ambition is difficult to capture on screen, and this may be its purest portrayal. By that approach, a preference for jazz or even music is no prerequisite to be thrilled, here. The building urgency, competition, and antagonism are all utterly palpable, and more in the spirit of a suspense film. Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons are positively magnetic, including the sense of polar friction between each other.
Although the message of the film is questionable by Simmons’ ultimate victory, he is still painted as an intriguing villain. It all feels akin to the cutthroat industry of haute cuisine, and the like. But the common struggles of any aspiring artist have never been so thoroughly represented.
Amadeus
Again, this tale of a brilliant classical composer simply disregards verisimilitude in favor of producing a compelling drama. So, if a knowing audience isn’t prepared to let that go, they won’t enjoy the film. But its alternate reality is undeniably engaging, perhaps more so with the driving Salieri rivalry. And the film certainly explores the essence of music itself with a surprisingly accessible profundity. It is a very ambitious, lengthy story, with mesmerizing music and artistic purpose. Mozart himself is presented in such an unexpected fashion, a juvenile and carefree personality that defies his genius. That laugh is so blaring and strange. But every performance at hand is superb. Ultimately, the romance of music is rarely defined with such radiance. It hardly requires the audience to even be familiar with, or fond of classical music to enjoy.
The Pianist
True, the controversial director is a difficult issue to overcome in accepting this film. But the screenplay itself, of a separate artist, should not be punished. Nor should this important piece of history. This story of a musician surviving the transformation of his home by the ugliness of World War II is astonishing. It is one of the most harrowing experiences imaginable, and unfolds on screen with gut-wrenching verity. This is undoubtedly Adrien Brody’s greatest performance, which is no small statement. He creates an effective avatar for the stirring autobiography, nuanced with convincing piano skills. The music serves as a unique point of view, a glum beauty. And that self-contrast perfectly fits the scenario of a talented musician amidst the horrors of the Nazis. This story is absolutely necessary for everyone to witness.
