Since the days when sound was first introduced to movies, there has been an abundance of musical motion pictures. This genre has its origins in theatre. In fact, a large number of stage musicals have been adapted into films. After nearly a century this genre is still fairly popular. There are several musical films that are worth examining further.
Singing In The Rain
American singer and dancer Gene Kelly is often considered the greatest musical star of all time. Singing In The Rain stands out as one of his best movies. It follows a group of friends who attempt to put on a Broadway show. Along the way, they have to deal with various obstacles including casting and writing.
Grease
Set in a high school during the 1950s this musical stars John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. A new student played by Newton-John falls in love with a rebellious car mechanic. The tracks featured in the film have now become iconic in their own right. Numerous stage adaptions have also been put on across the globe.
The Wizard Of Oz
This fantasy from 1939 continues to delight younger generations thanks to its colourful setting and intriguing characters. The Wicked Witch of the West has on occasion been named the greatest villain of all time. Judy Garland plays Dorothy, a farm girl who finds herself transported to a magical land called Oz.
Mamma Mia!
Originally a stage musical, Mamma Mia! is about a woman who strives to locate her biological father on the eve of her wedding. The soundtrack contains hits by the Swedish pop group Abba. The film version has a cast of A-listers such as Pierce Brosnan and Meryl Streep.
Little Shop Of Horrors
In this unusual comedy, a man finds a talking plant that has a thirst for hum
an blood. As the creature eats more people it grows to a large size and threatens to destroy the world. Inspired by science fiction B movies, Little Shop Of Horrors has impressive practical puppet effects and comedic performances.
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street
Johnny Depp plays the titular homicidal barber. Arriving in London after a long exile, Todd concocts a murderous scheme to get revenge on his former enemies. He befriends a pie maker played by Helena Bonham Carter. Together they attempt to lure out a corrupt judge, murdering numerous people along the way.
The Greatest Showman
Released in 2018, The Greatest Showman was well received by critics. This shows that musicals are alive and well. In the film, Hugh Jackman plays a fictionalised version of P.T. Barnum as he suffers several business failures while trying to create his iconic circus. The song This Is Me stands out as the best track in the film.