Musical films offer a unique blend of storytelling, music, and dance that can be both enchanting and polarizing. If you found yourself intrigued by the whimsical world of Cats, here are 20 other musical films that might pique your interest. Check out the trailer for Cats here!
1. Les Misérables
Based on the iconic stage musical, Les Misérables tells the story of Jean Valjean, a former prisoner who seeks redemption. Starring Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe, this film is a powerful tale of love, sacrifice, and revolution.
2. The Greatest Showman
The Greatest Showman is a vibrant musical inspired by the life of P.T. Barnum. Hugh Jackman leads the cast alongside Zac Efron and Zendaya, bringing to life the creation of Barnum’s circus and its rise to fame.
3. La La Land
La La Land is a modern musical that follows the romantic journey of an aspiring actress and a jazz musician in Los Angeles. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling deliver captivating performances that earned the film multiple awards.
4. Mamma Mia!
Featuring the timeless music of ABBA, Mamma Mia! is a joyous romp set on a picturesque Greek island. Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, and Pierce Brosnan star in this feel-good musical about love and family.
5. Chicago
Chicago is a dazzling adaptation of the Broadway hit, set in the roaring 1920s. Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones star as rival performers in this tale of ambition, crime, and jazz.
6. Moulin Rouge!
Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge! is a visually stunning musical set in the bohemian underworld of Paris. Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman star in this tragic love story filled with spectacular musical numbers.
7. Into the Woods
Into the Woods brings together various fairy tale characters in a quest to break a witch’s curse. Starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and James Corden, this film is a magical blend of fantasy and music.
8. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Directed by Tim Burton, Sweeney Todd is a dark musical about a vengeful barber in Victorian London. Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter deliver chilling performances in this tale of murder and revenge.
9. The Phantom of the Opera
The Phantom of the Opera is a lavish adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical. Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum star in this haunting story of love and obsession set in the Paris Opera House.
10. Hairspray
Hairspray is a fun and energetic musical set in the 1960s, focusing on a teenager’s dream to dance on a popular TV show. Nikki Blonsky, John Travolta, and Zac Efron lead a colorful cast in this feel-good film.
11. Rent
Based on the groundbreaking Broadway musical, Rent follows a group of friends struggling with life and love in New York City. The film stars Rosario Dawson, Taye Diggs, and Idina Menzel.
12. Dreamgirls
Dreamgirls is a glamorous musical inspired by the rise of Motown and The Supremes. Beyoncé, Jennifer Hudson, and Jamie Foxx star in this story of fame, ambition, and the music industry.
13. Evita
Evita tells the story of Eva Perón, the First Lady of Argentina, through a series of powerful musical numbers. Madonna stars in the titular role, alongside Antonio Banderas and Jonathan Pryce.
14. The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult classic that combines horror, comedy, and rock music. Tim Curry stars as the eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter in this outrageous and entertaining film.
15. West Side Story
West Side Story is a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in 1950s New York City. The film features memorable performances by Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer, with its iconic music and choreography.
16. Annie
Annie is a heartwarming musical about an optimistic orphan searching for her parents. The film stars Aileen Quinn, Albert Finney, and Carol Burnett, bringing to life the beloved story and songs.
17. Grease
Grease is a nostalgic musical set in the 1950s, following the summer romance between Danny and Sandy. John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John star in this beloved film filled with catchy tunes and dance numbers.
18. The Sound of Music
The Sound of Music is a timeless musical about a young governess who brings joy to a widowed naval captain’s family. Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer star in this classic film set against the backdrop of World War II.
19. Cabaret
Cabaret is a gritty musical set in 1930s Berlin, focusing on the lives of performers at the Kit Kat Klub. Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey deliver unforgettable performances in this story of love and political upheaval.
20. Mary Poppins
Mary Poppins is a magical musical about a whimsical nanny who brings joy to a troubled family. Julie Andrews stars in the titular role, alongside Dick Van Dyke, in this enchanting film filled with memorable songs and moments.
These musical films, like Cats, offer a blend of captivating stories, memorable music, and stunning visuals that will transport you to different worlds. Whether you’re a fan of classic musicals or modern adaptations, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy!
