If you’re a fan of biographical musical dramas like Selena, you’re in for a treat! This genre captures the essence of musical legends and their journeys. Below, we’ve curated a list of 16 movies that offer a similar blend of music, drama, and inspiring life stories.
1. Bohemian Rhapsody
Bohemian Rhapsody chronicles the rise of the iconic British rock band Queen and its lead singer, Freddie Mercury. Starring Rami Malek, the film delves into the band’s meteoric success and Mercury’s personal struggles.
2. Walk the Line
Walk the Line tells the story of country music legend Johnny Cash, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix. The film explores Cash’s early life, his romance with June Carter (Reese Witherspoon), and his rise to fame.
3. Ray
Ray is a biographical film about the life of rhythm and blues musician Ray Charles, played by Jamie Foxx. The movie highlights Charles’ battles with addiction and his journey to becoming a music legend.
4. A Star is Born
A Star is Born features Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga in a modern retelling of a classic story. The film follows the relationship between a seasoned musician and a young singer on the rise.
5. La Bamba
La Bamba is the biographical story of Ritchie Valens, a rock and roll star who tragically died young. Lou Diamond Phillips stars as Valens, capturing his journey from obscurity to stardom.
6. The Doors
The Doors is a film about the legendary rock band and its enigmatic lead singer, Jim Morrison. Val Kilmer stars as Morrison, bringing to life his tumultuous career and personal demons.
7. Rocketman
Rocketman is a musical fantasy about the breakthrough years of Elton John, starring Taron Egerton. The film combines music, drama, and surreal elements to tell John’s story of fame and fortune.
8. Straight Outta Compton
Straight Outta Compton follows the rise of the rap group N.W.A. and its impact on hip-hop culture. The film stars O’Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, and Jason Mitchell as they portray the group’s journey.
9. The Runaways
The Runaways is a biographical film about the 1970s all-girl rock band of the same name. Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning star as Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, respectively, showcasing their rise to fame.
10. Amadeus
Amadeus is a period drama that explores the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart through the eyes of his rival, Antonio Salieri. Tom Hulce stars as Mozart, with F. Murray Abraham as Salieri in this critically acclaimed film.
11. Coal Miner’s Daughter
Coal Miner’s Daughter tells the story of country music star Loretta Lynn, played by Sissy Spacek. The film chronicles Lynn’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a music icon.
12. Judy
Judy focuses on the later years of Judy Garland’s career, with Renée Zellweger delivering an Oscar-winning performance. The film highlights Garland’s struggles and her enduring legacy.
13. What’s Love Got to Do with It
What’s Love Got to Do with It is a biographical film about the life of Tina Turner, portrayed by Angela Bassett. The movie delves into Turner’s tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner and her rise to solo stardom.
14. 8 Mile
8 Mile stars Eminem as a young rapper trying to make it in Detroit’s hip-hop scene. The film, loosely based on Eminem’s own life, explores themes of struggle, ambition, and self-discovery.
15. Get on Up
Get on Up is a biographical film about the life of James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul,” played by Chadwick Boseman. The movie covers Brown’s rise from poverty to becoming a music legend.
16. The Buddy Holly Story
The Buddy Holly Story stars Gary Busey as the pioneering rock and roll musician Buddy Holly. The film chronicles Holly’s brief but influential career before his untimely death.
These films offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of musical legends, much like Selena. Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, or rap, there’s something here for everyone.