If you loved the nostalgic charm and heartfelt storytelling of Hunky Dory (2011), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same blend of music, coming-of-age drama, and retro vibes. Whether you're drawn to the film's emotional depth or its groovy soundtrack, these picks will keep you entertained.

A Hard Day's Night (1964)
Description: A playful, energetic portrayal of band life, blending satire with genuine affection for music and the chaos of sudden stardom.
Fact: The first Beatles film, shot in black and white to save money. Many lines were improvised, capturing the band's natural chemistry.


The Commitments (1991)
Description: A gritty yet heartwarming tale of a working-class Dublin band chasing dreams through soul music, filled with raw energy and camaraderie.
Fact: The film's soundtrack went multi-platinum, outselling the movie itself. Many cast members were non-actors with real musical talent.


That Thing You Do! (1996)
Description: Follows the rise and fall of a fictional 1960s band, blending humor, nostalgia, and the bittersweet realities of fleeting fame.
Fact: Tom Hanks made his directorial debut with this film. The title song was so catchy it became a real hit, reaching No. 41 on the Billboard Hot


Velvet Goldmine (1998)
Description: A glam-rock odyssey mixing fantasy and reality, delving into identity, androgyny, and the transformative power of music.
Fact: The film was heavily inspired by David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust era. Ewan McGregor learned to play guitar left-handed for his role.


Almost Famous (2000)
Description: A coming-of-age story set in the world of rock music, capturing the excitement and disillusionment of youth and the music industry.
Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone. Kate Hudson's performance as Penny Lane earned her a Golden Globe.


School of Rock (2003)
Description: A humorous and uplifting tale of music transforming lives, focusing on the joy of performance and the bonds formed through shared passion.
Fact: The child actors actually learned to play their instruments for the film. The stage musical adaptation opened on Broadway in


Across the Universe (2007)
Description: A visually stunning musical weaving Beatles songs into a narrative about love, protest, and the 1960s counterculture.
Fact: Features over 30 Beatles songs reinterpreted by the cast. The film's dream sequences were partly inspired by LSD trips.


The Runaways (2010)
Description: A raw, rebellious look at the formation of an all-girl rock band, exploring youth, gender barriers, and the price of fame.
Fact: Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart performed their own vocals. The real Joan Jett served as an executive producer.


The Boat That Rocked (2009)
Description: A lively ensemble comedy about pirate radio DJs, celebrating music's power to unite and defy authority.
Fact: Known as 'Pirate Radio' in the US. The boat set was so authentic it sank during filming, delaying production.


Sing Street (2016)
Description: A vibrant story of teenage rebellion and creativity, where forming a band becomes an escape from tough realities and a path to self-discovery.
Fact: The songs were written by director John Carney and Gary Clark, blending 1980s influences with original compositions. The lead actor had no prior musical experience.
