Rock Docs to Watch If You Loved Slash’s Story

Description: A psychedelic dive into the life of a controversial rock frontman, capturing the hedonistic lifestyle and artistic rebellion of the 1960s counterculture.

Fact: Val Kilmer immersed himself so deeply in Jim Morrison's persona that he began reciting poetry spontaneously between takes. The band's surviving members criticized the film for its exaggerated portrayal of Morrison's darker side.

Description: A coming-of-age story set in the world of rock music, capturing the raw energy and behind-the-scenes chaos of touring bands, much like the gritty, unfiltered portrayal of 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.

Description: A gripping portrayal of a musical genius overcoming adversity, with a focus on the creative process and the personal demons that shaped his iconic sound.

Fact: Jamie Foxx learned to play piano blindfolded to accurately depict Ray Charles. The film was in development for over 15 years before production began.

Description: A biographical film that explores the personal and professional struggles of a music legend, highlighting the transformative power of love and redemption in the face of addiction.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon did their own singing for the film. Phoenix spent a year learning to play guitar and mimic Johnny Cash's deep voice.

Description: A raw and unflinching look at the short, chaotic life of a punk rock icon, emphasizing the DIY ethos and destructive tendencies of the underground music scene.

Fact: Shane West learned to sing and perform like Darby Crash, even adopting his distinctive stage presence. The film's title is taken from a Germs song lyric.

Description: A black-and-white biopic that captures the raw intensity and melancholy of a post-punk icon, focusing on his artistic brilliance and inner turmoil.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where Joy Division lived and performed. Anton Corbijn, the director, was a photographer who had worked with the band in real life.

Description: A gritty, rebellious story about the formation of an all-female rock band, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of young women in a male-dominated industry.

Fact: Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart performed their own vocals and instruments for the film. Joan Jett served as an executive producer and helped ensure the story's authenticity.

Description: A dramatization of the rise of Chess Records and its legendary artists, blending music history with personal drama and the racial tensions of the era.

Fact: Beyoncé learned to play guitar left-handed for her role as Etta James. The film's soundtrack features modern artists covering classic blues and rock 'n' roll songs.

Description: A biographical drama that delves into the rise of a legendary rock band, showcasing the highs and lows of fame, creative struggles, and the electrifying power of live performances.

Fact: Rami Malek spent months studying Freddie Mercury's mannerisms and even wore prosthetic teeth to mimic his overbite. The Live Aid concert sequence was recreated shot-for-shot using original stage designs.

Description: A musical fantasy that blends surreal visuals with the turbulent life of a rock icon, emphasizing the emotional and artistic journey behind the music.

Fact: Taron Egerton performed all the songs live on set rather than lip-syncing. The film uses Elton John's music to narrate his life, blending reality with fantastical sequences.