Great Films About Music and Musicians

Description: This film offers a fictionalized account of the rivalry between Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri, focusing on Mozart's genius and the jealousy it provokes.

Fact: The film won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Tom Hulce, who played Mozart, learned to play the piano for the role, though he was not a professional musician.

Description: Oliver Stone's biopic on Jim Morrison and The Doors, focusing on Morrison's charismatic yet troubled life, his poetic lyrics, and the band's impact on rock music.

Fact: Val Kilmer did all his own singing, and the film features actual Doors members Ray Manzarek, John Densmore, and Robby Krieger.

Description: This film explores the life of Ray Charles, from his childhood in the segregated South to his groundbreaking music career. It highlights his musical innovation and personal challenges.

Fact: Jamie Foxx's performance as Ray Charles was so convincing that Charles himself was moved to tears watching the film. Foxx won an Oscar for Best Actor.

Description: A biographical drama about Johnny Cash, focusing on his early life, rise to fame, and his complex relationship with June Carter. The film captures the raw energy of Cash's music and the personal demons he faced.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon performed all their own singing. Witherspoon won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as June Carter.

Description: Bradley Cooper's directorial debut tells the story of a seasoned musician who discovers and falls in love with a struggling artist, leading to her rise to fame while he battles his own demons.

Fact: Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper performed all their songs live during filming, adding authenticity to their performances. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards.

Description: This biopic chronicles the rise of Queen through the lens of Freddie Mercury, capturing his flamboyant stage presence and personal struggles. It's a celebration of music, friendship, and the enduring legacy of one of rock's greatest bands.

Fact: Rami Malek won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury. The film's title track was re-recorded with Mercury's vocals and the band's original instrumental tracks.

Description: A gripping tale of a young drummer's pursuit of greatness under the tutelage of a ruthless instructor. It's a study in ambition, dedication, and the dark side of musical perfectionism.

Fact: The film was shot in 19 days. J.K. Simmons' intense performance as the instructor earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: While not strictly about musicians, this film celebrates the dreams and aspirations of a jazz pianist and an aspiring actress in Los Angeles, showcasing the city's vibrant music scene.

Fact: The film's opening dance number was shot in one take, requiring extensive choreography and rehearsal. It won six Academy Awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle.

Description: A humorous and heartfelt look at a group of working-class Irish youths who form a soul band, exploring themes of ambition, community, and the power of music to unite.

Fact: The film's soundtrack became a hit, with the band performing live at several venues during the promotional tour. It was based on Roddy Doyle's novel.

Description: Set in the 1960s folk scene of Greenwich Village, this film follows a struggling musician over a week, capturing the essence of the folk revival and the harsh realities of the music industry.

Fact: The Coen Brothers wrote the film with Oscar Isaac in mind for the lead role. The soundtrack features original songs by T Bone Burnett and Justin Timberlake.