10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to TÁR (2022)

Description: The Red Shoes shares with TÁR a profound exploration of the sacrifices demanded by artistic dedication. Both films use ballet/classical music as metaphors for the consuming nature of art, with protagonists torn between personal happiness and professional fulfillment. The films are visually stunning, with The Red Shoes' famous ballet sequence paralleling TÁR's immersive concert scenes in their ability to transport viewers.

Fact: The ballet sequence took 6 weeks to film. Martin Scorsese has cited it as a major influence. The film was nearly lost before being restored in

Description: Like TÁR, The Competition delves into the intense psychological pressures of classical music performance, focusing on piano competitors. Both films examine how ambition and personal relationships intersect in high-stakes artistic environments. The films share a similar attention to the physicality of musical performance.

Fact: Amy Irving actually learned to play piano for the film. The competition scenes were filmed during a real piano competition. Richard Dreyfuss turned down the lead role.

Description: Amadeus, like TÁR, explores themes of genius, jealousy, and the destructive nature of artistic obsession. Both films feature complex relationships between musical prodigies and those who envy their talent. The period settings of both films are meticulously crafted to immerse viewers in the world of classical music, with attention to historical detail in both costumes and performances.

Fact: The film was shot in Prague to maintain historical authenticity. F. Murray Abraham didn't know how to play piano and had to learn for the role. The film won 8 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: The Hours shares with TÁR a meditative exploration of creative women under pressure, with interconnected narratives that span different time periods. Both films use classical music (in The Hours, it's Michael Nyman's score) to underscore emotional states. The films similarly examine how societal expectations constrain artistic women.

Fact: Nicole Kidman wore a prosthetic nose for her role as Virginia Woolf. The film's three stories were shot in three different aspect ratios. Meryl Streep's character was originally male in the novel.

Description: Like TÁR, The Soloist examines the relationship between music and mental health, though from a more compassionate perspective. Both films feature virtuoso musicians whose personal struggles are intertwined with their artistic gifts. The films share a thoughtful approach to portraying the transformative power of music.

Fact: Based on a true story reported by Steve Lopez. Jamie Foxx learned to play cello for the role. The real Nathaniel Ayers attended the premiere.

Description: Like TÁR, Black Swan explores the psychological toll of artistic perfectionism and the blurred lines between reality and obsession. Both films delve into the intense pressures of high-stakes performance environments, with protagonists who are consumed by their craft. The visual aesthetics in both films are striking, using tight framing and atmospheric lighting to heighten tension.

Fact: Natalie Portman trained in ballet for a year to prepare for her role. The film was shot in just 42 days. Director Darren Aronofsky originally conceived the idea as a companion piece to his film The Wrestler.

Description: Similar to TÁR, A Star Is Born examines the dynamics of power and mentorship in the music industry, though in a more popular music context. Both films feature strong female protagonists navigating male-dominated fields, with themes of artistic integrity versus commercial success. The films also share a focus on the physicality of performance, with intimate concert scenes that highlight the connection between artist and audience.

Fact: Lady Gaga insisted on performing live during filming. Bradley Cooper spent 18 months learning to sing for the role. The bar scenes were shot at the real Stagecoach music festival.

Description: This film about Paganini shares with TÁR a focus on a controversial musical genius whose personal life becomes entangled with their art. Both explore the cult of celebrity in classical music and the moral compromises artists make. The films also share a dark, atmospheric visual style that complements their dramatic narratives.

Fact: David Garrett performed all the violin pieces himself. The real Paganini was rumored to have made a pact with the devil. The film uses actual locations where Paganini performed.

Description: Whiplash shares TÁR's examination of the toxic relationship between mentor and protégé in the pursuit of artistic excellence. Both films feature protagonists who endure psychological abuse in their quest for greatness, raising questions about the cost of perfection. The films also share a similar intensity in their musical performances, with tight editing that mirrors the precision demanded of the characters.

Fact: The famous "Not quite my tempo" scene was filmed in one continuous take. J.K. Simmons based his character on his own high school music teacher. The film was shot in just 19 days.

Description: This series shares with TÁR an insider's look at the eccentricities and politics of the classical music world. Both explore the tension between tradition and innovation in orchestral settings, with charismatic but flawed conductors at their center. The shows similarly blend humor with dramatic moments, humanizing their musical geniuses.

Fact: Based on oboist Blair Tindall's memoir. Real musicians were cast in many roles. Gael García Bernal learned to conduct for his role.