10 Movies & Shows Like Mean Man (2021)

Description: This biopic delves into the life of a charismatic and troubled rock star, exploring his artistic genius, substance abuse, and the dark side of fame.

Fact: Val Kilmer immersed himself in the role of Jim Morrison, even performing live with the surviving members of The Doors. The film's soundtrack features original recordings by the band.

Description: A coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the 1970s rock scene, it portrays the highs and lows of touring with a band, offering a nostalgic yet critical look at the music industry.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone. It won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: This film captures the chaotic and vibrant music scene of Manchester, focusing on the rise and fall of a record label and its eccentric founder, blending humor with the gritty reality of the industry.

Fact: The film features real-life musicians playing themselves or other characters. It uses a mockumentary style, breaking the fourth wall frequently.

Description: A raw and unfiltered look at the short, explosive career of a punk rock band, highlighting the rebellious spirit and self-destructive tendencies of its lead singer.

Fact: Shane West, who plays the lead singer, also contributed to the film's soundtrack. The band's surviving members were involved in the production.

Description: A black-and-white biopic that chronicles the life of a post-punk musician, focusing on his artistic vision, personal struggles, and tragic end, offering a poignant look at the cost of fame.

Fact: The film is based on the memoir by Deborah Curtis, the wife of Joy Division's Ian Curtis. It was shot in the actual locations where the events took place.

Description: This documentary explores the thrash metal scene of the 1980s, focusing on the passion, energy, and sometimes destructive lifestyles of the musicians who defined the genre.

Fact: The film features interviews with members of Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax. It includes rare footage of early performances and behind-the-scenes moments.

Description: This film captures the raw energy and rebellion of a young all-female rock band, highlighting the chaotic and often destructive lifestyle that comes with sudden fame and youth.

Fact: Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart learned to play their instruments for their roles. The film is based on the memoir of Runaways lead singer Cherie Currie.

Description: A documentary that follows a once-promising heavy metal band as they struggle to keep their dreams alive, offering a heartfelt and humorous look at perseverance in the face of obscurity.

Fact: The film was initially intended to be a mockumentary but turned into a genuine documentary when the filmmakers realized the band's story was compelling enough. It gained a cult following after its release.

Description: This film explores the rise of a legendary rock band, focusing on the personal struggles and triumphs of its frontman, much like the narrative of a musician's turbulent journey through fame and personal demons.

Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Rami Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury. The Live Aid recreation was shot in one continuous take.

Description: A musical biopic that delves into the life of a flamboyant rock star, showcasing his battles with addiction, identity, and the pressures of fame, mirroring the emotional and psychological struggles of a musician.

Fact: The film uses Elton John's songs to narrate his life story, blending fantasy and reality. Taron Egerton performed all the songs himself.