10 Must-Watch Biopics About Guitarists

Description: This biopic focuses on Buddy Holly, whose innovative guitar work and songwriting changed the course of rock 'n' roll. It's a celebration of his brief but impactful career.

Fact: Gary Busey, who portrayed Holly, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance.

Description: While centered on Ritchie Valens, the film also highlights the influence of his guitar playing, which was instrumental in blending rock 'n' roll with Mexican folk music.

Fact: Lou Diamond Phillips, who played Valens, learned to play the guitar and sing for the role, performing all the songs himself.

Description: This film delves into the life of Jim Morrison but also showcases the guitar work of Robby Krieger, whose contributions were vital to the band's sound.

Fact: Val Kilmer, who played Morrison, sang all the songs in the film, and the real Robby Krieger played guitar on the soundtrack.

Description: Although primarily about Ray Charles, the film also touches on the guitarists who influenced and played with him, like his longtime guitarist, Ray Brown Jr.

Fact: Jamie Foxx, who portrayed Charles, won an Academy Award for Best Actor, and the film was praised for its accurate portrayal of Charles's music and life.

Description: While primarily about Johnny Cash, the film also showcases Luther Perkins, whose minimalist guitar style was integral to Cash's sound. It's a story of love, music, and redemption.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix, who played Cash, performed all his own singing, capturing the essence of Cash's voice and guitar playing.

Description: This unconventional biopic about Bob Dylan features several actors portraying different aspects of Dylan's life, including his guitar work, which was revolutionary in folk and rock music.

Fact: The film uses six different actors to represent various facets of Dylan's personality, with Cate Blanchett's portrayal earning her an Academy Award nomination.

Description: This film tells the story of the all-female rock band The Runaways, with a focus on Joan Jett, who became a guitar icon. It captures the band's rise and fall, showcasing Jett's determination and talent.

Fact: Kristen Stewart, who played Joan Jett, learned to play guitar for the role, and Joan Jett herself was involved in the film's production.

Description: While not a traditional biopic, this documentary features guitarists Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White, exploring their influences, techniques, and the evolution of their music. It's a must-watch for understanding the guitar's role in rock music.

Fact: The film was shot over three years, capturing the musicians in various settings, including a unique jam session at the end.

Description: Although centered on Sid Vicious, the film also highlights the punk rock scene and the influence of Johnny Thunders, whose guitar work was pivotal in shaping punk rock.

Fact: The film was shot in the same apartment where Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen lived, adding an eerie authenticity.

Description: This film chronicles the wild life of Mötley Crüe, focusing on the band's guitarist Mick Mars, whose unique guitar style helped define the band's sound. It's a rollercoaster ride through the excesses of rock 'n' roll.

Fact: The film was based on the band's own book, and the real-life members of Mötley Crüe served as executive producers.