10 Must-Watch Drama Films About Theatre

Description: While not strictly about theatre, this film captures the passion and sacrifice of a ballerina torn between her career and love, themes resonant with the dedication required in theatre.

Fact: The ballet sequence in the film took over two months to shoot and involved 120 dancers.

Description: This classic film explores the cutthroat world of Broadway through the story of an aspiring actress who manipulates her way into the life of a famous theatre star. It's a tale of ambition, betrayal, and the price of fame.

Fact: The film was nominated for 14 Academy Awards, tying with "Titanic" and "La La Land" for the most nominations ever. Bette Davis's performance as Margo Channing is considered one of her finest.

Description: Two producers scheme to produce a Broadway flop to make money through tax fraud, but their plan goes awry when their show becomes a hit. It's a satirical look at the theatre industry.

Fact: Mel Brooks won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for this film, his directorial debut.

Description: A romantic comedy-drama that imagines the life of William Shakespeare as he falls in love with a noblewoman while writing "Romeo and Juliet," offering a playful look at the Elizabethan theatre scene.

Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, despite being initially conceived as a low-budget film.

Description: Based on Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical, this film tells the story of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the Paris Opera House, falling in love with a young soprano. It's a blend of romance, horror, and theatrical spectacle.

Fact: This was the first film ever to be shot entirely at Pinewood Studios. The chandelier crash scene took six months to plan and execute.

Description: This film delves into the final years of Leo Tolstoy, focusing on the conflict between his wife and his followers over his legacy, with scenes set in the theatre of life and art.

Fact: Helen Mirren won the Best Actress award at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival for her portrayal of Sofia Tolstaya.

Description: A washed-up actor, famous for playing a superhero, attempts to reclaim his artistic integrity by staging a Broadway play. The film blurs the lines between reality and fiction, exploring themes of identity and ego.

Fact: The film appears to be shot in one continuous take, although it's actually several long takes cleverly edited together. Michael Keaton was nominated for an Oscar for his role.

Description: This film focuses on the relationship between an aging Shakespearean actor and his devoted dresser during World War II, highlighting the backstage life and the personal sacrifices made for the love of theatre.

Fact: The film was adapted from Ronald Harwood's play of the same name, which was inspired by his own experiences as a dresser to Sir Donald Wolfit.

Description: Set in the 17th century, this film examines the life of Edward Kynaston, the last male actor allowed to play female roles on the English stage, and his struggle with the arrival of women in theatre.

Fact: The film was inspired by Jeffrey Hatcher's play "Compleat Female Stage Beauty." Billy Crudup's performance as Kynaston was critically acclaimed.

Description: This Chinese film, while not about Western theatre, explores the life of a street performer and his quest for an heir to pass on his art, reflecting themes of legacy and performance.

Fact: The film was China's official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 69th Academy Awards.