If you loved the heartfelt and quirky charm of Bigger Than the Sky (2005), this list is for you! Dive into 10 movies and shows that capture the same spirit of self-discovery, community, and theatrical passion. Whether you're a fan of underdog stories or ensemble casts, these picks will keep you entertained and inspired.

The Commitments (1991)
Description: A gritty yet uplifting story about a group of working-class Dubliners forming a soul band, highlighting the transformative power of music.
Fact: The cast members, many of whom were non-actors, learned to play their instruments and perform for the film.


Empire Records (1995)
Description: A cult classic about a group of record store employees navigating life and love, celebrating the communal spirit of music and youth.
Fact: The film was initially a box office flop but gained a dedicated following through home video and midnight screenings.


That Thing You Do! (1996)
Description: A lighthearted tale of a one-hit-wonder band, celebrating the fleeting nature of fame and the joy of making music.
Fact: The title song was written by the film's director and became a real-life hit, reaching the Billboard Top


Waiting for Guffman (1996)
Description: A mockumentary-style comedy that explores the eccentricities of small-town theater productions, focusing on the passion and absurdity of amateur performers.
Fact: The film was shot in just 19 days on a budget of $4 million, and much of the dialogue was improvised by the cast.


High Fidelity (2000)
Description: A witty exploration of love, music, and personal growth, with a protagonist who uses pop culture as a lens to understand his life.
Fact: The film's soundtrack features over 70 songs, carefully curated to reflect the protagonist's obsessive music taste.


Almost Famous (2000)
Description: A coming-of-age story set in the world of rock music, capturing the idealism and chaos of pursuing artistic dreams.
Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on the director's experiences as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone.


Best in Show (2000)
Description: A mockumentary that delves into the quirky world of competitive dog shows, capturing the same blend of humor and human eccentricity.
Fact: Many of the dog owners in the film were inspired by real-life characters the filmmakers observed at actual dog shows.


A Mighty Wind (2003)
Description: A satirical look at the folk music scene, blending humor with heartfelt performances, much like the way it balances comedy and genuine emotional moments.
Fact: The actors performed all the music live, and many of the songs were written specifically for the film.


School of Rock (2003)
Description: A comedy about an unlikely teacher inspiring kids through music, blending humor with a celebration of artistic expression and self-discovery.
Fact: The child actors learned to play their instruments for the film, and some continued performing music afterward.


Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
Description: A heartwarming yet darkly comedic road trip film about a dysfunctional family supporting their daughter's dream, mirroring themes of ambition and familial bonds.
Fact: The film's iconic yellow VW bus broke down repeatedly during filming, adding to the authenticity of the family's struggles.
