10 Movies & Shows Similar to Bad Reputation (2018)

Description: This coming-of-age story about a young journalist touring with a rock band parallels 'Bad Reputation's exploration of music industry dynamics. Both films capture the raw energy of rock 'n' roll and the personal transformations it inspires. They also examine the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success.

Fact: Cameron Crowe based the film on his own experiences as a teenage reporter. Kate Hudson's performance as Penny Lane earned her an Oscar nomination. The fictional band Stillwater was inspired by real 1970s rock acts.

Description: Like 'Bad Reputation', 'Walk the Line' portrays a musician's rise to fame amidst personal struggles. Both Johnny Cash and Joan Jett rebelled against musical conventions and faced personal demons. The films showcase how their music became an outlet for their authentic selves.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon did their own singing. Phoenix lived as Cash for a year before filming. The film won Witherspoon the Best Actress Oscar.

Description: This biopic about Joan Jett's first band directly connects to 'Bad Reputation'. Both portray Jett's determination to succeed in a male-dominated industry. They showcase her pioneering role in women's rock music and her signature rebellious style.

Fact: Kristen Stewart learned to play guitar left-handed for the role. Dakota Fanning's singing voice surprised the filmmakers. The real Joan Jett served as executive producer.

Description: Like 'Bad Reputation', 'The Social Network' explores the complexities of fame and the personal costs of success. Both films delve into the lives of individuals who challenge societal norms and face public scrutiny. While 'Bad Reputation' focuses on Joan Jett's rebellious spirit, 'The Social Network' examines Mark Zuckerberg's controversial rise to fame.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Aaron Sorkin, known for his fast-paced dialogue. Jesse Eisenberg prepared for his role by studying coding to understand Zuckerberg's mindset. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This N.W.A biopic shares with 'Bad Reputation' a focus on musical rebellion and cultural impact. Both films depict artists who challenged societal norms through their music and faced backlash. They highlight how controversial art can spark important conversations.

Fact: Ice Cube's son O'Shea Jackson Jr. played his father. The film's release coincided with the Black Lives Matter movement. It was produced by the original N.W.A members.

Description: Both 'Bohemian Rhapsody' and 'Bad Reputation' celebrate the lives of iconic musicians who defied expectations. While Joan Jett challenged gender norms in rock, Freddie Mercury broke barriers with his flamboyant style and vocal prowess. Each film highlights the struggles and triumphs of artists who remained true to themselves despite criticism.

Fact: Rami Malek wore prosthetic teeth to accurately portray Mercury's overbite. The Live Aid concert sequence was meticulously recreated using original stage designs. The film won four Oscars, including Best Actor for Malek.

Description: 'Rocketman' shares with 'Bad Reputation' a focus on a musician's journey through personal and professional challenges. Both Elton John and Joan Jett faced industry resistance but ultimately achieved legendary status. The films use music to drive their narratives, blending biographical elements with spectacular performances.

Fact: Taron Egerton performed all the songs himself. The film uses fantasy sequences to represent John's emotional state. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song ('I'm Gonna Love Me Again').

Description: Both films tell extraordinary stories of musicians who developed cult followings. While Joan Jett fought for recognition, Rodriguez mysteriously disappeared after initial obscurity. Each celebrates music's enduring power to connect with audiences across generations.

Fact: The film solved the mystery of Rodriguez's fate. It won the Best Documentary Oscar. Rodriguez's career revived after its release.

Description: Like 'Bad Reputation', this documentary examines the price of fame for a talented musician. Both films explore how media scrutiny and industry pressures affect artists. While Joan Jett fought against sexism, Amy Winehouse struggled with addiction and mental health issues.

Fact: The film uses never-before-seen footage. It won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature. Winehouse's father criticized its portrayal of him.

Description: This Nina Simone documentary parallels 'Bad Reputation' in exploring an artist's activism alongside her career. Both women faced industry discrimination but used their platforms for social change. The films reveal how personal struggles fueled their powerful performances.

Fact: It features rare concert footage. The title comes from a Maya Angelou essay. It was nominated for the Best Documentary Oscar.