If you loved the soul-stirring jazz journey of Blue Giant (2023), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture the same electrifying energy, passion for music, and emotional depth. Whether you're a jazz enthusiast or simply crave inspiring stories, these picks will resonate with you.

Amadeus (1984)
Description: A dramatic portrayal of the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, focusing on his genius, rivalry, and the profound impact of his music.
Fact: The film used Mozart's actual compositions, and the actors learned to mimic playing the instruments to make the performances look authentic.


The Legend of 1900 (1998)
Description: A poetic tale about a pianist born and raised on a ship, whose extraordinary talent and unique life story highlight the deep connection between music and identity.
Fact: The piano duel scene features a piece that was composed to sound like it was played by four hands, though it was actually performed by a single pianist.


The Pianist (2002)
Description: A harrowing true story of a pianist surviving the Holocaust, where music becomes a source of solace and resilience amidst unimaginable hardship.
Fact: Adrien Brody learned to play Chopin's music on the piano for the role and lost 30 pounds to accurately portray the emaciated survivor.


Ray (2004)
Description: A biographical film about the life of legendary musician Ray Charles, showcasing his musical innovation and personal struggles.
Fact: Jamie Foxx, who played Ray Charles, is a classically trained pianist and performed all the piano scenes himself.


August Rush (2007)
Description: A heartwarming story of a musical prodigy who uses his extraordinary talent to find his parents, emphasizing the universal language of music.
Fact: The young actor who played August Rush had no prior musical training and learned to play the guitar and conduct for the role.


A Star Is Born (2018)
Description: A poignant drama about the rise of a young singer and the struggles of her mentor, highlighting the emotional highs and lows of a music career.
Fact: Lady Gaga performed all her songs live during filming, and the concert scenes were shot in front of real audiences at music festivals.


Whiplash (2014)
Description: A gripping drama about the intense relationship between a young jazz drummer and his demanding instructor, exploring themes of passion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of musical excellence.
Fact: The film was shot in just 19 days, and the drumming sequences were performed live by the actors without any digital enhancements.


Soul (2020)
Description: An animated film that delves into the life of a jazz musician, exploring themes of purpose, passion, and the transformative power of music.
Fact: The film's jazz score was composed by Jon Batiste, while the more abstract, otherworldly music was created by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross.


Sing Street (2016)
Description: A coming-of-age story set in 1980s Dublin, where a boy forms a band to impress a girl, showcasing the transformative and liberating power of music.
Fact: The actors formed a real band and performed all the songs themselves, with original music written for the film.


La La Land (2016)
Description: A modern musical that blends jazz and contemporary music, following the dreams and struggles of two artists in Los Angeles, with a strong emphasis on the emotional power of music.
Fact: Ryan Gosling learned to play the piano for his role, practicing for two hours a day, six days a week, for three months.
