If you were captivated by the raw intensity and chaotic energy of 'Her Smell' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its themes of self-destruction, redemption, and the dark side of fame. Whether you loved the unflinching portrayal of a troubled artist or the gritty realism, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

The Doors (1991)
Description: A biopic that immerses viewers in the psychedelic and self-destructive world of a rock band, focusing on the charismatic yet troubled frontman and his descent into excess.
Fact: Val Kilmer learned to sing like Jim Morrison and performed all the songs himself. The film's production was plagued by controversies, including protests from Morrison's family.


Velvet Goldmine (1998)
Description: A stylized, non-linear narrative that examines the glam rock era, filled with decadence, identity exploration, and the darker side of fame and artistic expression.
Fact: The film was heavily inspired by the lives of David Bowie and Iggy Pop. It features an original soundtrack with contributions from Thom Yorke and Radiohead.


Almost Famous (2000)
Description: Explores the chaotic and hedonistic world of rock music, focusing on the rise and struggles of a fictional band, capturing the raw energy and emotional turbulence of the music industry.
Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage journalist for Rolling Stone. Kate Hudson's performance as Penny Lane earned her a Golden Globe.


24 Hour Party People (2002)
Description: Chronicles the rise and fall of a music scene, blending humor and tragedy while showcasing the chaotic, drug-fueled lifestyle of artists and the fleeting nature of success.
Fact: The film features real-life figures from the Manchester music scene, including Tony Wilson and bands like Joy Division and Happy Mondays. It uses a mix of archival footage and reenactments.


Control (2007)
Description: A black-and-white biopic that portrays the tumultuous life of a musician, capturing the emotional highs and lows, creative struggles, and personal battles with addiction.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where Joy Division's Ian Curtis lived and performed. It won the Caméra d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.


The Runaways (2010)
Description: Delves into the gritty, rebellious spirit of a pioneering all-female rock band, highlighting the intense pressures and personal demons faced by its members in a male-dominated industry.
Fact: Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart learned to play their instruments for their roles. The film is based on the memoir of Runaways lead singer Cherie Currie.


A Star Is Born (2018)
Description: A poignant tale of love and fame, contrasting the rise of a new artist with the decline of an established one, set against the backdrop of the music industry's relentless demands.
Fact: Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper performed live at Coachella to promote the film. The soundtrack won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.


Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Description: A biographical drama that follows the meteoric rise and personal struggles of a legendary band, emphasizing the tension between artistic brilliance and self-destructive tendencies.
Fact: Rami Malek's portrayal of Freddie Mercury earned him an Academy Award. The film's Live Aid recreation was shot in one continuous take.


Rocketman (2019)
Description: A musical fantasy that blends reality with surreal elements to depict the life of a flamboyant musician, exploring his battles with addiction, identity, and the pressures of fame.
Fact: Taron Egerton performed all the songs himself. The film won an Academy Award for Best Original Song.


Whiplash (2014)
Description: A high-intensity drama about the toxic relationship between a young musician and his abusive mentor, highlighting the extreme sacrifices and psychological toll of pursuing artistic perfection.
Fact: The film was shot in just 19 days. J.K. Simmons' performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
