10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Once (2007)

Description: 'The Commitments' and 'Once' both celebrate the unifying power of music, particularly within a working-class context. Both films feature ensemble casts and focus on the formation of a band, with music serving as a means of personal and collective expression. The gritty, realistic tone of 'Once' is mirrored in 'The Commitments'.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by Roddy Doyle. Many of the actors were not professional musicians before filming. It won the BAFTA Award for Best Film.

Description: Like 'Once', 'Almost Famous' captures the emotional highs and lows of a life dedicated to music. Both films explore the personal connections formed through shared musical experiences, with a strong emphasis on authenticity and emotional truth. The coming-of-age aspect in 'Almost Famous' resonates with the personal growth seen in 'Once'.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage journalist. Kate Hudson's performance earned her an Academy Award nomination. The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Description: Like 'Once', 'Walk the Line' is a music-driven drama that explores the personal and professional lives of musicians. Both films highlight the emotional and creative struggles of their protagonists, with music serving as both a solace and a challenge. The authentic performances and emotional depth in 'Once' are echoed in 'Walk the Line'.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon performed all the songs themselves. Witherspoon won an Academy Award for her role as June Carter Cash. The film was directed by James Mangold.

Description: 'August Rush' and 'Once' both center around the idea of music as a transcendent force that connects people. Both films feature protagonists who are deeply passionate about music and use it to navigate their personal struggles. The emotional and almost magical portrayal of music in 'August Rush' aligns with the heartfelt tone of 'Once'.

Fact: Freddie Highmore learned to play the guitar and conduct for his role. The film's score was composed by Mark Mancina. It was directed by Kirsten Sheridan, daughter of Jim Sheridan.

Description: 'Crazy Heart' shares with 'Once' a focus on the life of a struggling musician and the redemptive power of music. Both films feature raw, emotional performances and a soundtrack that plays a central role in the narrative. The intimate, character-driven approach in 'Once' is mirrored in 'Crazy Heart's' portrayal of personal and professional redemption.

Fact: Jeff Bridges won an Academy Award for his performance. The film's soundtrack was produced by T-Bone Burnett. It was based on a 1987 novel of the same name.

Description: Similar to 'Once', 'A Star Is Born' delves into the emotional and professional dynamics between musicians. Both films highlight the raw, unfiltered process of creating music and the personal sacrifices that come with artistic pursuit. The chemistry between the leads in both films feels authentic and deeply moving.

Fact: Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper performed all the songs live during filming. This is the fourth remake of the original 1937 film. The film's soundtrack won an Academy Award for Best Original Song ('Shallow').

Description: Similar to 'Once', 'Bohemian Rhapsody' explores the transformative power of music and the personal sacrifices behind artistic success. Both films feature compelling performances and a soundtrack that drives the narrative. The emotional resonance and celebration of music in 'Once' are paralleled in 'Bohemian Rhapsody's' tribute to Queen's legacy.

Fact: Rami Malek won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury. The film's live concert sequences were recreated using a mix of original audio and new recordings. It became the highest-grossing musical biographical film of all time.

Description: 'Rocketman' and 'Once' both use music to tell deeply personal stories of artistic struggle and self-discovery. Both films blend musical performances with narrative to create an immersive emotional experience. The raw, honest portrayal of the protagonist's journey in 'Once' is mirrored in 'Rocketman's' fantastical yet truthful depiction of Elton John's life.

Fact: Taron Egerton performed all the songs himself. The film is a musical fantasy, blending reality with imaginative sequences. It won the Academy Award for Best Original Song ('I'm Gonna Love Me Again').

Description: Like 'Once', 'Sing Street' is a heartfelt musical drama about the transformative power of music. Both films feature protagonists who form bands and use music as an escape from their mundane lives. The raw, indie feel of the music and the emotional depth of the characters are reminiscent of 'Once'.

Fact: The film was inspired by director John Carney's own experiences growing up in Dublin. The lead actor, Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, had no prior acting experience before being cast. The soundtrack features original songs written specifically for the film.

Description: 'La La Land' shares with 'Once' a focus on the struggles and dreams of musicians. Both films blend music and romance, showcasing how artistic passion can both unite and divide people. The intimate, character-driven storytelling in 'Once' is echoed in 'La La Land's' exploration of love and ambition.

Fact: Ryan Gosling learned to play the piano for his role. The film was shot in CinemaScope to pay homage to classic Hollywood musicals. It won six Academy Awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle.