10 Movies & Shows Like The Blues Brothers (1980)

Description: Like 'The Blues Brothers', 'Animal House' is a comedy with a strong musical element, featuring a rebellious spirit and a focus on camaraderie. Both films were directed by John Landis, sharing his signature blend of humor and chaos. The films also share a similar irreverent tone and a celebration of counterculture.

Fact: 'Animal House' was made on a modest budget of $3 million but grossed over $141 million, becoming one of the most profitable comedies of all time. John Belushi, who stars in 'The Blues Brothers', also plays the iconic role of Bluto in 'Animal House'. The film was inspired by co-writer Chris Miller's experiences in college fraternities.

Description: This musical comedy shares 'The Blues Brothers'' love for music and offbeat humor. Both films feature a strong musical score and a mix of comedy with darker, more surreal elements. The theatrical, larger-than-life performances in 'Little Shop of Horrors' echo the energetic and over-the-top style of 'The Blues Brothers'.

Fact: The film is based on a 1982 off-Broadway musical, which itself was based on a 1960 low-budget film. The plant, Audrey II, was operated by a team of puppeteers, including a young Bill Murray. The original ending was much darker but was changed after test audiences reacted negatively.

Description: Both 'The Commitments' and 'The Blues Brothers' center around a band's journey, celebrating soul and blues music. The films share themes of redemption and the transformative power of music. The gritty, urban settings and the focus on underdog characters create a similar emotional tone.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by Roddy Doyle, who also wrote the screenplay. Most of the actors were not professional musicians but learned to play their instruments for the film. The soundtrack was a commercial success, reaching number one in several countries.

Description: This film shares 'The Blues Brothers'' deep love for music and its exploration of the music industry. Both films feature road trips and a sense of adventure, with music as the central driving force. The nostalgic and heartfelt tone of 'Almost Famous' mirrors the emotional core of 'The Blues Brothers'.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage rock journalist. Kate Hudson's performance as Penny Lane earned her an Academy Award nomination. The soundtrack features classic rock songs from the 1970s.

Description: Both films celebrate the power of music and feature a ragtag group of musicians coming together. 'School of Rock' shares 'The Blues Brothers'' humor and heart, with a focus on the transformative and rebellious nature of rock and roll. The films also share a similar energetic and uplifting tone.

Fact: Jack Black's character, Dewey Finn, was inspired by real-life rock musicians. The child actors in the film actually learned to play their instruments for their roles. The film was a critical and commercial success, leading to a Broadway musical adaptation.

Description: This biopic of Ray Charles shares 'The Blues Brothers'' reverence for blues and soul music. Both films explore the power of music to overcome adversity and the personal struggles of musicians. The emotional depth and musical performances create a similar resonance.

Fact: Jamie Foxx won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ray Charles. Foxx learned to play the piano blindfolded to prepare for the role. Ray Charles approved of Foxx's casting before his death in

Description: Like 'The Blues Brothers', 'Hairspray' is a musical with a strong social message, blending comedy with themes of racial integration and acceptance. Both films feature vibrant musical numbers and a sense of joy and rebellion. The energetic performances and period settings create a similar visual and emotional appeal.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1988 John Waters movie, which was adapted into a Broadway musical in 200John Travolta plays Edna Turnblad, a role originally played by drag queen Divine in the 1988 version. The film won the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

Description: This parody of musical biopics shares 'The Blues Brothers'' comedic approach to music and its celebration of musical genres. Both films feature over-the-top performances and a satirical take on the music industry. The irreverent humor and musical numbers create a similar vibe.

Fact: The film was written by Judd Apatow and Jake Kasdan. John C. Reilly performed all his own singing in the film. The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following.

Description: Like 'The Blues Brothers', this film celebrates the history of blues and rock and roll. Both films feature iconic musicians and explore the cultural impact of their music. The gritty, authentic portrayal of the music scene in 'Cadillac Records' mirrors the raw energy of 'The Blues Brothers'.

Fact: The film focuses on the rise of Chess Records and artists like Muddy Waters and Etta James. Beyoncé plays Etta James and performed her own singing in the film. The soundtrack features covers of classic blues and rock songs.

Description: This jukebox musical shares 'The Blues Brothers'' love for classic rock and its celebration of music as a unifying force. Both films feature high-energy musical numbers and a nostalgic reverence for their respective musical eras. The ensemble cast and comedic elements also draw parallels.

Fact: The film is based on a 2006 Broadway musical of the same name. Tom Cruise performed all his own singing and guitar playing in the film. The soundtrack features covers of classic rock songs from the 1980s.