10 Movies & Shows Like *The Commitments* (1991)

Description: 'The Blues Brothers' shares with 'The Commitments' a deep love for soul and blues music, featuring a band on a mission to save their local music venue. Both films celebrate the camaraderie and chaos of band life, with high-energy musical performances and a mix of humor and heart. The ensemble cast and the focus on musical authenticity are key similarities.

Fact: John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd learned to play their instruments for the film. The film features legendary musicians like Aretha Franklin and James Brown. The car chase scene is one of the most expensive ever filmed.

Description: Like 'The Commitments', 'That Thing You Do!' is a nostalgic look at the rise of a band, capturing the excitement and challenges of making it in the music industry. Both films feature catchy original songs and explore the dynamics of band relationships. The youthful energy and period setting add to their charm.

Fact: Tom Hanks made his directorial debut with this film. The title song became a real hit, reaching the Billboard Top

Description: Both 'Almost Famous' and 'The Commitments' explore the behind-the-scenes world of music, focusing on the passion and pitfalls of being in a band. While 'The Commitments' is about a group of working-class Irish musicians, 'Almost Famous' follows a young journalist touring with a rising rock band. The films share themes of music as a lifeline and the bittersweet nature of fame.

Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on director Cameron Crowe's experiences as a teenage journalist. Kate Hudson's performance as Penny Lane earned her an Oscar nomination. The fictional band Stillwater was inspired by real bands like Led Zeppelin and The Allman Brothers.

Description: 'School of Rock' and 'The Commitments' both center on underdog musicians who find redemption through music. While 'The Commitments' focuses on a soul band in Dublin, 'School of Rock' follows a substitute teacher forming a rock band with his students. Both films emphasize the joy and unity that music can bring, with memorable performances and a rebellious spirit.

Fact: Jack Black's character was inspired by real-life musician and teacher Paul Green. The child actors actually learned to play their instruments for the film. The film was later adapted into a successful Broadway musical.

Description: 'Ray' and 'The Commitments' both pay homage to soul music, with 'Ray' being a biographical film about Ray Charles. Both films showcase the power of music to overcome adversity, with strong performances and a deep connection to the music's roots. The emotional depth and musical brilliance are central to both stories.

Fact: Jamie Foxx won an Oscar for his portrayal of Ray Charles. Foxx learned to play piano blindfolded for the role. Ray Charles approved of Foxx's casting before his death.

Description: 'Walk the Line' and 'The Commitments' both explore the lives of musicians, with 'Walk the Line' focusing on Johnny Cash. Both films highlight the passion and perseverance required to succeed in music, with standout performances and a strong emotional core. The music is integral to the storytelling in both.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon performed all the songs themselves. Witherspoon won an Oscar for her role as June Carter Cash. The film was approved by Johnny Cash before his death.

Description: 'Dreamgirls' and 'The Commitments' both delve into the world of soul music, showcasing the highs and lows of a musical group. While 'Dreamgirls' is more polished and theatrical, both films highlight the struggles of artists trying to make it big, with powerful vocal performances and emotional storytelling.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the rise of The Supremes. Jennifer Hudson won an Oscar for her role as Effie White. Eddie Murphy received critical acclaim for his performance as James 'Thunder' Early.

Description: 'The Runaways' and 'The Commitments' both portray the raw, rebellious energy of young musicians breaking into the music scene. While 'The Runaways' focuses on the all-female rock band, both films explore themes of youth, ambition, and the transformative power of music. The gritty, realistic portrayal of band life is a key similarity.

Fact: Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning learned to play their instruments for their roles. The film is based on the memoir of Runaways guitarist Joan Jett. The real Joan Jett served as an executive producer.

Description: Both 'Cadillac Records' and 'The Commitments' celebrate the roots of soul and blues music, with a focus on the artists behind the songs. While 'Cadillac Records' is a biographical drama about Chess Records, both films highlight the cultural impact of music and the personal struggles of musicians. The authentic musical performances are a standout feature in both.

Fact: The film features Beyoncé as Etta James, performing her classic songs. Adrien Brody plays Leonard Chess, the founder of Chess Records. The soundtrack includes original recordings by the cast.

Description: Like 'The Commitments', 'Sing Street' is a coming-of-age musical drama set in Ireland, focusing on a group of young musicians forming a band to escape their mundane lives. Both films highlight the transformative power of music and the struggles of youth, with a strong emphasis on soul and rock genres. The raw energy and passion of the young performers mirror the spirit of 'The Commitments'.

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.