If you loved 'Waitress: The Musical (2023)' and its heartfelt storytelling, charming characters, and toe-tapping musical numbers, you're in for a treat! This article highlights 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same magic—whether it's the small-town charm, emotional depth, or musical brilliance. Dive in to discover your next favorite watch!

The Sound of Music (1965)
Description: A beloved musical that combines romance, family, and music, set against a picturesque backdrop with timeless songs.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Salzburg, Austria. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Rent (2005)
Description: A rock musical that addresses themes of love, friendship, and survival amidst hardship, with a raw and emotional storytelling style.
Fact: Most of the original Broadway cast reprised their roles for the film. The story is based on Puccini's opera 'La Bohème.'


Chicago (2002)
Description: A dazzling musical that combines crime, romance, and showbiz, with a satirical edge and high-energy performances.
Fact: The film was adapted from the 1975 Broadway musical of the same name. It won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Hairspray (2007)
Description: A feel-good musical that tackles social issues like racial integration and body positivity, wrapped in upbeat songs and dance numbers.
Fact: John Travolta played Edna Turnblad, a role traditionally played by a man in drag. The film is a remake of the 1988 John Waters movie.


Dreamgirls (2006)
Description: A musical drama that delves into the highs and lows of fame, with stunning vocal performances and a narrative about personal and professional struggles.
Fact: Jennifer Hudson won an Academy Award for her debut performance. The film is loosely based on the story of The Supremes.


Mamma Mia! (2008)
Description: A vibrant musical that blends romance, comedy, and drama with catchy songs, focusing on personal relationships and self-discovery.
Fact: The film was shot on the Greek island of Skopelos, which saw a significant increase in tourism after its release. All the lead actors performed their own singing.


The Greatest Showman (2017)
Description: A musical that celebrates individuality and the power of dreams, with a strong emotional core and spectacular song-and-dance sequences.
Fact: Hugh Jackman trained for a year to perform the musical numbers. The song 'This Is Me' won the Golden Globe for Best Original Song.


Les Misérables (2012)
Description: A sweeping musical drama with powerful themes of redemption, love, and sacrifice, featuring live singing for a more authentic emotional impact.
Fact: The actors sang live on set instead of lip-syncing to pre-recorded tracks. Anne Hathaway won an Oscar for her performance as Fantine.


Into the Woods (2014)
Description: A fairy tale musical that weaves together multiple classic stories, exploring deeper themes of wishes, consequences, and family.
Fact: The film combines elements from several Brothers Grimm fairy tales. Meryl Streep's performance as the Witch earned her an Oscar nomination.


La La Land (2016)
Description: A modern musical that explores themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams, featuring memorable musical numbers and a bittersweet emotional tone.
Fact: The opening highway sequence was shot in a single take over two days. The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Director for Damien Chazelle.
