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'The Phantom of the Opera' (2004) -

We can't resist a mix of drama, romance, and music, and 'The Phantom of the Opera' delivers just that. Starring Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum, this film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic 1986 musical features all of his unforgettable music.

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'Tick, Tick... Boom!' (2021) -

Directed by the acclaimed Lin-Manuel Miranda, this musical stars Andrew Garfield and Alexandra Shipp. The film tells the story of an aspiring composer struggling with self-doubt about his career choice, all while balancing love, friendship, and his professional ambitions.

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'The Sound of Music' (1965) -

The iconic musical starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, set in the Austrian Alps, tells the heartwarming story of a governess who brings joy to a widowed captain's family. You'll probably find yourself singing 'Do-Re-Mi' nonstop.

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'Footloose' (1984) -

Who doesn't love a jam to the 'Footloose' soundtrack? Kevin Bacon stars as Ren, a teenager who moves to a town where rock music and dancing are banned. He sparks a campaign to lift the ban, fighting for his right to dance and have fun. And we all love it!

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'The Color Purple' (2023) -

Originally a powerful 1980s novel by Alice Walker, 'The Color Purple' was adapted into a 1985 film and became a Broadway hit in 2005. The 2023 musical movie version stars Danielle Brooks, Fantasia Barrino, and Halle Bailey. 

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'Hamilton' (2020) -

One of the most beloved musicals of all time, 'Hamilton' had fans ecstatic when the movie version was released in 2020. Starring Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ariana DeBose, Daveed Diggs, and more, this live-capture film from the Richard Rodgers Theatre takes us through the journey of Alexander Hamilton.

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'Fame' (1980) -

This musical drama follows a group of teens at New York's High School for the Performing Arts as they pursue their dreams of stardom in show business, all while navigating the heartbreaks and challenges of growing up. With iconic songs, their journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about the music.

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'Mamma Mia!' (2008) -

'Mamma Mia!' is a vibrant musical set on a beautiful Greek island, featuring ABBA's greatest hits. Starring Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, and Pierce Brosnan, it's a feel-good story of love, family, and self-discovery.

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'Grease' (1978) -

This iconic musical, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, is set in the 1950s and follows the romance between Danny and Sandy. With unforgettable songs, dazzling dance numbers, and timeless charm, it remains a classic.

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'Cyrano' (2021) -

Peter Dinklage, known for 'Game of Thrones,' stars in this Golden Globe-nominated musical romantic drama, based on the acclaimed 2018 stage musical. Truly, a captivating and unforgettable experience.

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'Moulin Rouge!' (2001) -

Baz Luhrmann reignited our love for musicals in 2001 with 'Moulin Rouge!', a visually stunning story set in Paris. It follows Christian, a poet who falls in love with the dancer Satine. Starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, it's simply unforgettable.

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'Dreamgirls' (2006) -

Featuring Jennifer Hudson’s Oscar-winning performance as Effie, 'Dreamgirls' is packed with sequins, sass, and unforgettable tunes. This rags-to-riches tale, starring Beyoncé, will definitely have you singing along.

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'Chicago' (2002) -

Two women on death row battle for fame in this 2002 musical. With a killer soundtrack, an all-star cast (Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere), and outfit envy, it's no wonder it earned 12 Oscar nominations.

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'Elvis' (2022) -

Starring Austin Butler as the King of Rock 'n' Roll and Olivia DeJonge as Priscilla Presley, the film explores Elvis' meteoric rise to fame and his complex relationship with manager Colonel Tom Parker, played by Tom Hanks.

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'La La Land' (2016) -

Starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, 'La La Land' tells the story of an aspiring actress and a jazz musician chasing their Hollywood dreams. With its unforgettable opening scene and Oscar-winning performances, it's a joyful film that will make you sing and dance. 

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'Saturday Night Fever' (1977) -

'Saturday Night Fever' stars John Travolta as Tony, a Brooklyn teen who escapes his troubles by dancing at the local disco. When he meets Stephanie, their story unfolds against the backdrop of class struggles, set to the iconic Bee Gees soundtrack.

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'Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga' (2020) -

This hilarious film, starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams, follows aspiring musicians Lars and Sigrit as they compete in the world’s biggest song contest. With catchy tunes like the Oscar-nominated 'Husavik,' it's a musical comedy full of laughs and great music!

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'West Side Story' (1961) -

The 1961 musical film 'West Side Story,' a vibrant retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in 1950s New York, and its 2021 reimagining by Steven Spielberg both won Oscars, celebrating their timeless storytelling and artistry.

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'A Star is Born' (2018) -

Starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga, 'A Star Is Born' follows musician Jackson and struggling artist Ally, whose rising career strains their relationship as Jackson battles alcoholism. A standout film of 2018, it cemented Gaga as a Hollywood star.

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'The Greatest Showman' (2017) -

Released in late 2017, 'The Greatest Showman' stars Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, and Zendaya. The star-studded musical follows P.T. Barnum's rise to fame through his circus, but as he gambles everything, his success begins to unravel.

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'Hairspray' (2007) -

John Travolta leads the 2007 'Hairspray' cast in this vibrant musical about Tracy Turnblad, a teen who becomes an overnight sensation on a '60s Baltimore dance show. Based on the 1988 film, it blends glamour with powerful themes of racial integration.

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'Pitch Perfect' (2012) -

Starring Rebel Wilson and Anna Kendrick, 'Pitch Perfect' kicked off the popular franchise with its perfect blend of humor and toe-tapping music, following the intense battles between rival a cappella groups.

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'Begin Again' (2013) -

This rom-com musical stars Keira Knightley as an aspiring songwriter who, after being dumped by her partner, teams up with a down-and-out music producer (Mark Ruffalo) to create a unique album. A heartwarming film about second chances and creativity.

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'Respect' (2021) -

Starring Jennifer Hudson, personally chosen by Aretha Franklin herself before her passing, the film chronicles her journey from age 10, highlighting the struggles she overcame and her rise to legendary status.

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'Mary Poppins Returns' (2018) -

The highly anticipated return of Mary Poppins more than lives up to the original. Emily Blunt stars as the magical nanny, returning 20 years later to help the Banks children through a tough time. Prepare to sing your heart out!

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'Rocketman' (2019) -

Directed by Dexter Fletcher, 'Rocketman' tells the epic story of Sir Elton John, from his 1970s breakthrough to his rise as a global icon. Starring Taron Egerton and Richard Madden, the film dazzles with Elton's greatest hits.

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'Wicked' (2024) -

As 'Wicked' dazzles on the big screen, fans are tempted to belt out iconic tunes like 'Defying Gravity.' However, AMC Theatres' strict no-singing rule reignites debates over movie theater etiquette. Better to wait and sing your heart out after the movie!

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'Dear Evan Hansen' (2021) -

The Tony and Grammy Award-winning musical 'Dear Evan Hansen' is a heartfelt film adaptation that arrived in 2020. Starring Ben Platt as a socially anxious high schooler, it explores grief, self-acceptance, and healing, featuring emotional performances and powerful songs.

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'Yesterday' (2019) -

Starring Himesh Patel, Lily James, and Ed Sheeran, 'Yesterday' was 2019's ultimate feel-good hit. A perfect sing-along, it follows Jack, who rises to fame by performing The Beatles' songs in a world that's forgotten they ever existed.

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'Matilda The Musical' (2022) -

This musical follows the clever Matilda, who uses her telekinetic powers and support from her kind teacher to confront her harsh parents and fearsome headmistress. The film's viral song-and-dance numbers make for an unforgettable sing-a-long experience.

Sources: (Glamour) (Independent) 

See also: Best of Broadway: The most iconic live musicals

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