The 12 Best Recent Movie Musicals That Defy Gravity, Including Wicked & The Greatest Showman

Musicals have long been a beloved part of cinema, blending storytelling with unforgettable songs and dazzling choreography. In recent years, the genre has experienced an exciting resurgence, with filmmakers reimagining the classic movie musical for modern audiences. Whether reviving Broadway hits, telling original stories through song, or paying homage to musical traditions with fresh twists, these films have captivated viewers and reignited the magic of musical storytelling.

From vibrant, feel-good spectacles to emotionally rich dramas, recent movie musicals have proven that the genre is as versatile as ever. With star-studded casts, stunning visuals, and soundtracks that stay with audiences long after the credits roll, these films have earned their place among the greatest of recent years. Some have introduced new generations to timeless musical classics, while others have pushed creative boundaries with bold and innovative storytelling.

12 Wicked (2024)

Directed By Jon M. Chu

Wicked was everywhere when it was first released on the big screen, and for good reason: it's an enchanting movie musical. The film is based on the 2003 smash-hit Broadway musical of the same name that serves as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz. Wicked follows Elphaba, the younger version of the Wicked Witch of the West, as she attends a private school in Oz alongside a younger version of Glinda the Good.

A composite image of Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda in Wicked

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The two share a poignant friendship despite having opposite personalities. It's clear, from the Oscar-nominated performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, that Elphaba and Glinda respect each other more than anything. But performances aside, Wicked is a visual marvel that perfectly captures the magic of Oz, as first seen in the Judy Garland classic. There's a reason Wicked has been nominated for a whopping 10 Oscars: it's musical, magical, and meaningful. Plus,Wicked: For Good is coming later in 2025, so the Wicked sensation is far from over.

11 La La Land (2016)

Directed By Damien Chazelle

La La Land is a beautifully crafted musical that blends classic Hollywood romance with modern storytelling. The film follows aspiring actress Mia, played by Emma Stone in an Oscar-winning performance, and jazz musician Sebastian, played by Ryan Gosling, as they chase their dreams in Los Angeles while navigating their love story.

Blended image of Mia (Emma Stone) at a jazz bar looking sad and Seb (Ryan Gosling) looking out at her, also looking sad, in La La Land

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The film stands out for its stunning cinematography, vibrant colors, and nostalgic homage to old Hollywood musicals. The musical features unforgettable songs like "City of Stars" and "Another Day of Sun", perfectly capturing the film’s dreamy yet bittersweet tone. Stone and Gosling deliver heartfelt performances, making their characters' struggles and ambitions deeply relatable. What makes La La Land truly special is its emotional depth, it celebrates love and ambition while acknowledging the sacrifices that come with chasing dreams. The ending is both heartbreaking and poetic, leaving a lasting impact.

10 Encanto (2021)

Directed By Jared Bush & Byron Howard

Encanto is one of Disney's best recent animated films, and that's largely because of its music. The soundtrack hits on every level, from the incredibly catchy viral sensation "We Don't Talk About Bruno" to the heartfelt "Waiting on a Miracle." The songs express how the characters feel and advance the story in musical form, which is what any good musical should do. Encanto's animation is colorful and expressive, perfectly capturing the characters' vibrant village in Colombia.

However, the best part of Encanto is likely its characters. From the tenacious Mirabel to the elusive Bruno to the unbreakable Luisa, viewers can see themselves in each character. Encanto also doesn't do the annoying twist villain thing that has been seen in so many Disney films for years. Instead, the "villain" is generational trauma, which is so much more relatable than a crooked assistant or an evil prince.

9 The Greatest Showman (2017)

Directed By Michael Gracey

The Greatest Showman is a visually stunning, uplifting musical that celebrates ambition, diversity, and the power of dreams. Starring Hugh Jackman as real-life ringleader P.T. Barnum, the film follows his rise from poverty to creating a spectacular circus filled with unique performers. What makes the movie great is its inspiring message about embracing individuality and overcoming adversity. The Greatest Showman soundtrack, featuring songs like "This Is Me" and "Rewrite the Stars", is a major highlight, with powerful anthems that resonate emotionally. The choreography and cinematography add to the film’s dazzling, theatrical appeal.

While not entirely historically accurate, the film prioritizes emotion over facts, creating an uplifting experience.

Jackman’s passionate performance, alongside a talented ensemble cast including Zendaya, Zac Efron, and Keala Settle, brings warmth and energy to the story. While not entirely historically accurate, the film prioritizes emotion over facts, creating an uplifting experience. Plus, a stage play of The Greatest Showman is on the way, so the circus isn't leaving town anytime soon.

8 In The Heights (2021)

Directed By Jon M. Chu

In the Heights directed by Jon M. Chu of Wicked and Crazy Rich Asians fame and based on the Broadway musical by the endlessly talented Lin-Manuel Miranda, is a vibrant and heartwarming film that showcases the power of community, culture, and dreams. Set in the Dominican American neighborhood of Washington Heights, New York, the movie brings the musical’s themes of hope, identity, and determination to life with colorful visuals, energetic choreography, and a memorable soundtrack.

The film excels in its diverse representation, an essential aspect of the Broadway musical. It portrays the immigrant experience and the bonds formed within tight-knit communities. The performances are stellar, with standout roles from Anthony Ramos as Usnavi, who brings charm and depth to the role. The music, blending Latin rhythms with Broadway-style songs, adds emotional resonance to the narrative, making it a poignant musical.

7 Wonka (2023)

Directed By Paul King

Wonka is a delightful and imaginative prequel to the beloved Charlie and the Chocolate Factory story. The film offers a fresh, whimsical take on the origin of Willy Wonka, exploring his early life and the journey that led him to create his iconic chocolate factory. Timothée Chalamet shines in the lead role, bringing a youthful energy and quirky charm to the character, making him both playful and endearing.

The film excels with its enchanting visuals, vibrant set designs, and whimsical costumes, creating a fantastical world that captures the spirit of Roald Dahl’s beloved creation. The musical numbers are catchy and fun, adding to the film’s magic. Wonka is more than just a prequel; it’s a heartwarming story about ambition, creativity, and pursuing dreams.

6 West Side Story (2021)

Directed By Steven Spielberg

Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adaptation of the classic 1957 Broadway musical. While the film is a remake of 1961's West Side Story, which won the Oscar for Best Picture that year, the 2021 film brings fresh life to the timeless tale of love, rivalry, and tragedy set against the backdrop of 1950s New York City.

Spielberg’s direction captures both the raw energy of the original and the modern sensibilities needed to make it relevant today.

Spielberg’s direction captures both the raw energy of the original and the modern sensibilities needed to make it relevant today. West Side Story features outstanding performances, particularly Ariana DeBose's portrayal of Anita, earning her an Oscar win for Best Supporting Actress. (Rita Moreno also won for playing the same character in the 1961 movie.) The choreography is breathtaking, ensuring that the dance sequences remain captivating and dynamic while still fitting the film's tone.

5 Tick Tick...Boom! (2021)

Directed By Lin-Manuel Miranda

Tick, Tick…Boom!, directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda in his feature film directorial debut, is a heartfelt musical that stands out for its authenticity and emotional depth. The film is an adaptation of Jonathan Larson's semi-autobiographical musical. It tells the story of a young Larson, played by Andrew Garfield, who grapples with the pressures of turning 30 while pursuing his dreams of making it in musical theater.

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Andrew Garfield's performance is excellent as he delivers a raw and powerful portrayal of Larson, capturing his vulnerability, passion, and frustration. His singing and emotional range bring the musical’s heartfelt songs to life. The film’s direction is visually dynamic, weaving between flashbacks, dream sequences, and live performances, creating a unique narrative style that enhances the storytelling. All we want to know is when Miranda will hop back in the director's chair.

4 Dicks: The Musical (2023)

Directed By Larry Charles

Dicks: The Musical is a raunchy and absurdist comedy based on the off-Broadway show F**king Identical Twins by Josh Sharp and Aaron Jackson. The film stars the aforementioned duo as business rivals who discover they are long-lost identical twins. Determined to reunite their eccentric, estranged parents, played perfectly by the consistently underrated Nathan Lane and Megan Mullally, they concoct a ridiculous Parent Trap-style scheme.

With extravagant musical numbers and absurd twists, Dicks: The Musical satirizes traditional family tropes while reveling in campy, queer humor.

The A24 movie embraces its over-the-top humor, blending musical theater with irreverent comedy. It features an outlandish supporting cast, including Bowen Yang as God and Megan Thee Stallion as a powerful corporate boss. With extravagant musical numbers and absurd twists, Dicks: The Musical satirizes traditional family tropes while reveling in campy, queer humor.Above all,Dicks: The Musical delivers a bizarre, unpredictable ride that caters to fans of boundary-pushing comedy and unconventional musicals.

3 Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! (2018)

Directed By Ol Parker

Appearances from Meryl Streep and Cher are reason enough to watch the sequel to the iconic 2008 musical Mamma Mia! The film is unique in that it serves as both a prequel and sequel, following Sophie as she reopens her late mother Donna’s hotel while reflecting on Donna’s past.

Lily James does an excellent job portraying young Donna, showing how she met Sophie’s three potential fathers — Sam, Bill, and Harry. The film jumps between timelines, blending nostalgia with new revelations. Cher makes a grand appearance as Sophie’s glamorous grandmother, adding to the star-studded cast. With catchy musical numbers based on ABBA’s hits, like "Fernando" and "Dancing Queen," the film captures the joy and heart of the original while deepening its emotional impact. Though bittersweet, it remains a vibrant, feel-good celebration of love, family, and friendship, delighting ABBA fans and musical lovers alike.

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