The 80+ Best Rock N Roll Movies

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Updated May 15, 2024 36.2K views 82 items
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Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite movies that prominently feature rock music.
Latest additions: Trolls Band Together
Most divisive: The Runaways
Over 1.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 80+ Best Rock N Roll Movies

Over 1,000 movie fans have come together to vote on their favorite rock music movies. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the genre or simply enjoy watching films about its storied history, this list is packed with some of the most memorable rockstars, tunes, and greatest performances in cinema history.

Rock and roll isn't just a genre of music; it’s an attitude, a lifestyle, an energy, a rebellion seeking expression. Embodied by legendary musicians, remembered through timeless lyrics, and immortalized in film. For all you movie buffs and rock enthusiasts out there, it’s time to recline that seat, turn up the volume, and get ready for a head-banging cinematic experience because here, we are featuring some of the greatest rock music movies ever assembled. Admired by critics, and adored by fans, these rock star movies lend us a backstage pass to the world of rock and roll, each narrating a unique story that's sure to resound with the rhythm of your heart.

So, whether it's through biographical dramas chronicling the rise of trailblazing bands, or fictional works with pumping soundtracks, these movies about rock bands take you on an unforgettable journey through chart-topping hits along with the highs and lows of the rockstar lifestyle. Expect classics like Almost Famous and Walk the Line; these are not just movies, they’re anthems of their own, setting your pulses racing and your feet tapping, narrating tales of ambition, passion, and revolution.

It's no secret that the landscape of cinema has been dramatically influenced by music and what bigger phenomenon to celebrate than rock and roll? These movies are not just about music, they're experiences filled with power-packed performances, iconic soundtracks, and rich narratives. Aided by top-notch direction, and raw, relatable portrayals, these rock and roll movies truly incite that invincible, edgy, rock n roll spirit within you.

To make your bingeing process all too easy, below each movie description you will find handy buttons connecting you directly to popular streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, HBO Max, and Paramount+. So, go ahead, select your picks, become one with the music, and let the story unfold.

We've done our part, and now it's up to you. Be more than just a spectator. Cast your vote and show some love for your favorite rock music movies. After all, in the grand tradition of rock and roll, let’s not just watch, but participate. So, get ready to ride this thrilling roller coaster of rock music, and who knows, by the end of it, you might feel a little more rock n roll in your soul.

  • Almost Famous
    1
    Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson
    359 votes

    This coming-of-age tale, by Cameron Crowe, follows a teen journalist as he gets his first taste of life on the road with an up-and-coming rock band in the 1970s. The film charms audiences with its witty dialogue, an endearing cast of characters, and that unforgettable scene on the tour bus when everyone belts out Elton John’s "Tiny Dancer" together. It serves as a poignant tribute to the golden era of rock and roll and remains a much-loved classic.

  • Walk the Line
    2
    Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, Ginnifer Goodwin
    160 votes

    Diving deep into the life and times of Johnny Cash, this biopic showcases both the highs and lows of this legendary musician's career. With Joaquin Phoenix giving a mesmerizing performance as Cash and Reese Witherspoon winning an Oscar for her portrayal of June Carter Cash, this film powerfully portrays the transformative impact of love and redemption against a backdrop of soul-stirring music. Plus, hearing Phoenix belt out Cash's classics is just sheer ear candy!

  • A Hard Day's Night
    3
    The Beatles, Wilfrid Brambell, Norman Rossington
    285 votes

    This British musical comedy film captures the frenzy and excitement surrounding The Beatles at the peak of their popularity. This black-and-white delight features iconic performances of hits like "Can't Buy Me Love" while showcasing the charm and humor that made John, Paul, George, and Ringo worldwide sensations. In addition to being a fun romp through Beatlemania, it also highlights the camaraderie and unique chemistry among the band members.

  • The Buddy Holly Story
    4
    Gary Busey, Don Stroud, Charles Martin Smith
    203 votes

    Starring Gary Busey as Buddy Holly himself, this critically acclaimed film provides a vivid portrait of the early days of rock and roll through Holly's meteoric rise to fame and tragic death at age 22. With memorable live performances and a captivating soundtrack, it celebrates the enduring legacy of one of rock music's pioneers who created such timeless gems like "Peggy Sue" and "That'll Be the Day."

  • Bohemian Rhapsody
    5
    Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Gwilym Lee
    181 votes

    This rhapsodic biopic chronicles the rise of one of the world's most beloved rock bands – Queen – as well as its flamboyant and distinctive lead singer, Freddie Mercury. With an Oscar-winning performance by Rami Malek as Mercury, this film pays homage to the band's iconic anthems and poignant journey towards their historical Live Aid performance in 1985. It is truly a foot-stomping celebration of Queen, their music, and their extraordinary lead singer who defied stereotypes and shattered convention.

  • Woodstock
    6
    Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Pete Townshend
    265 votes

    This documentary captures the transformative music festival that defined a generation and became a symbol of peace, love, and unity for the counterculture movement of the 1960s. With electrifying performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, The Who, and other legends, this cinematic journey transports viewers back to that unforgettable weekend in August 1969. A must-watch for any rock music enthusiast looking to experience a milestone event in cultural history.

  • This Is Spinal Tap
    7
    Rob Reiner, Michael McKean, Christopher Guest
    384 votes

    No list of rock movies would be complete without this hilarious mockumentary that pokes fun at rock bands' excesses and idiosyncrasies. Chronicling the exploits of fictional British band Spinal Tap, it brilliantly satirizes everything from outrageous onstage antics to pretentious personal rivalries. With pitch-perfect performances by Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer, this cult classic stands as one of the funniest films ever made about rock music.

  • La Bamba
    8
    Lou Diamond Phillips, Esai Morales, Rosanna DeSoto
    195 votes

    Chronicling the life of Ritchie Valens and his rise from humble beginnings to become a rock and roll sensation, this film offers a poignant exploration of fame and its consequences. Lou Diamond Phillips delivers a heartfelt portrayal of Valens, a young musician whose talent was tragically cut short in the infamous "Day the Music Died" plane crash. This captivating flick serves as an affectionate tribute to Valens' enduring impact on both American music and popular culture.

  • Pink Floyd – The Wall
    9
    Bob Geldof, Christine Hargreaves, James Laurenson
    355 votes

    This surreal cinematic experience is based on the legendary 1979 concept album The Wall by Pink Floyd. Telling the story of a troubled rock star named Pink, it unfolds through a captivating combination of live-action and animated sequences, fully embracing the album's themes of isolation, alienation, and emotional turmoil. A visual and aural masterpiece that fans of experimental filmmaking and Pink Floyd devotees alike will appreciate.

  • School of Rock
    10
    Jack Black, Joan Cusack, Mike White
    343 votes

    This feel-good comedy stars Jack Black as a down-on-his-luck musician who forms a band with his students at an elite prep school. With its hilarious, heartwarming story and catchy soundtrack, it encourages audiences to shake off conformity and embrace the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. School of Rock showcases the transformative power of music and reminds viewers that everyone has a little rock star inside them.

  • That Thing You Do!
    11
    Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech
    196 votes

    Tom Hanks directed this charming tale about a group of friends who form a rock band called The Wonders in 1964 Pennsylvania. As their song rockets up the charts, they navigate fame, friendship, and love while staying true to their passion for music. Brimming with nostalgic appeal, spot-on period detail, and an infectious title track, this film will leave viewers humming along long after the credits roll.

  • Help!
    12
    The Beatles, Leo McKern, Eleanor Bron
    260 votes

    The Fab Four returns in this vibrant adventure-comedy that sees John, Paul, George, and Ringo embark on a wild escapade to escape an Eastern cult after they accidentally acquire a sacred ring. This humorous romp showcases The Beatles' unmatched chemistry and features a wealth of beloved songs from their repertoire. It's a lighthearted, whimsical nod to the continuing allure of Beatlemania.

  • The Doors
    13
    Val Kilmer, Meg Ryan, Kevin Dillon
    314 votes

    Starring Val Kilmer as legendary frontman Jim Morrison, this biographical drama delves into the tumultuous life and career of The Doors. Director Oliver Stone masterfully captures the band's psychedelic sound, controversial lyrics, and Morrison's magnetic yet enigmatic persona. The film serves as a fascinating window into the late '60s counterculture movement and the brief yet unforgettable flame of an iconic rock legend.

  • Jailhouse Rock
    14
    Elvis Presley, Judy Tyler, Mickey Shaughnessy
    175 votes

    No rock film list would be complete without mentioning this iconic Elvis Presley picture. Starring The King as a young convict who pursues a music career after being released from prison, it features electric performances and unforgettable songs like the title track "Jailhouse Rock." With Presley's unparalleled charisma and hip-swiveling dance moves, this movie defined a new era in both cinema and rock music.

  • Tommy
    15
    Roger Daltrey, Ann-Margret, Oliver Reed
    269 votes

    Adapted from The Who's groundbreaking rock opera album of the same name, this bizarrely fascinating tale follows Tommy, a "deaf, dumb, and blind kid" who becomes a pinball wizard despite his afflictions. With its avant-garde visuals, thought-provoking themes, and powerhouse performances by Roger Daltrey, Ann-Margret, and Oliver Reed, it carves out a unique niche within the annals of rock cinema history.

  • Eddie and the Cruisers
    16
    Tom Berenger, Michael Paré, Ellen Barkin
    114 votes

    Michael Paré stars as the enigmatic Eddie Wilson in this tale about a '60s rock band whose charismatic frontman mysteriously disappears after their first album flops. As his former band members attempt to reconstruct their lives following his alleged death, they uncover tantalizing clues that suggest he may still be alive. This compelling story is underscored by an unforgettable soundtrack, including the hit single "On the Dark Side."

  • Detroit Rock City
    17
    Edward Furlong, Giuseppe Andrews, James DeBello
    187 votes

    Set in 1978, this teen comedy follows four die-hard KISS fans as they do whatever it takes to attend the rock band's concert in Detroit. With a killer '70s soundtrack and plenty of hilarious misadventures, this film revels in the unstoppable power that is teenage fandom and pays homage to one of the most theatrical rock bands of all time.

  • Rocketman
    18
    Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden
    254 votes

    This fantastical musical biopic transports viewers into Elton John's glitter-filled world, chronicling his extraordinary life from modest upbringing to superstardom. With Taron Egerton at the helm giving an impassioned performance as Sir Elton himself, it bucks tradition by incorporating dreamlike elements and full-blown production numbers to create a whimsical yet brutally honest portrait of both the man and his music.

  • High Fidelity
    19
    John Cusack, Iben Hjejle, Todd Louiso
    99 votes

    John Cusack stars as a music-obsessed record store owner who revisits past relationships to understand his romantic troubles – all while creating a top-five list of breakups. This film is an ode to music aficionados everywhere, filled with witty insights into the world of rock enthusiasts and their unwavering passion for tunes that make life worth living.

  • Great Balls of Fire!
    20

    Great Balls of Fire!

    Dennis Quaid, Winona Ryder, John Doe
    149 votes

    Dennis Quaid delivers a fiery portrayal of famed pianist Jerry Lee Lewis in this biographical drama that delves into his personal life, including his controversial marriage to his underage cousin Myra Gale Brown. With its electrifying performances and array of classic tunes like the titular track, this film vividly captures the essence of one of rock 'n' roll's pioneering figures.

  • Rock 'n' Roll High School
    21
    P.J. Soles, Vince Van Patten, Clint Howard
    199 votes

    This cult classic comedy sees students rallying against their principal to save their high school from becoming a new disco hotspot. The Ramones make a memorable appearance as they help lead the charge against conformity while providing catchy punk-rock anthems throughout. A zany romp that celebrates the free-spirited, rebellious nature of rock music.

  • Rock Star
    22
    Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Aniston, Jason Flemyng
    218 votes

    In this tale of unbridled ambition, Mark Wahlberg stars as a die-hard fan whose dream of becoming the lead singer of his favorite rock band comes true. Featuring a killer soundtrack and entertaining performances by Jennifer Aniston and Dominic West, this exhilarating ride through the ups and downs of fame proves there's more to being a rock star than just rocking out on stage.

  • Let It Be
    23
    The Beatles
    104 votes

    This intimate documentary provides a behind-the-scenes look at The Beatles' final days together as they recorded their legendary album, Let It Be. With candid glimpses of the band's creative process, personal rifts, and unforgettable performances – including their iconic rooftop concert – it serves as a fitting tribute to the Fab Four's enduring legacy and offers fans an up-close view of these musicians at work.

  • Grease
    24
    John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing
    110 votes

    This beloved musical transports audiences to the 1950s, following the romance between good girl Sandy (Olivia Newton-John) and bad boy Danny (John Travolta) as they navigate high school life alongside their friends and foes. Bursting with toe-tapping tunes like "Summer Nights" and "Greased Lightnin'" that harken back to the early days of rock and roll, this iconic film still continues to captivate viewers' hearts today.

  • Purple Rain
    25
    Prince, Apollonia Kotero, Morris Day
    118 votes

    This semi-autobiographical film features Prince as "The Kid," navigating both his tumultuous home life and intense rivalry with another local musician. With an Oscar-winning soundtrack that includes iconic songs like "When Doves Cry" and the titular "Purple Rain," this movie showcases Prince's unique talent, mesmerizing stage presence, and unmatched blend of rock, pop, and funk. It remains a must-see for any fan of The Purple One.

  • Viva Las Vegas
    26
    Elvis Presley, Ann-Margret, Teri Garr
    80 votes

    Elvis Presley and Ann-Margret sizzle in this musical rom-com featuring catchy tunes like the title track and thrilling sequences set against the dazzling backdrop of Sin City. Their chemistry is electric as they navigate love, ambition, and high-stakes car racing, ensuring that what happens in Vegas will forever remain a classic in rock cinema history.

  • What's Love Got to Do with It
    27
    Angela Bassett, Laurence Fishburne, Vanessa Bell Calloway
    78 votes

    This powerful biopic tells the story of Tina Turner's rise to fame, chronicling her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner and her triumphant comeback to claim her rightful place in music history. Angela Bassett gives a dynamite performance as the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, capturing both her vulnerability and strength, while Laurence Fishburne delivers a compelling portrayal of Ike. A testament to the enduring power of Tina Turner's music and her incredible life story.

  • Monterey Pop
    28
    Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Paul Simon
    88 votes

    This captivating documentary highlights the magic of the 1967 Monterey International Pop Festival, which saw legendary performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Otis Redding, and many others. Meticulously directed by D.A. Pennebaker, it captures the essence of this groundbreaking event that forever changed the course of popular music. A must-watch for those seeking to experience a pivotal moment in rock history.

  • The Last Waltz
    29
    Robbie Robertson, Muddy Waters, Neil Young
    175 votes

    Directed by Martin Scorsese, this documentary captures The Band's farewell concert featuring guest appearances by legends like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell. Widely considered as one of the greatest concert films ever made, it offers testimony to the enduring power of rock music and captivates audiences with its masterful storytelling.

  • The Rutles
    30
    Eric Idle, Michael Palin, Neil Innes
    82 votes

    Created by Monty Python alum Eric Idle and Neil Innes, this Beatles parody follows the exploits of a fictional British band called The Rutles. With hilarious send-ups of iconic Beatles moments, it cleverly satirizes the band's meteoric rise to fame while paying affectionate homage to their undeniable influence on rock music history.

  • Crossroads
    31
    Steve Vai, Jami Gertz, Ralph Macchio
    117 votes

    Ralph Macchio stars as a young guitarist on a quest for musical authenticity in this cult classic drama that explores the deep roots of American blues music. As his character uncovers secrets from the past while navigating personal obstacles and challenging friendships, it offers an affectionate tribute to the enduring bond between music and its creators.

  • Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
    32
    Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, George Carlin
    137 votes

    This time-traveling comedy sees two lovable slackers (played by Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter) on a quest to assemble historical figures for their school presentation, thereby ensuring their rock band's future success. Equal parts zany and heartwarming, this cult classic celebrates the enduring spirit of rock music and its power to unite people across time and space.

  • Yesterday
    33
    Himesh Patel, Lily James, Kate McKinnon
    47 votes

    Imagine waking up in a world where only you remember The Beatles' music – that's precisely the predicament Himesh Patel's character faces in this delightful, feel-good film. As he reintroduces the Fab Four's timeless songs to a Beatles-less universe, it offers a whimsical celebration of musical genius while exploring themes of love, integrity, and friendship. An undeniable winner for fans of both rock music and romantic-comedies.

  • Heavy Metal
    34
    Harvey Atkin, Thor Bishopric, Rodger Bumpass
    136 votes

    This animated, science-fiction anthology features a series of surreal stories set to a thumping heavy metal soundtrack, including contributions by Blue Öyster Cult, Cheap Trick, and Sammy Hagar. With its boundary-pushing visuals and relentless energy, it pays tribute to the power of rock music and its ability to transcend reality and transport audiences into new realms.

  • Sid and Nancy
    35
    Courtney Love, Gary Oldman, Kathy Burke
    86 votes

    Gary Oldman delivers an unforgettable performance as Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious in this gritty biopic that also stars Chloe Webb as his girlfriend Nancy Spungen. Examining their tumultuous relationship against the backdrop of punk rock's explosive rise, it provides a harsh yet compelling look at the darker side of fame.

  • FM
    36
    Linda Ronstadt, Tom Petty, Alex Karras
    65 votes

    Set in a Los Angeles rock radio station, this comedic drama revolves around a group of disc jockeys fighting against corporate interference that threatens their creative freedom. A fun romp that offers a nostalgic look at the passion for rock music on airwaves, as well as featuring an incredible soundtrack boasting songs by Steely Dan, The Eagles, and Queen.

  • The Runaways
    37
    Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, Alia Shawkat
    167 votes

    Chronicling the formation and rise of the all-female rock band led by Joan Jett (played by Kristen Stewart) and Cherie Currie (Dakota Fanning), this biographical drama captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of these trailblazing musicians. With sizzling performances and an electrifying soundtrack, it pays tribute to the groundbreaking impact of The Runaways on rock music.

  • Stop Making Sense
    38
    Bernie Worrell, Alex Weir, Steven Scales
    132 votes

    Directed by Jonathan Demme, this concert film captures Talking Heads' live performance at Hollywood's Pantages Theater during their 1983 tour. With its innovative staging, riveting performances, and infectious energy, it is widely hailed as one of the greatest concert films ever made – an essential watch for fans of both rock music and extraordinary filmmaking.

  • Elvis
    39
    Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Olivia DeJonge
    27 votes

    This 1979 television movie features Kurt Russell as Elvis Presley, tracing his rise to fame from humble beginnings in Mississippi to becoming a worldwide sensation. With expert direction by John Carpenter and a soundtrack brimming with classic tunes, this biopic effectively captures the King's enduring impact on both music and popular culture.

  • Pirate Radio
    40
    73 votes

    This comedic drama tells the story of a rogue radio station broadcasting rock music from a ship stationed in international waters during the 1960s British government ban. Starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bill Nighy, and Nick Frost, it showcases an impressive ensemble cast and irreverent humor while celebrating the power of rock music as a force for change.

  • Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny
    41
    Jack Black, Kyle Gass, JR Reed
    181 votes

    Jack Black and Kyle Gass star as the titular rock duo in this hilariously absurd quest to acquire a legendary guitar pick said to grant its user unimaginable musical prowess. Filled with outrageous antics and memorable tunes like "The Tribute" and "Beelzeboss," this comedy proves that sometimes destiny can be found even at one's goofiest moments.

  • Blue Hawaii
    42
    Elvis Presley, Joan Blackman, Angela Lansbury
    53 votes

    Elvis Presley stars in this musical romantic comedy set against the stunning backdrop of picturesque Hawaii. As his character navigates career choices and matters of the heart, the film offers a breezy assortment of catchy tunes, including "Can't Help Falling in Love," that showcase The King's effortless charm.

  • Hair
    43
    John Savage, Treat Williams, Beverly D'Angelo
    52 votes

    Set during the height of the Vietnam War, this film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical follows a group of young hippies as they explore their newfound freedom and grapple with impending adulthood. Featuring classic songs like "Aquarius" and "Let the Sunshine In," it captures the spirit of revolution that defined the 1960s counterculture.

  • Rolling Thunder Revue: A Bob Dylan Story by Martin Scorsese
    44
    38 votes

    This pseudo-documentary by legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese follows Bob Dylan's 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue tour, blending concert footage with fictionalized interviews and behind-the-scenes moments. This fascinating examination of one of music's most enigmatic figures serves as both a tribute to Dylan's lasting influence and a testament to the power of rock music in shaping history.

  • Jersey Boys
    45
    John Lloyd Young, Erich Bergen, Michael Lomenda
    43 votes

    Adapted from the Tony Award-winning musical, Clint Eastwood's film chronicles the rise to fame of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons while offering an engrossing look at their turbulent personal lives. Featuring unforgettable hits like "Sherry" and "Big Girls Don't Cry," it pays homage to the group's lasting impact on popular music and provides plenty of sing-along moments.

  • Cadillac Records
    46
    Adrien Brody, Beyoncé, Jeffrey Wright
    40 votes
    In 1947 Chicago, Polish emigrant and bar owner Leonard Chess (Adrien Brody) hires a blues combo that includes guitarist Muddy Waters (Jeffrey Wright) and harmonica player Little Walter (Columbus Short). Waters' and Walter's success leads to Chess' management of stars Etta James (Beyoncé Knowles), Howlin' Wolf (Eamonn Walker), Chuck Berry (Mos Def) and others. Inevitably, business and personal lines blur as the sometimes-turbulent lives of the musicians play out.
  • Airheads
    47
    Brendan Fraser, Steve Buscemi, Adam Sandler
    44 votes

    This offbeat comedy centers around a struggling rock band (played by Brendan Fraser, Steve Buscemi, and Adam Sandler) who take a radio station hostage to have their demo played on air. With its tongue-in-cheek humor and memorable soundtrack, this film offers a lighthearted look at the lengths some musicians will go for a shot at fame.

  • Across the Universe
    48
    Evan Rachel Wood, Jim Sturgess, Joe Anderson
    71 votes
    In the vibrant musical drama Across the Universe, Jude (Jim Sturgess) and Lucy (Evan Rachel Wood) navigate love and life against the tumultuous backdrop of the 1960s. The film, peppered with reimagined Beatles classics, follows their journey from Liverpool to New York amidst war, social change, and personal discovery. Also featuring Sadie (Dana Fuchs), a Janis Joplin-inspired singer, and Jojo (Martin Luther McCoy), a Jimi Hendrix-style guitarist, the movie explores themes of peace, love, and revolution. Director Julie Taymor crafts an evocative narrative that won a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album.
  • Light of Day
    49
    Michael J. Fox, Joan Jett, Gena Rowlands
    51 votes

    Joan Jett and Michael J. Fox star as siblings leading a struggling rock band in this family drama punctuated by powerful performances and a searing soundtrack that includes Bruce Springsteen's titular song. Exploring themes like familial bonds, ambition, and self-discovery, it showcases the transformative power of rock music on both personal and artistic levels.

  • The Dirt
    50
    Douglas Booth, Iwan Rheon, Machine Gun Kelly
    50 votes
    The misfits of Mötley Crüe rise from the streets of Hollywood to the heights of international fame in the 1980s.
  • Frankie and Johnny
    51
    Elvis Presley, Donna Douglas, Harry Morgan
    46 votes

    In this Elvis Presley-led musical, The King stars as a riverboat performer caught in a love triangle between two women. With its captivating songs like "Shout It Out" and "Look Out, Broadway," it showcases Presley's talent for mixing rock 'n' roll with other genres like jazz and gospel.

  • Sing Street
    52

    Sing Street

    Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Jack Reynor
    28 votes
    In 1985, a Dublin teenager (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) forms a rock 'n' roll band to win the heart of an aspiring model (Lucy Boynton).
  • Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
    53
    Peter Frampton, Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb
    92 votes

    Inspired by The Beatles' iconic album of the same name, this star-studded musical extravaganza follows a small-town band's efforts to save their beloved hometown from greedy developers. With its inventive visuals and catchy interpretations of Beatles' classics like "With a Little Help from My Friends" and "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," it serves as a fantastical celebration of one of rock music's most enduring and influential albums.

  • SLC Punk!
    54
    Jason Segel, Matthew Lillard, Devon Sawa
    43 votes
    SLC Punk! is a 1998 American comedy-drama film written and directed by James Merendino. The film is about the young punk rock fan Steven "Stevo" Levy, a college graduate living in Salt Lake City. The character is portrayed as a stereotype of an anarchist punk in the mid-1980s. Many events and characters in the movie are allegedly based on real life, although they may have been exaggerated. The character of Stevo is based on the life of writer/director James Merendino, although the character is named after Stephen Egerton, originally known as Stephen "Stevo" O'Reilly, who played for the Salt Lake City punk band Massacre Guys, and eventually joined the L.A. bands Descendents and ALL. SLC Punk was chosen as the opening-night feature at the 1999 Sundance Film Festival. Merendino created the film based on his experience growing up in Salt Lake City. Although the film is not autobiographical, Merendino has said that many characters were based on people he knew.
  • The Boat That Rocked
    55
    Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bill Nighy, Rhys Ifans
    110 votes
    In 1966, BBC radio broadcasts less than an hour of pop music a day, forcing pirate DJs to take up the slack from boats anchored outside British waters. Quentin (Bill Nighy) is the commander of such a pirate station, overseeing a host of seedy, lusty and dope-smoking DJs, including the Count (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Dave (Nick Frost), who makes it his personal mission to see to it that Quentin's newly arrived godson (Tom Sturridge) loses his virginity.
  • Echo in the Canyon
    56
    Jakob Dylan, Brian Wilson, Tom Petty
    36 votes
    Echo In The Canyon is a 2018 American documentary film directed by Andrew Slater. The documentary is an examination of Los Angeles's Laurel Canyon and its musical history.
  • Shine a Light
    57
    Bruce Willis, Benicio del Toro, Michael Gross
    37 votes
    Filmmaker Martin Scorsese documents the Rolling Stones' energetic performance at New York's Beacon Theatre. The concert, filmed in 2006, features Stones standards and favorites, plus guest appearances by Buddy Guy, Christina Aguilera and Jack White III. Scorsese takes note of the band's long career with music clips and interviews from previous decades.
  • Nowhere Boy
    58
    Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Anne-Marie Duff
    50 votes
    A rebellious teenager, future Beatle John Lennon (Aaron Johnson) lives with his Aunt Mimi (Kristin Scott Thomas) in working-class Liverpool, England. Mimi's husband suddenly dies, and John spies his mother, Julia (Anne-Marie Duff), at the funeral. Despite Mimi's misgivings, John intends to have a real relationship with his mother. Julia introduces him to popular music and the banjo and, though a family conflict looms, young Lennon is inspired to form his own band.
  • Blinded by the Light
    59
    Viveik Kalra, Hayley Atwell, Rob Brydon
    34 votes
    Javed is a Pakistani teenager who experiences racial and economic turmoil while living in Luton, England, in 1987. He writes poetry as a way to escape the intolerance of his hometown and the stubborn views of his traditional father. When a classmate introduces him to the music of Bruce Springsteeen, Javed sees parallels between the singer's powerful lyrics and his own working-class environment. Springsteen's melodies soon inspire Javed to find his own voice and follow his dreams.
  • Inside Llewyn Davis
    60
    Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, John Goodman
    37 votes
    In 1961 New York City, folk singer Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) is at a crossroads. Guitar in hand, he struggles against seemingly insurmountable obstacles to make a name for himself in the music world, but so far, success remains elusive. Relying on the kindness of both friends and strangers, Llewyn embarks on an odyssey that takes him from the streets of Greenwich Village to a Chicago club, where awaits a music mogul who could give him the big break that he desperately needs.