The 80+ Best Rock N Roll Movies
- 1Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson
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.
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- #602 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
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- 2Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, Ginnifer Goodwin
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!
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- #8 of 242 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 3The Beatles, Wilfrid Brambell, Norman Rossington
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.
More A Hard Day's Night- #63 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #161 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #43 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- 4Gary Busey, Don Stroud, Charles Martin Smith
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."
- #101 of 242 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #97 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
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- 5Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Pete Townshend
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.
- 6Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Gwilym Lee
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.
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- 7Rob Reiner, Michael McKean, Christopher Guest
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.
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- #212 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #617 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 8Lou Diamond Phillips, Esai Morales, Rosanna DeSoto
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.
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- 9Bob Geldof, Christine Hargreaves, James Laurenson
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.
- #217 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #322 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #131 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- 10Jack Black, Joan Cusack, Mike White
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.
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- #305 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 11The Beatles, Leo McKern, Eleanor Bron
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.
More Help!- #80 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #71 of 167 onThe Greatest '60s Movies, Ranked
- #16 of 99 onThe Greatest Movie Soundtracks Of All Time
- 12Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech
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.
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- 13Val Kilmer, Meg Ryan, Kevin Dillon
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.
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- 14Elvis Presley, Judy Tyler, Mickey Shaughnessy
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.
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- 15Roger Daltrey, Ann-Margret, Oliver Reed
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.
More Tommy- #101 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #107 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #47 of 68 onThe Most Rewatchable Movie Musicals
- 16Tom Berenger, Michael Paré, Ellen Barkin
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."
- #228 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- #48 of 68 onThe Most Rewatchable Movie Musicals
- 17Edward Furlong, Giuseppe Andrews, James DeBello
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.
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- 18
Great Balls of Fire!
Dennis Quaid, Winona Ryder, John DoeDennis 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.
- 19John Cusack, Iben Hjejle, Todd Louiso
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.
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- 20Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden
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.
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- #34 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- 21Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Aniston, Jason Flemyng
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.
- 22P.J. Soles, Vince Van Patten, Clint Howard
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.
- 23The Beatles
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.
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- 24John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing
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.
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- #48 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 25Prince, Apollonia Kotero, Morris Day
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.
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- 26Elvis Presley, Ann-Margret, Teri Garr
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.
- 27Angela Bassett, Laurence Fishburne, Vanessa Bell Calloway
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.
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- 28Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Paul Simon
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.
- 29Robbie Robertson, Muddy Waters, Neil Young
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.
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- 30Steve Vai, Jami Gertz, Ralph Macchio
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.
