The Best Movies About Becoming Famous
Vote up your favorite movies about a rise to fame; they do not necessarily have to show the fall.
- 1Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, Ginnifer Goodwin
Chronicling the life and rise to fame of legendary singer Johnny Cash, this biographical drama showcases the hardships and perseverance that shaped the iconic musician. The film delves into Cash's tumultuous past, including his impoverished upbringing, struggle with addiction, and his passionate love story with fellow singer June Carter. Through captivating performances and a raw portrayal of the music industry, audiences bear witness to Cash's battle for fame and recognition.
More Walk the Line
- #359 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #8 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #6 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005
- 2Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Olivia DeJonge
This biopic explores the life and career of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, from his humble beginnings to global superstardom. Showcasing the complex man behind the music, the film touches on his relationships with family, friends, and industry insiders, as well as the challenges he faced in his personal life. The film not only celebrates Elvis' enduring impact on popular culture but also offers a candid look at the cost of fame and adoration.
More Elvis - 3Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Gwilym Lee
This electrifying biopic tells the story of legendary rock band Queen, with a particular focus on the life of its charismatic frontman, Freddie Mercury. The film delves into Mercury's personal journey, showcasing his relationships, sexuality, and battle with AIDS alongside the band's ascent to international fame. The captivating performances and stunning recreations of iconic concerts make it both an intimate portrait of the man behind the music and a celebration of Queen's enduring legacy.
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- #21 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 4O'Shea Jackson, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell
A riveting biographical drama that tells the story of hip-hop group N.W.A., who emerged from the streets of Compton, California, in the late 1980s and revolutionized the music industry. The film captures the group's rise to fame, tackling themes of police brutality, systemic racism, and the power of artistic expression. It offers an unflinching look at the lives of its members and the cultural significance of their groundbreaking music.
- #109 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #33 of 99 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
- #5 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics Of All Time, Ranked
- 5Jennifer Lopez, Edward James Olmos, Jon Seda
This heartfelt biopic chronicles the meteoric rise of Tejano music star Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, capturing the effervescent spirit and passion that made her an icon. The film explores the close-knit Quintanilla family dynamics, touching on the sacrifices and trials they faced as Selena's career took off. Ultimately, it pays tribute to Selena's legacy as a trailblazer for Latinx artists and her enduring impact on music and fashion.
- 6Jamie Foxx, Kerry Washington, Regina King
This powerful biopic tells the incredible story of Ray Charles, the influential musician who overcame blindness to become one of the most celebrated performers in history. The film follows Charles' tumultuous life, touching on his relationship with his mother, his struggle with addiction, and the triumphs and setbacks of his career. It pays homage to the indomitable spirit and extraordinary talent that made Charles a true legend.
More Ray- #40 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #34 of 99 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
- #146 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 7Angela Bassett, Derek Luke, Jamal Woolard
A gripping biographical drama that chronicles the life and career of Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., one of the most influential rappers of all time. The film follows Wallace's rise from the streets of Brooklyn, New York, to the top of the hip-hop world, touching on his relationships, rivalries, and untimely death. It's a raw and unfiltered tribute to the lasting impact of his music and the man behind it all.
More Notorious - 8Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Justin Timberlake
This critically acclaimed drama explores the inception of social media giant Facebook, founded by Mark Zuckerberg during his time at Harvard University. The film delves into the legal battles and personal turmoil surrounding the platform's creation, painting a complex picture of ambition, ego, and the price of success. By examining the relationships and betrayals that came with Zuckerberg's pursuit of fame, the film offers an insightful look at the birth of the digital age.
More The Social Network- #224 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #116 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #212 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 9Angela Bassett, Laurence Fishburne, Vanessa Bell Calloway
Adapted from Tina Turner's autobiography, this gripping biopic tells the harrowing tale of the iconic singer's journey to stardom, her tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner, and her eventual liberation. The film captures the resilience and strength that defined Turner's career and life, showcasing her courage in breaking free from abuse and reestablishing herself as a dominant force in the music industry. It ultimately serves as a powerful tribute to Turner's indomitable spirit and immense talent.
- #48 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #17 of 99 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
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- 10Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden
This fantastical musical biopic tells the incredible story of Elton John, one of the world's most beloved and successful musicians. The film delves into his early life, charting his rise from a shy piano prodigy to an international sensation, while also touching on his struggles with addiction, sexuality, and identity. Through its unique blend of fantasy and reality, the film captures the essence of Elton John's larger-than-life persona and his enduring impact on popular culture.
More Rocketman- Dig Deeper...All Of The Inaccuracies In 'Rocketman'
- #123 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #35 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- 11Lou Diamond Phillips, Esai Morales, Rosanna DeSoto
Chronicling the brief but meteoric rise of rock 'n' roll icon Ritchie Valens, this biographical drama depicts the young musician's journey from humble beginnings to chart-topping success. The film delves into Valens' family life, his passionate love story with Donna Ludwig, and the tragic plane crash that claimed his life at just 17 years old. Ultimately, the film stands as a testament to Valens' enduring influence on popular music and his status as a pioneering Latin American artist.
More La Bamba- #37 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
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- 12Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, Alia Shawkat
Based on the real-life story of the groundbreaking all-female rock band The Runaways, this biographical drama focuses on the tumultuous relationship between founding members Cherie Currie and Joan Jett. The film explores the band's meteoric rise to fame in the 1970s, as well as the pressures and pitfalls they faced along the way. With captivating performances and a raw portrayal of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, the film pays tribute to the trailblazing women who paved the way for future female artists.
More The Runaways- #194 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
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- #10 of 14 onThe Most Wildly Inaccurate Biopics Of Famous Musicians And Bands
- 13Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson
Set in the 1970s, this coming-of-age drama follows aspiring teenage journalist William Miller as he lands a writing assignment for Rolling Stone magazine, covering an up-and-coming rock band. Through his experiences with the band and their entourage of groupies, William gains insight into the highs and lows of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle and learns valuable lessons about the nature of fame and the price of success. The film captures the spirit of the era and offers a heartfelt exploration of the transformative power of music.
More Almost Famous- #602 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #132 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #14 of 54 onThe Best Movies 'Loosely' Based On True Stories
- 14John Lloyd Young, Erich Bergen, Michael Lomenda
Based on the hit Broadway musical, this film adaptation chronicles the lives and careers of the iconic 1960s rock group The Four Seasons. The story is narrated by each member, offering unique insights into their respective experiences and the group's rise to fame. Alongside toe-tapping musical performances, the film also delves into the trials and tribulations faced by the band members, making it an entertaining and fascinating portrayal of their journey.
- 15Boyz II Men
This documentary-style film offers an intimate look at the life of pop sensation Justin Bieber, who rose from a humble background to become a global superstar. The film interweaves personal interviews and behind-the-scenes footage of concert preparations, candidly showcasing Bieber's hard work and dedication to his craft. The enduring appeal of this film lies in its testimony to the power of social media and its potential to change the trajectory of a young artist's life.
- 16Adrien Brody, Beyoncé, Jeffrey Wright
Based on the true story of Chess Records, this biographical drama delves into the turbulent world of the 1950s Chicago music scene, where artists like Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, and Etta James rose to fame. The film captures the highs and lows of these musicians' careers, exploring themes of racism, addiction, and betrayal alongside their groundbreaking accomplishments. Ultimately, it presents an engrossing look at the birth of modern-day music and the influential figures who helped shape it.
More Cadillac Records- #151 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #20 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics Of All Time, Ranked
- #25 of 85 onGreat Historical Black Movies Based On True Stories
- 17Robert Townsend, Michael Wright, Leon
This musical drama follows the fictional R&B group The Five Heartbeats as they navigate the trials and tribulations of the music industry in the 1960s and 1970s. The film explores each member's individual journey, capturing their struggles with fame, fortune, and personal demons. With its heartfelt performances and captivating musical numbers, the film serves as a touching tribute to the group's enduring bond and their shared passion for music.
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- 18Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renée Zellweger, Richard Gere
This dazzling adaptation of the Broadway musical tells the tale of two ambitious women, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who seek fame and fortune in the cutthroat world of 1920s Chicago. As they become embroiled in the city's underworld of crime and corruption, the women use their wits and charm to manipulate public opinion and achieve their dreams of stardom. The film's stunning visuals and incredible choreography make it a captivating exploration of the intoxicating lure of fame.
More Chicago - 19Prince, Apollonia Kotero, Morris Day
Starring the legendary Prince, this musical drama revolves around a talented but troubled musician known as "The Kid," who grapples with his tumultuous family life and his battle for recognition in the competitive Minneapolis music scene. The film showcases Prince's incredible musicianship and features iconic songs such as "Purple Rain" and "When Doves Cry." By interweaving drama, romance, and electrifying musical performances, the film offers a powerful exploration of the pursuit of fame and the healing power of music.
More Purple Rain- #194 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- 20Chris Rock, Allen Payne, Deezer DMore CB4
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- #45 of 75 onThe Best '90s Black Movies, Ranked
- 21Ana de Armas, Bobby Cannavale, Adrien Brody
- 22Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon SchaechMore That Thing You Do!
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- 23Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Aniston, Jason Flemyng
Inspired by the real-life story of Tim "Ripper" Owens, this fictional drama follows aspiring rock singer Chris Cole as he goes from small-time tribute band frontman to lead singer of his favorite metal group, Steel Dragon. The film explores the seductive world of fame and fortune, touching on the dark side of success as Chris grapples with the reality of his newfound stardom. Featuring electrifying musical performances and a compelling tale of ambition, the film provides a captivating exploration of the pursuit of one's dreams.
- 24Mary McCormack, Fred Norris, Paul Giamatti
Based on the bestselling autobiography of radio personality Howard Stern, this comedic biopic tells the story of Stern's rise to fame as the self-proclaimed "King of All Media." The film explores Stern's path from humble beginnings to becoming one of America's most influential and controversial broadcasters. With its frank discussions of censorship, free speech, and personal relationships, the film offers an insightful look at the challenges and triumphs faced by a true media trailblazer.
- 25Andrew Garfield, Maya Hawke, Nat Wolff
A darkly comedic exploration of the world of internet fame, this film follows Frankie, an aspiring filmmaker who stumbles upon Link, a charismatic drifter with a knack for going viral. Together, they create an online persona that leads to unexpected fame and success, but ultimately spirals out of control as the line between online and offline realities blurs. The film serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the consequences of chasing fame in the digital age.
- 26John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks
Focusing on two distinct periods in the life of Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson, this biographical drama showcases the genius and personal struggles that shaped his life and music. The film oscillates between Wilson's creative peak in the 1960s, during which he battles mental illness and strained relationships, and the 1980s, where he is under the manipulative control of his therapist, Dr. Eugene Landy. By revealing the man behind the music, the film offers a compassionate look at the challenges Wilson faced and the enduring influence of his work.
More Love & Mercy- #71 of 99 onThe Best Movies Of 2015
- #191 of 228 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #83 of 97 onThe Best Period Movies Set in the '80s
- 27John Travolta, Nikki Blonsky, Amanda Bynes
Set in 1960s Baltimore, this feel-good musical centers on plucky teenager Tracy Turnblad, who dreams of becoming a star on a popular local dance show. As she pursues her dreams of fame, Tracy faces adversity but ultimately plays a crucial role in breaking down racial barriers in the entertainment industry. The film succeeds in blending humor, heart, and catchy tunes, making it a charming ode to the transformative power of ambition and self-belief.
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- #28 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
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- 28Jason Scott Lee, Lauren Holly, Robert Wagner
This biographical drama tells the story of martial arts legend Bruce Lee, following his journey from a young kung fu student in Hong Kong to an international film icon. The film explores Lee's personal struggles, including his battle against racial prejudice, his relentless drive to succeed, and his ultimate triumph as one of the most influential martial artists and actors in history. Through its thrilling fight sequences and heartfelt storytelling, the film pays tribute to the enduring legacy of an extraordinary man.
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- 29Terrence Howard, Anthony Anderson, Taryn Manning
This engaging drama tells the story of DJay, a Memphis pimp and hustler who dreams of escaping his hardscrabble life by becoming a successful rapper. Overcoming numerous obstacles and finding support from unlikely sources, DJay pursues his dreams with determination, passion, and heart. The film offers a compelling examination of the often-harsh realities of the music industry and the power of artistic expression to change lives.
More Hustle & Flow- #119 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005
- #78 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #117 of 175 onThe Best Movies About Music
- 30Emile Hirsch, Victor Rasuk, John Robinson
Based on the true story of a group of young skateboarders who revolutionized the sport in the 1970s, this character-driven drama offers a gritty look at the price and perils of overnight fame. Set against the backdrop of sunny Venice Beach, California, the film charts the rise of the Zephyr Skateboarding Team, their intensely competitive nature, and the impact of their newfound success on their friendships and personal lives. By combining thrilling skating sequences with a touching exploration of camaraderie, the film creates a compelling portrait of a subculture that would ultimately change the world of action sports.
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