The other day someone mentioned Val Kilmer’s performance in The Doors as the complete opposite of a terrible singing performance in movies. It was suggested that I do an article on great singing performances by non-singing actors in movies. With a little digging and a little bit of laughter, I think I came up with 10 that are definitely worthy of a mention. Bare in mind that I only added actors who are clearly not singers commercially. So no Jamie Foxx (since he has an album) and obviously no Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith, etc etc.
If I’ve missed any, obviously feel free to bash me and set up some commentary.
Johnny Depp in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Flat Street
The man isn’t just a good actor, his singing in this movie is pretty darned good. This is a very Broadway musical sounding though no?
Val Kilmer in The Doors
Word is Val Kilmer had to have some serious therapy after making this movie because he almost thought he was Jim Morrison. Well, whatever acting methods he used to pull off worked. He was pretty close.
Reese Witherspoon in Walk the Line
Reese was super cute in this movie. While her hair was brown I really can’t hold that against her.
Ewen McGregor in Moulin Rouge
Yes it’s an absolute weird, uppity play-like movie that guys like me can’t stand. And yes, any male who likes this movie has problems. But you can’t deny that McGregor’s got a pretty good voice.
John Travolta in Grease
“I got Chillllllllls!…… It’s electrifying!” I know, this isn’t in the song Grease Lightning but come on, that’s just funny.
Joakim Pheonix in Walk the Line
He wasn’t quite as deep sounding as Mr. Cash but he nailed this role.
Catherine Zeta Jones in Chicago
Easily one of the strongest looks Zeta Jones has ever had. Frankly I never really listened to the song. Did you?
Hugh Jackman in Oklahoma or Happy Feet
This guy is a stud, period. He’s got the ability to play Wolverine and then can belt out notes like no one’s business. Granted Oklahoma was made for TV I had to include Jackman because he’s got a great voice. Yes I can mention Les Miserables but I refuse to.
Marlon Brando in Guys and Dolls
For a studly manly guy, he was pretty good at the sensitive stuff. This was one of the most memorable performances of his career.
Renee Zellweger in Chicago
I’m not a huge fan of Zellweger but I had to include this clip. You have to admit she was good.
Bonus Clip: Mark Wahlberg in Boogie Nights
I just wanted to see John C. Reilly in the background and no I wasn’t serious here. But man this is funny.
Image via Youtube
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