As a seasoned movie enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the adrenaline rush of a summer action blockbuster. From the Harrison Ford adventures of the 80s and 90s to the Marvel movies that grace our screens every summer, there’s nothing like a thrilling chase and a few massive explosions to remind us why we love movies so much. However, I must admit that I also have a soft spot for musicals. They offer a completely different vibe, but just like those big explosions, a grand musical number with the entire cast singing and dancing captivates us and reminds us why we adore movies.
With a plethora of musicals making their way to the big (or small, depending on your streaming preference) screen soon, such as “Dear Evan Hansen,” Steven Spielberg’s take on “West Side Story,” and “Matilda,” it’s the perfect time to revisit some of the best movie musicals available for streaming. So, without further ado, here are my top 10 movie musicals you can stream right now.
1. In the Heights: A Toe-Tapping Triumph
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s first musical, which he wrote in college, made its way to the big screen and HBO Max in June. It was one of the first “you-HAVE-to-see-this-in-theaters” movies since the lockdown prevented us all from going to theaters and halted movie production. From the very beginning, it gets you toe-tapping with a massive musical number and doesn’t stop until the end. Insider tip: make sure you watch through the credits for a hilarious post-credits scene that you’ll appreciate, especially if you’re a “Hamilton” fan.
Where to stream: “In the Heights” is on HBO Max.
2. Dreamgirls: A Showstopping Spectacle
This 2006 movie musical about a Detroit black vocal trio in the 1960s called The Dreamettes won Jennifer Hudson an Academy Award for her role as Effie White. Beyoncé and Anika Noni Rose round out the amazing singing group. The movie has some showstopping numbers, of course (how could you not with those three?), and some intense acting as well.
Where to watch “Dreamgirls”: You can stream the movie on HBO Max, or rent it from Amazon, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu, AppleTV, or DirecTV.
3. Singin’ in the Rain: A Timeless Classic
Digging deep into the archives, “Singin’ in the Rain” is a classic from 1952, with a great storyline, a lot of humor, and Gene Kelly (with Princess Leia’s mom!). There are so many iconic scenes that everyone who loves movie musicals should see this one at least once. It’s also a great pick for family movie night.
Where to stream: You can stream “Singin’ in the Rain” on HBO Max or rent it from Amazon, Google Play, YouTube, Vudu, AppleTV, or DirecTV.
4. Hamilton: A Revolutionary Experience
Yes, Lin-Manuel Miranda gets two mentions on this list. “Hamilton” wasn’t filmed like most movies but was shot as a stage production complete with an audience. You feel more like you’re watching the show in the theater than watching a movie. The audience reactions and the cast’s acting in a theater make this a unique experience and it’s definitely one to watch.
Where to stream “Hamilton”: You can stream this movie on Disney +.
5. Little Shop of Horrors: A Horror Comedy Rock Extravaganza
Steve Martin! Bill Murray! Man-eating plants! This 1986 movie starring those two, plus Rick Moranis as Seymour, is a “horror comedy rock musical.” Naturally. Everyone in this movie is over-the-top, plenty of people die (and – spoiler alert – are eaten by the plant), and it’s generally ridiculous, goofy fun. Interestingly, the movie ending was redone after screening audiences didn’t like the bleak way the musical actually wraps up.
Where to stream: You can stream the movie on HBO Max, or rent it on Google Play, iTunes, Vudu, or Amazon.
6. The Prom: A Heartfelt Celebration of Love
“The Prom” is based on the true story of a lesbian teen in Indiana who wanted to bring her girlfriend to prom but wasn’t allowed. The movie musical version features Hollywood stars Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, James Corden, and Andrew Rannells who play washed-up actors that decide they’re heading to Indiana to gain some publicity and help the teen out. It’s got some great show-stoppers, but the best is “Love Thy Neighbor,” about halfway through.
Where to watch: “The Prom” is streaming on Netflix.
7. West Side Story: A Timeless Tale of Love and Rivalry
While you’re waiting for the new movie to come out, watch the original from 1961. If you’re not familiar with the plot, it’s a take on Romeo & Juliet, with the two lovebirds being played by characters who are involved with rival gangs in New York. Rita Moreno kills it as Anita and won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role.
Where to stream: You can rent or buy the movie on iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Google Play, and Vudu.
8. The Greatest Showman: A Spectacular Circus of Emotions
“The Greatest Showman” is one of the few musicals that began as a movie and then went to Broadway, instead of the other way around. It’s got everything a big, blockbuster musical needs – lots of choreography, big numbers featuring tons of people, nice loud anthems you can’t help singing afterward. In short, a whole lot of fun.
Where to stream: The movie is streaming on Disney +.
9. The Muppets: A Joyful Musical Adventure
Jason Segel co-wrote and starred (along with Kermit, Fozzie, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the gang) in this Muppet movie that’s just. So. Happy. There are also plenty of songs scattered throughout, which we think qualifies it as a musical. “Man or a Muppet” is the heartfelt ballad, and there are big numbers with plenty of singing and dancing both to kick off the movie and for the big finale at the end.
Where to watch: You can stream “The Muppets” on Disney + and on Netflix until August 31.
10. Moulin Rouge!: A Tragic Love Story Amidst Glitz and Glamour
The tragic love story of Christian and Satine at the Moulin Rouge is another musical that was a movie first, then a hit Broadway show. There’s plenty of singing and dancing in the movie (it is set in a cabaret, after all). You’ll recognize several of the songs in the movie that are given a new twist. The glitz, the costumes, and the dancing all make the movie a whole lot of fun, but have the hankies nearby for the end.
Where to watch: You can stream Moulin Rouge! on Amazon Prime, iTunes, Vudu, YouTube, and Google Play.
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