Top 8 Musical Biopics You Can Watch on Netflix

Among the diverse array of film genres, the musical biopic holds a unique position by intertwining the vibrancy of music with the fascinating narratives of real lives. Netflix offers a remarkable selection of these films, each one telling the story of an artist while integrating musical performances that enhance the storytelling experience. This genre often features choreographed numbers and a variety of musical styles, making it a captivating way to explore the lives of iconic figures through their art.

What makes musical biopics particularly fascinating is their diversity. From extravagant and fantastical portrayals, as seen in Elton John’s Rocketman, to more grounded narratives focusing closely on an artist’s journey, these films vary widely in style and tone. The musical expressions within these biographies also differ significantly, showcasing everything from Broadway-style numbers to intimate rock concerts. Here, we highlight several noteworthy musical biopics available on Netflix that lovers of music and compelling stories won’t want to miss.

8 I Am Woman (2019)

The Story of Helen Reddy

A hidden gem among musical biopics is the 2019 film I Am Woman. This film chronicles the life of Australian singer Helen Reddy, who relocates to New York City to chase her dreams in the music industry, only to confront the challenges posed by an unwelcoming music scene. Set beginning in 1966, the narrative traces her career’s highs and lows, highlighting her powerful anthem “I Am Woman,”a significant piece of feminist music history.

While not mainstream, I Am Woman deserves attention for its portrayal of Reddy’s journey, featuring strong performances from Tilda Cobham-Hervey, Evan Peters, and Danielle Macdonald. The film received a respectable 66% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics noting Cobham-Hervey’s captivating performance that maintains strength even amid narrative weaknesses. Overall, this biopic offers an essential look at a crucial yet underappreciated part of musical history.

7 Diana: The Musical (2021)

Princess Diana’s Life Through Music

A noteworthy entry on Netflix is Diana: The Musical, which follows the tumultuous life of Princess Diana from her engagement to Prince Charles at 19 through her high-profile existence. Unlike traditional films, it captures a live stage production, blending authentic storytelling with musical performances, making it a fitting entrant in the musical biopic category.

The film, however, was met with mixed reviews, earning only 12% on Rotten Tomatoes. Yet, this shouldn’t deter viewers; the rarity of filmed musicals adds distinct value to the experience. Diana: The Musical provides insight into her life through an artistic lens that continues to resonate with audiences.

6 The Dirt (2019)

The Rise of Mötley Crüe

For fans of rock music, The Dirt is a must-watch. This 2019 film chronicles the rise of the legendary band Mötley Crüe, showcasing the lives of Tommy Lee, Mick Mars, Vince Neil, and Nikki Sixx during the dynamic 1980s. True to the essence of rock stardom, The Dirt delves into both the exhilarating highs and harrowing lows of the band’s journey.

With a fearless approach to its subject matter, the film reveals untold stories of wild parties and unexpected challenges. Featuring notable performances from Douglas Booth and Machine Gun Kelly, it has recaptured the hearts of fans, yielding a high audience rating of 94% despite a lower critic score of 38% on Rotten Tomatoes. This film stands as a vibrant representation of rock culture and its vast complexities.

5 Maestro (2023)

The Personal Life of Leonard Bernstein

Maestro, directed and starring Bradley Cooper, intimately portrays the life of renowned composer Leonard Bernstein. This film explores his relationship with his wife, Felicia Montealegre, highlighting the struggles he faced with fidelity and substance abuse against the backdrop of his burgeoning fame. Featuring performances from a stellar cast, including Carey Mulligan and Maya Hawke, the film navigates the nuances of Bernstein’s life from the 1940s to the late 1980s.

The movie is particularly impactful despite its limited musical numbers; Bernstein’s journey is conveyed poignantly through moments like his conducting of Mahler’s works, showcasing the profound connection between his personal and professional triumphs. Mulligan delivers a powerful performance, bringing depth to her character. Maestro seeks to celebrate Bernstein’s legacy while acknowledging his flaws.

4 Maria (2024)

The Final Days of Maria Callas

The latest featured musical biopic, Maria, stars Angelina Jolie as the legendary opera singer Maria Callas. The narrative is set during Callas’s final week of life in 1977, portraying her retreat to Paris to reflect on her illustrious career and escape the spotlight. Directed by Pablo Larraín—renowned for his previous works on significant historical figures—Maria offers a unique glimpse into Callas’s life, focusing not on her entirety but a pivotal moment.

This film, while dramatic, incorporates classical opera pieces, enhancing Callas’s legacy as one of history’s greatest vocalists. Through its focused narrative, Maria seeks to illuminate the complexity and emotional weight of her final days.

3 Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)

A True Story Within a Play Within a Movie

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom warrants more recognition for its profound narrative. Released in 2020, the film is based on August Wilson’s play, chronicling the real-life experiences of blues singer Ma Rainey in 1927. The plot centers around Ma and her band as they attempt to record an album amid a tumultuous relationship with their producers, underscoring the deep-seated racial tensions in the music industry during that era.

Boasting a powerhouse cast, including Viola Davis and the late Chadwick Boseman, this film dives into Ma Rainey’s artistic struggle and the systemic challenges she faced. Garnering a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, it promises to leave an indelible impact on viewers, prompting reflection on the blues genre and its historical context.

2 Judy (2019)

A Brief Glimpse into the Life of Judy Garland

Musical biopics often explore iconic figures, and none captures attention quite like Judy Garland. In Judy, released in 2019, the story unfolds decades after her iconic portrayal of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, as Garland navigates a turbulent London performance schedule and her complex personal life. During this period, she reflects on her identity and reconnects with Mickey Deans, her soon-to-be fifth husband.

Renée Zellweger’s transformative performance as Garland is particularly noteworthy; she embodies the essence of the actress with remarkable grace and depth. The film focuses on a lesser-known segment of Garland’s life, demonstrating her significance beyond the beloved role of Dorothy. With an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an Academy Award for Best Actress, Judy is a powerful tribute to a remarkable talent.

1 Tick Tick…Boom! (2021)

A Musical Portrayal of Jonathan Larson

One of the most emotionally engaging musical biopics available on Netflix is Tick, Tick…Boom!. Based on Jonathan Larson’s autobiographical musical, the film captures his experiences as he prepares to turn 30, grappling with career aspirations in the competitive New York theater scene during the 1990s. It skillfully addresses critical social issues, such as the AIDS crisis, woven within the narrative.

This film exemplifies the musical biopic genre, featuring vibrantly choreographed numbers that express Larson’s personal struggles with humor and gravitas. Viewers will find themselves invested in Larson’s journey, rooting for his success while appreciating the artistry and creativity represented throughout the film. Additionally, cameos from Broadway stars add a delightful layer to the experience. This is truly a must-see biopic for anyone with a love for music and storytelling.

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