The thunder is rolling, and your plans are officially ruined for the afternoon. Now what? You eventually grab your Snuggie, cup of coffee, and trusty remote to prepare for a day of binge-watching. But, instead of flipping to Netflix, you actually decide to give cable channels a chance, and you notice that movie musicals are everywhere. Which one should you choose? Well, here are 10 that you should highly consider. Keep in mind that I have overlooked many of the well-known options. "West Side Story," "Singing in the Rain," and "The Sound of Music" snobs will have to wait for my next article. The 10 musicals mentioned below are culturally important but often shoved aside by popular culture. Honestly, this list could be endless, but I had to narrow it down. (Though, I did include a few of my favorites along the way.) Open your mind and give every musical a chance. You may be pleasantly surprised!

1. "1776" (1972)

Yes, prior to the "Hamilton" craze, there already was a Tony Award-winning musical detailing the birth of America. The facts are accurate, but I doubt that John Adams and Benjamin Franklin broke out into song when the Declaration of Independence was signed. However, as a musical, American history becomes an appropriate setting. From songs like "He Plays the Violin" to "Molasses to Rum," audiences get a refreshing history lesson while enjoying amazing theatrical staging. Plus, millennials will enjoy Mr. Feeny's song-and-dance skills.

2. "Easter Parade" (1948)

Every film that Judy Garland touches is golden, and Fred Astaire is one of the greatest dancers in the history of American performance. Period. Watch it. You could learn a few things.

3. "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" (1954)

If you are in the mood for a well-rounded film, "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" is the perfect choice. Howard Keel, the reigning king of the MGM film musical, gives a flawless performance (as always), and the dance numbers compliment the musical numbers in a manner that often sags in many films. Plus, the song "Sobbin' Women" is hilarious. Ultimately, the musical is 1 hour and 45 minutes of pure enjoyment.

4. "Victor/Victoria" (1982)

Who doesn't love a film where Mary Poppins plays a woman, playing a gay man, playing a drag queen? The story line may seem a bit far-fetched, but it works. Songs like "Le Jazz Hot" and "Gay Paree" add a flair of truth and humor to very serious topics. Also, if not for any other reason, you should watch this film to pay homage to Julie Andrews's singing voice. While portraying this role during a Broadway run, she was forced to undergo the throat procedure that later ruined her vocal chords. She never sang in a film again. Please watch. Andrews deserves respect for a job well done.

5. "Annie Get Your Gun" (1950)

As a born and bred Kentuckian, I do take offense to Betty Hutton's attempt at a country accent, BUT this is a solid film musical. The story of Annie Oakley is one that has been told and retold in many different mediums. However, this version is by far the best. The legendary song "There's No Business Like Show Business" was born on the set of this film, and the legendary lyricist and composer Irving Berlin poured his talent into another flawless score. The costuming displays the expected MGM quality and flair, and Howard Keel (yet again) bellows throughout another flawless performance. For a fan of Country/Western films, this is the perfect choice for you.

6. "My Fair Lady" (1964)

If you select this musical purely to hear the star of "Breakfast at Tiffany's" sing, you will be gravely disappointed. In a casting misstep (solely my opinion), directors overlooked Julie Andrews for Audrey Hepburn but soon realized that Hepburn couldn't perform the Lerner and Leowe score. You have to love the power and beauty of voice-dubbing. However, you must watch this piece for Rex Harrison's performance as Professor Henry Higgins. This Oscar-winning portrayal carries the show and leads to so many wonderfully-sarcastic moments. Shaw's "Pygmalion" is given new life in this legendary musical.

7. "Chicago" (2002)

Ah, the refreshing life story of two murderesses in 1920s Chicago. Though this was a highly-publicized and acclaimed musical in 2002, I feel that it has been denied the respect that it deserves in recent years. In my opinion, it's often forgotten altogether. Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger give performances of a lifetime, and Queen Latifah adds a special ingredient into the film. Bob Fosse would definitely approve of the production. While growing up, "Cell Block Tango" was often a song that everyone in my theatre group sang. Yet, it has slowly disappeared. Bring it back, people! Bring it back!

8. "Annie" (1982)

I will not rant. I will not rant. I will not rant. Watch the 1982 version and ONLY the 1982 version. Carol Burnett, Albert Finney, and Tim Curry are fantastic. If you happen to stumble upon the other two versions and are curious, at least watch the 1982 version first. However, try your best to avoid those versions. I have restrained myself. You're welcome.

9. "White Christmas" (1954)

This musical has a special place in my heart, and it is easily my favorite movie musical. Many families have a tradition of watching this musical every Christmas, but I could watch it anytime of the year. Vera-Ellen's dancing, Crosby's acting, Kaye's joking, and Clooney's singing create a perfect picture. It's truly a family film. There's nothing else that I can say that wouldn't count as rambling. Just a note, though. Yes, Rosemary Clooney is related to George Clooney. She is his aunt and is also the one with the talent in the family. *Steps off of soap box.* There's a museum dedicated to this musical and Rosemary Clooney's career in Augusta, Kentucky. Go for a visit and see the original costumes! The musical is played on a 24-hour loop. Just saying.

10. "The Music Man" (1962)

To round out the list, I have included Meredith Wilson's masterpiece. If you love Iowa, con-men, marching bands, and pool, this is the musical for you. The fast-paced tunes and lyrics could easily be the first attempt at musical theatre rap. (See what I did there? I'm looking at you "Hamilton.") Robert Preston became an immediate musical legend after completing his tenure as Professor Harold Hill, and no actor has been able to do the role justice since, even Matthew Broderick.

When you're scrolling through your guide completely unsure of what to watch, I hope that this list can help narrow your choices. If not, I hope that you at least learned something along the way. Take a trip to Broadway without leaving your couch. It's well worth it!