When it comes to my favorite genre movies to watch, musicals will always hold the top spot. In my opinion, there's seriously nothing better than a combination of great acting, heartwarming moments, and incredible songs. In this day and age, it sometime's seems that the concept of a musical is getting overshadowed, and needs to be brought back into our lives. So here's some musicals that are guaranteed to make you a fan.
1. Les Miserable's
This one's for the world history buff out there. Taking place during the French Revolution, this musical tells the story of Jean Valjean, a prisoner who was taken into custody for stealing a loaf of bread. He eventually breaks his parole, and comes back into contact with the police inspector, Javert. It's an incredible story that delves into many different point of views, while also being packed full of emotion and great music. Did I mention Anne Hathaway is in the movie? Who doesn't love Anne Hathaway?
2. My Fair Lady
Two words: Audrey Hepburn. In this story, a snobby phonetic's professor meets a poor flower girl, and does his best to turn her into a respected lady in society. Audrey is perfect in the movie, especially in the song, "Getting to Know You." I literally danced to that song for like a week. The entire musical is simply enchanting. Did I mention that it's an eight time Oscar winning musical?
3. West Side Story
If you love a good twist on Shakespearean classics, this musical is a great match for you. Inspired by the play, "Romeo and Juliet", this musical tells the story of people from two rival gangs from New York City who fall in love. With a combination of tension, love, and tragedy, this musical is a hit.
4. Mary Poppins
With classic songs such as "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" and "Step in Time" to just name a few, the musical Mary Poppins was a staple in my childhood. This incredible story of a magical nanny has captured the hearts of so many people, not to mention Julie Andrews is perfect in every single way possible.
5. Hamilton
While this is a very new musical, and the average person probably won't have access to it for a while, we need to keep our eye on this one. Hamilton is based on the 2004 Biography of Alexander Hamilton, and has already become a huge phenomenon. Everyone from Beyonce, to Julia Roberts, to even Jimmy Fallon has loved Hamilton, so if they love it, you're bound to love it too. The entire soundtrack is on Spotify so definitely check that out. Did I mention the musical is basically rap? Seriously how cool is that.
6. Singin' in the Rain
A classic musical full of incredible talent. It's so great in fact, that it's considered a masterpiece of the classical Hollywood musical. Gene Kelly is a star and a complete legend, and so is Debbie Reynolds and Donald O'Connor. You may also recognize Debbie as Aggie Cromwell in the Disney movie Halloweentown. The songs "Singin' in the Rain" and "Good morning" are hits that we still hear today. Very heartwarming and full of talented dancing and music.
7. A Chorus Line
If you ever feel the desire to dance with a top hat, then this musical is for you. A Chorus Line tells the story of dancing hopefuls auditioning in front of a very demanding director. Fun fact, the woman that plays Miss Darbus in High School Musical is also in A Chorus Line. So if you enjoy top hats, 80's style dancing, and strong ballads like the song "What I Did For Love", this one's for you.
8. Wicked
To witness this great musical, all you gotta do is follow the yellow brick road. An alternate telling of The Wizard of Oz, Wicked is told from the witches' point of view and takes place before and after Dorothy's arrival in Oz. With songs like "Popular" and "Defying Gravity" you'll be jamming to this musical in no time.
9. The Music Man
This 1962 musical is about to march it's way into your hearts. The Music Man tells the story of Harold Hill, who pretends to be a boy's band leader to con the people of Iowa. However, his plan changes once he falls in love with the town librarian. Side note, do not watch the remake that was made in 2003, definitely stick to the old school version.
10. Funny Girl
Barbra Streisand is my inspiration. It is this very musical that stole my heart and made me completely fall in love with her voice. The musical tells the story of Fanny Brice, a girl with unconventional beauty who yearns to make it on the big stage. You can't help but fall in love with Barbra's character through her humor, talent, and dedication. The musical is also inspiring to young girls who aren't comfortable with how they look. Instead of letting her imperfections hold her back, Fanny perseveres and chases her dreams. If you've ever seen the TV show Glee, Rachel Berry sings practically every song from this musical. Barbra Streisand is also Lea Michele's role model and icon. A must watch.
11. Phantom of the Opera
Last but certainly not least, is the famous musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber. The obsession I have with this musical is unhealthy, and watching it for the first time seriously changed my life. I've watched it more times than I care to admit and the CD is on repeat in my car. I swear it's incredible. There's a ton of versions but my personal favorite is the 25th Anniversary Edition with Ramin Karimloo as the phantom. It tells the story of a young lady named Christine who captures the attention of a musical genius - The Phantom - that lives beneath the Opera Popular. I can't stress enough how important it is that you watch it.
