Warm up your pipes and practice your scales: this list of the top 10 best musical movies to watch right now will have you singing, dancing and tapping your toes in no time. From timeless classics to modern showstoppers, these films deliver unforgettable performances, catchy tunes and stories that will move your heart and lift your spirits.
Keep an eye on this list as it is updated with the latest and greatest musical movies, so you can be sure you’re in the loop. From Grease to Jersey Boys, this list will help musical lovers stay up to date on the most popular musical movies available.
Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
From musicals to singing competitions and so much more, get it all on DIRECTV.
TOP 10 MUSICAL MOVIES TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending musical movies that TV-watchers are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘Grease’
↑ 7 vs. Prior Week
Immerse yourself in the effervescent world of Grease (1978), the quintessential high school musical that has stood the test of time. Set in the mid-1950s, it’s a high-voltage journey brimming with exciting friendships, teen romances and adventures. Watch as the wholesome exchange student Sandy (Olivia Newton-John) and the bad-boy Danny (John Travolta) share a summer romance that’s as enchanting as it is transformative. Amidst youthful rebellion and bobbing dance numbers, the question remains: Will their relationship survive the capricious boundaries of high school cliques and the eventual clash of their contrasting personas? Dive in to find out!
2. ‘The Greatest Showman’
↑ 8 vs. Prior Week
Bringing the 19th century fireworks of entertainment to life on the screen, The Greatest Showman (2017) brings audiences into the flamboyant world of P.T Barnum. Set in the early 1800s, the richly imaginative dreamer Barnum, portrayed by the charismatic Hugh Jackman, transforms his humble beginnings into the creation of a magnificent spectacle – the Barnum & Bailey circus. The movie showcases heart-throbbing acrobatics, unique performers, and unforgettable musical numbers – encapsulating Barnum’s rise from the ground to the sparkling heights of the greatest show on Earth. The Greatest Showman is a testament to the inception of the show business, an intoxicating exuberance of a man who turned the impossible into a reality.
3. ‘ Dreamgirls’
↑ 16 vs. Prior Week
Immerse yourself in the vibrant and cutthroat world of 1960s music industry with the 2006 film, Dreamgirls. Watch the decadent rise of the captivating trio, the Dreamettes, helmed by Deena (Beyoncé Knowles), Effie (Jennifer Hudson) and Lorrell (Anika Noni Rose). But their dreams of stardom are tested when an opportunistic manager, Curtis Taylor Jr. (Jamie Foxx), sets his sights on them, pushing them from backup singers for the stunning national star (Eddie Murphy), into the glaring spotlight of fame. However, as they ascend the ladder of success, they soon learn the painful price of stardom, leading to an emotional musical drama that is as unforgettable as the songs it celebrates.
4. ‘ Bathing Beauty’
↑ 100 vs. Prior Week
Dive into the delightful nostalgia of the 1940s with Bathing Beauty, a comedic spectacle that proves nothing can drown high spirits. Starring Red Skelton as a lovesick songwriter, he follows his estranged wife to an all-girls school where she works as a swimming instructor. With quick wit and slapstick humor, Skelton rides a tide of hilarity in a desperate bid to win back his love. Orchestrated by legendary director George Sidney, Bathing Beauty also stars Esther Williams whose aqua ballet sequences add an enchanting layer to this splashy cinematic treat.
5. ‘ Cabin in the Sky’
↑ 51 vs. Prior Week
Venture back to the magic of 1943 cinema with the dreamy musical Cabin in the Sky. With legendary performances from renowned icons like Ethel Waters and Eddie ‘Rochester’ Anderson, this bold, delightful tale weaves together a complex narrative of morality and love. Little Joe Jackson, a compulsive gambler portrayed passionately by Anderson, is betwixt between the forces of good and evil fighting for his soul after a bout of cheating leads to disastrous consequences. With fiery performances, captivating songs, and a thought-provoking plot – Cabin in the Sky ticks all the boxes of a timeless classic.
6. ‘ Sparkle’
↑ 22 vs. Prior Week
Immerse yourself in the soulful era of 1968, where girl groups and the captivating Motown sound were hitting their crescendo in Sparkle. Sisters Delores (Dee), Tammy (Sister) and the eponymous Sparkle are fervent to take Detroit by storm, in spite of their mother’s apprehension, played by the late Whitney Houston. Derek Luke, their relentless manager, sees more than just talent; he sees a launching pad for a new musical empire, even if it means leveraging the sisters’ success and exploiting his fervent feelings for Sparkle. This evocative film released in 2012 bears testament to the journey of dreams, love and the treacherous road to stardom.
7. ‘ Dames’
↑ 119 vs. Prior Week
Dames is a classic musical comedy that captures the glitz and charm of 1930s Broadway. The film follows a young songwriter who tries to stage a musical revue with help from a wealthy relative, despite the objections of a scandal-fearing family member. Featuring dazzling choreography, witty dialogue, and iconic musical numbers like “I Only Have Eyes for You,” Dames stands out as a quintessential example of Depression-era escapist entertainment.
8. ‘ On an Island With You’
↑ 58 vs. Prior Week
Transport yourself to the tropical paradise of a Pacific island with the delightful 1948 musical, On an Island With You. This heartwarming classic stars beloved actress Esther Williams as a popular movie star filming on location alongside co-star Peter Lawford. A local military officer, played by Ricardo Montalban, complicates their professional relationship and love story as he attempts to win Williams’ heart. Packed with brilliant performances and colorful spectacle, the film captures the spirit of the era, and adds a dash of romance and comedy that promises to keep viewers thoroughly entertained. Williams’ prowess as a swimmer is another captivating highlight of the film. Get ready to be drawn into this whimsical love triangle set amidst the scenic beauty of the enchanting island.
9. ‘ Fiddler on the Roof’
↓ 6 vs. Prior Week
Immerse yourself in the world of Fiddler on the Roof (1971), an acclaimed screen adaptation of a renowned international stage music sensation. This multi-layered narrative follows the life of Tevye, masterfully brought to life by Topol. Tevye is a humble milkman whose resilience, love, and faith arm him against the oppressions of turn-of-the-century czarist Russia.
The film’s elaborate production design transports you to the very heart of a bygone era, while the plot’s poignant themes resonate with a timeless universality that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. This is a motion picture that remains as relevant today as it was on its release, making it a must-watch for all film enthusiasts.
10. ‘ Jersey Boys’
↑ 1 vs. Prior Week
Experience the nostalgic rhythm of the 1960s in Jersey Boys. John Lloyd Young shines as Frankie Valli, one of four gritty lads from New Jersey who form the iconic Four Seasons with Bob Gaudio (played by Erich Bergen), Nick Massi (Michael Lomenda), and Tommy DeVito (Vincent Piazza). Their timeless hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Walk Like a Man” rocket them to stardom, but the glow of the spotlight casts long shadows. As their success soars, personal and professional issues threaten to shatter their harmony, propelling the film into a captivating exploration of music, fame and the ties that bind.
And there you have it: the top 10 musical movies to watch at home. Stay tuned for updates to come, so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
For those who aren’t DIRECTV customers, make the switch today! Get all the best channels, shows, movies and more. And with four unique packages, there’s something for everyone.
And for even more insight into the top shows and movies to watch right now, check out these other lists:
- Top 20 Movies to Stream Right Now
- 20 Most Binge-Worthy TV Shows to Watch Right Now
- 10 Best Limited Series to Watch
- Top 10 Best Drama TV Shows to Watch Right Now
- Top 10 Singing Shows to Sing Along with at Home
- The Most Popular Shows on The CW to Stream
- Romantic TV Shows to Love Now
- Top 10 Historical Period Dramas to Binge Today
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular musical movies?
Pitch Perfect, High School Musical, Sister Act, and The Sound of Music are some of the most popular musical movies.
Which movie musicals have won the most awards?
West Side Story, Sound of Music, Chicago, La La Land, The Color Purple.
DIRECTV Insider brings you our views on what’s happening in streaming, t.v., movies and sports. Companies and persons mentioned are not necessarily associated with and do not necessarily endorse DIRECTV. We will disclose sponsored content on our site when we show it to you, and some of the links on the site may be ads or affiliate links which means DIRECTV may earn compensation from your purchases.
