Movies for Music Junkies
I love a good music movie. Of course, musicals have their time and place, but I’m talking about films that tackle the idea of music with killer soundtracks and relatable, music-savvy characters
Almost Famous is the reason I decided to pursue music journalism. In late 2019 I dropped out of college and moved home to start over. It was a lonely and discouraging few months, but then I met my neighbor (now roommate), Emmy. We bonded over our shared love for music, and she insisted that I watch Almost Famous. After that, everything clicked. I wanted to be a music journalist. I needed it, so now I’m doing whatever it takes to get there.
Never underestimate the power of a good film. One day, you might watch a movie you’ve never heard of, and it’ll have such an intense impact on you that it changes the trajectory of your life. But then again, maybe that’s just me.
Without further ado, here are my all-time favorite music movies:
5. Across the Universe
Yes, this one is technically a musical, but I still consider it a music movie. Julie Taymor brilliantly uses The Beatles’ catalog to tell the stories of young people living through the Vietnam era, who come together (no pun intended) over time as they navigate adulthood. In a word, it’s genius.
4. Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist
Michael Cera and Kat Dennings star as two teens whose lives intertwine during their pursuit to find an elusive band playing at a hidden location in New York. It’s hilarious as it is heartwarming to budding musicians and music junkies alike.
3. The Doors
The Doors follows the life of Jim Morrison from The Doors conception to his untimely death, which landed him a spot in the infamous 27 Club. Oliver Stone’s casting is spot-on, and the film gives fans some insight into the tragic train wreck that was Jim.
2. Empire Records
Empire Records is a feel-good film about a group of teens desperately trying to save their beloved music store. It’s an iconic ‘90s movie featuring Liv Tyler and Renee Zellweger at the start of their acting careers and subtly stresses the importance of independent music distributors.
1. Almost Famous
One of my top five favorite movies, Almost Famous tells the story of 15-year-old William, an aspiring music journalist. After a Rolling Stone assignment falls into his lap, William gets to live every young music lover’s dream as he follows fictional band Stillwater on tour. A young Kate Hudson stars as Penny Lane, a veteran band-aid (NOT a groupie) who guides him through the world of psychedelics, unpredictable musicians, and the heartbreak that accompanies young love.