Winning fans around the world, Wicked definitely made its mark in 2025. The musical film starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba captivated audiences by combining a well-known story with the power of pop culture.
If Wicked hooked you with its music and choreography, here are some other can’t-miss films in the genre.
Grease
In a true case of opposites attract, the 1978 film became one of the biggest hits of its genre, earning an Oscar nomination (Best Original Song for “Hopelessly Devoted to You”).
The plot follows Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John) and Danny Zuko (John Travolta), who enjoy a summer romance until they discover they attend the same school — a scenario that exposes the differences between their worlds and puts their relationship to the test.
Mamma Mia!
No one talks about musicals without mentioning Mamma Mia! Released in 2008 and inspired by the Broadway show, the film became a global success by using ABBA‘smusical repertoire to tell a lighthearted and touching story. The narrative follows Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), who, about to get married, tries to find out who her father is and brings together three past loves of Donna (Meryl Streep), her mother. With breathtaking landscapes of Greece, a festive atmosphere, and unforgettable songs, the film has established itself as a favorite among the public.
Hairspray
Among the Broadway-to-film adaptations, the 2007 version of Hairspray is the one that most embraces cinematic language without losing the contagious energy of the stage. With a star-studded cast including John Travolta, Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer and Christopher Walken, the film tackles themes such as racism, inclusion and beauty standards in a light and humorous way.
The story follows Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky), a teenager who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show and ends up becoming an important voice for racial integration on the program.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes
Immortalized by “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”, performed by the iconic Marilyn Monroe, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) is a classic that combines humour, charm and memorable musical numbers. The plot follows showgirls Dorothy Shaw (Jane Russell) and Lorelei Lee (Marilyn Monroe) on a trip to Paris, where they get involved in romance, misunderstandings and lots of fun.
The Greatest Showman
In The Greatest Showman, the show begins even before the curtains open. The production delivers elaborate performances and grandiose musical numbers – something expected in a story set in a circus, but executed with above-average brilliance. The film won the 2018 Golden Globe for Best Original Song with “This Is Me”, performed by Keala Settle.
Inspired by the story of businessman P.T. Barnum, known for creating one of the greatest variety shows of the 19th century, the film follows Barnum’s (Hugh Jackman) rise from his humble origins to the creation of a show that brings together people marginalized by society, turning them into spectacular attractions.
West Side Story
A ten-time Oscar winner, West Side Story (1961) established itself as one of cinema’s greatest musicals by adapting the modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet for the screen. The movie follows the forbidden romance between Tony (Richard Beymer) and Maria (Natalie Wood), young people linked to rival gangs on the streets of New York. The production established itself as an aesthetic and narrative reference, influencing generations of musicals and remaining one of the pillars of the genre.
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The article above was edited by Maria Clara Polcan.
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