Those who have been reading for awhile will know my favourite genre of music is rock, and that I sometimes talk about movies here. Sometimes the lines between these two gets blurred, and you end up with these stellar films. Here’s what are in my opinion, the top five rock musical movies

Best Rock Musical Movies

1. Bohemian Rhapsody

Bohemian Rhapsody is the most recent release on this list. The biopic tells of Queen’s story from Freddie Mercury’s point of view, from their humble college band days to their legendary Live Aid set. Freddie was so much larger than life that no one could ever fully capture his character but Rami Malik came pretty damn close. As it’s a film it’s not 100% factually accurate but it’s still enjoyable for Queen fans and those not very familiar with them.

Music: 10/10, in my opinion you can’t get better than over two-hours of Queen.

2. The Runaways

Based on Cherie Currie’s autobiography Neon Angel: a memoir of a Runaway. The movie documents the rise and fall of the 70’s all-girl teenage rock band.

The movie is bit lighter than the book though as they had a rough career and were taken advantage of. Kristin Stewart and Dakoka Fanning give pleasantly surprising performances as Joan Jett and Cherie Currie. I would have preferred if they used the original music, instead of using covers of Dakota singing.

Music: 7/10 – I would have given a higher score if the original tracks were used

3. Tenacious D And The Pick Of Destiny

Tenacious D is unique as it’s not a biopic but rather a comical adventure starring Tenacious D. It tells of a fictitious journey to becoming the best band in the world. If you’ve dreamt of being in the greatest band in the world, then you’ll find JB (Jack Black) endearing. It’s like a caricature of wannabe rockstars.

Music: 7/10 – light, funny, and Dave Grohl was a wonderful cameo.

4. Labyrinth

The film starring David Bowie isn’t about him as a musician but is one of his best roles as an actor.

The cult classic follows Sarah as she tries to get her baby brother back from the Goblin King.

Bowie was very much involved in the music for the film so it’s just as weird and wonderful as he was. It’s not without it’s flaws; the Goblin King’s obsession with a very young Sarah is uncomfortable, as is his crotch bulge.

Music: 8/10 – Within You and Underground became staple Bowie songs

5. The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Rocky Horror isn’t about a band. Although Tim Curry is the star of this cult classic, Meat Loaf deserves some recognition for his role. Albeit a short one.

The first time I saw this was at an outdoor screening so there was people in costume doing the Time Warp in sync with the movie so it was the best and most fitting way to watch Rocky Horror. Hot Patooie is by far one of the best songs in the film, but doesn’t get the attention Time Warp does. This movie is also great to rewatch for Halloween.

A couple, Brad & Janet, seek help during a storm after getting a flat tire. They come across Dr. Frank-N-Further’s mansion and lose their innocence in a musical series of events.

Music: 9/10

6. School Of Rock

School of Rock didn’t make the top five, because Jack Black featured in Tenacious D, but School of Rock has been a favourite since childhood. Whenever a teacher in school was out sick, we always hoped someone like him would show up and teach us music but were always disappointed.

After getting kicked out of his band, Dewey Finn needs a job. He poses as his best friend and takes a teaching job at a private elementary school where he introduces the kids to rock n’ roll and enters them in a battle of the bands.

What are your favourite rock musical movies? You might also be interested in these books penned by rock stars.