Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just an ardent music enthusiast, there’s something enchanting about the intersection of music and cinema. Music has the incredible power to transcend boundaries and evoke deep emotions within us, as do movies.
In this article, we’ll take you on a melodious cinematic journey, showcasing music movies that not only entertain but also inspire you to rock out.
Some of the Best Music Movies to Delight and Inspire:
1. ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ (1975)
A scene from “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” 1975. (Photo: Twentieth Century Fox).
What better way to start off the lineup than with this ’70s cult classic? If you’ve not yet seen this gem then you are missing out. Not only was this film ahead of its time with a cast of queer, sexually liberated, eccentrics but it has one of the most entertaining musical numbers in film history—the Time Warp! If you like mystery, drama, and a touch of the bizarre with all the sequins you can handle, then this is definitely one music film you can’t miss out on.
2. ‘The School of Rock’ (2003)
Jack Black in “School of Rock.” (Photo: Photo by Andrew Schwartz – © 2003 Paramount Pictures).
Jack Black fans raved about this film in the early aughts with plenty of quotable lines and music riffs to inspire. After Jack Black’s character, Dewey gets the boot from his rock band just before ‘Battle of the Bands,’ he has to get creative about coming up with rent money, which leads him to a substitute teaching position at a school for privileged children.
The kids aren’t too fond of his teaching methods, as he has zero experience, and he’s not too fond of dealing with snobby kids all day. But then he gets an idea to teach the kids how to rock out so they can win ‘Battle of the Bands,’ and along the way, he finds he actually enjoys teaching the students while also helping some of them find their true calling—music.
3. ‘The Runaways’ (2010)
Kirsten Stewart and Dakota Fanning in “The Runaways.” (Photo: River Road Entertainment).
“The Runaways” is a biopic about the all-female band of the same name from the 70s. Starring Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning, this film explodes with female empowerment, youth, and of course—sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll. The film does a good job of capturing the energy of that era of music while also highlighting some of the ugliness that seemed to follow rock stars, such as hedonism and drug abuse. Still, at the end of the day, it’s an exciting film that is sure to inspire you to pick up your own guitar and see where it might take you.
4. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ (2018)
A scene from “Bohemian Rhapsody.” (Photo: Twentieth Century Fox).
We seem to have a running theme, as the next film on our list is also set in the 70s. “Bohemian Rhapsody” explores the formation of the cult famous British rock band, Queen and their journey to fame. As with “The Runaways,” this film features the good and the bad that came with becoming a famous musician in that era. Lots of drugs, sex, and partying, but also the thrill that comes from doing what you love and performing on a stage in front of audiences who also love what you do.
5. ‘Almost Famous’ (2000)
A scene from “Almost Famous.” (Photo: Dreamworks Pictures).
“Almost Famous” is unique in that it shows things more from the perspective of the fans of rock bands. Though this film also shows the darker side of musicians and their groupies in the ’70s, what you ultimately end up with is a coming-of-age drama. This movie does an excellent job of highlighting the important role rock music played in the lives of youths and how it helped them navigate one of the most confusing stages of their lives. What is more inspirational than that?
6. ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ (1984)
A scene from “This is Spinal Tap.” (Photo: Spinal Tap Prod.).
Taking it back to the ’80s, “This is Spinal Tap” takes a different spin by satirizing rockers and what happens to them when they age and are no longer relevant. The film is about a fictional documentary filmmaker, Marty DiBergi, as he follows his favorite rock group, Spinal Tap, during their comeback attempt. In the end, while audience members are meant to laugh at the aging rockers, it also manages to make you feel affection for them as well, making it both a satire and an inspiring dramatic film.
The Power of Music
Music really is a powerful thing, and there is a reason why there are so many films made about music and musicians. Not only are these movies inspiring and electrifying, but music also has the power to affect you on both a physical and mental level. In fact, medical studies have shown that listening to music and playing an instrument can have a positive impact on your mental and physical health.
Playing music can strengthen the mind by improving the brain’s neuroplasticity. It has also been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. When learning a new instrument or how to read music, you can also improve your reading and listening skills. And interestingly enough, playing an instrument (depending on what kind) can also improve oral, skin, and bone health.
Feeling Inspired? Create a Jam Space of Your Own to Start Your Music Journey
If watching some of the above films and learning about how music can improve your body and your mind has inspired you, then why not pick up an instrument and become the next greatest rock star? And even if fame is not what you seek, there are many benefits to be gained from learning to play an instrument.
If you are seriously interested in your musical pursuits, however, your neighbors, family, or roommates might thank you if you can find a way to play without disturbing their peace. In other words, make yourself your very own sound-proof studio so you can rock away without having the dogs howling.
Music has the incredible power to transcend boundaries and evoke deep emotions within us, as do movies.”
We recommend a basement or garage if you have one. Surprisingly, it’s not that difficult to soundproof a garage if you’ve got a little time and some money to spare. In truth, you can easily use some cheap foam and blankets and hang them around the space if you’re on a tight budget, but you can find some fairly affordable sound-dampening materials and insulation online as well.
Let Music and Instruments Guide You
The key is to cover as many parts of the garage as you can, including the garage door, ceilings, walls, and even the floors. If you have any windows or doors in the garage, you can cover them with soundproofing materials or use soundproofing or acoustic tape to seal off the edges and gaps. Blackout curtains will also work nicely. Once you’re done, you could even create a home cinema in your garage, too, that way you can play music and watch your favorite films in the same space.
As many great films show us, playing music can be an empowering and life-changing experience. Don’t be afraid to pick up an instrument yourself and see where it takes you.
