To be quite honest, the best way to spend a snow day is to pop a bunch of popcorn, snuggle up in comfy pajamas and blankets, and binge watch as many musicals as possible. Here is my definitive list of the ten best movie musicals to binge watch on your next day off! Singing along optional.
10. Grease
Olivia Newton John and John Travolta may not look like high schoolers in this classic movie musical, but you can't deny that this movie is a really fun flick. Sure, there are some questionable themes throughout the plot, but it's still enjoyable and makes you want to get up and boogie during "Greased Lightning."
But seriously girls, don't change yourself for a man. No boy is worth that much.
9. Mary Poppins
It's undeniable, Julie Andrews is the queen of musical theatre. She absolutely shines in (arguable) her best role as the practically perfect in every way Mary Poppins. Plus, this movie gets major points for nostalgia since most of us grew up watching Mary and Bert sing "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." Bonus points if you can spell it without cheating!
8. Sweeney Todd
This one's a little on the darker side (okay, maybe very much on the darker side), but nevertheless, Tim Burton's take on Sondheim's murderous classic is incredible. Johnny Depp blows everyone away with his performance as the vengeful Sweeney, while Helena Bonham Carter is just as weirdly wonderful as always. RIP Alan Rickman.
7. Hairspray (2007)
There are plenty of film adaptations of this upbeat musical, but the best one by far is the 2007 movie, and not just because Zac Efron plays teenage heartthrob Link Larkin (although that is a perk). The dancing, choreographed by Adam Shankman, is partly why this version is my favorite, but the cast is also incredible with big names like Queen Latifah, Michelle Pfeiffer, John Travolta, Amanda Bynes, James Marsden... I could go on. You really can't stop the beat with this one.
6. The Phantom Of The Opera
Like with Hairspray, there are a million different versions of this opera. However, the best (and most meme-worthy) version is the 25th Anniversary Concert performance. The cast is amazing, the singing sublime, and the acting supplies just enough hilarious moments accidentally thrown into the seriousness to keep even the most distracted viewer on their toes.
5. Chicago
Another merrily murderous movie, but this time featuring Fosse choreography and sassy, slightly crazy, women. This film is the best to watch with a group of girlfriends while singing along and thinking about how you may double or triple text, but at least you don't kill your boyfriends.
4. Rent
Warning: only watch this one if you're prepared to go through an intense emotional roller coaster. You'll be happy, you'll get frustrated, you'll bawl your eyes out. No spoilers, but this group of friends will take your heart, claim a spot, and then tear you to shreds. In the best way of course. Plus, you'll learn how to measure a year in love.
3. The Last Five Years
Okay, for real though, do not watch this one if you're not prepared for the ultimate crying session. Jamie and Cathy's whirlwind relationship and it's ups and downs makes this musical absolutely beautiful, but will also tear you to pieces. Enjoyed best with a group of girlfriends, a bottle of wine, and lots and lots of tissues. Goodbye until tomorrow!
2. Beauty and the Beast
Yes, I know it's animated. But come on, this is easily one of the best musicals of all time. Besides, you have to watch the original Disney classic before the live-action one releases in March!
1. Singin' In The Rain
If you only have time to watch one movie musical during your snowday, I recommend this classic. Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, and Debbie Reynolds (may she rest in peace) star in this classic, the epitome of musical theatre. The dancing is incredible, and you'll know some of the songs. The humor has also transcended the times, making this film a legitimate film classic. Plus, it's family friendly and people of all ages will enjoy the plot about creating one of the first "talking pictures."
