The Ultimate List: The Best Movie Musicals of the Past 20 Years

Music and dancing have been integral to the cinematic experience for decades. From grand spectacles to poignant performances, the film industry has produced numerous outstanding musicals over the past two decades. In this article, we explore the most beloved and critically acclaimed movie musicals of recent history, based on their cultural impact, critical reception, and audience ratings.

1. Dancer in the Dark (2000) - Lars von Trier

“Dancer in the Dark” is a powerful and surreal film that combines elements of musicals with a stark, realist narrative. Directed by Lars von Trier, this 2000 masterpiece tells the story of Selma, a woman who sings to express her inner turmoil. The film’s unique blend of visual poetry and emotional intensity has made it a beloved cult classic among movie enthusiasts. It has particularly resonated with viewers who appreciate its deeply human and at times challenging storyline.

2. Moulin Rouge! (2001) - Baz Luhrmann

Moulin Rouge! is a vibrant and flamboyant musical that redefines the genre with its dazzling visuals and energetic performances. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, this film captures the essence of the Parisian cabaret scene during the early 20th century. The film’s star-studded cast, including Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, brings the story of performers and their struggles to the forefront. With its iconic songs and memorable sequences, Moulin Rouge! has become a modern classic, beloved for its extravagant style and cultural relevance.

3. La La Land (2016) - Damien Chazelle

Perhaps the most widely recognized and critically acclaimed musical of recent years is Damien Chazelle’s “La La Land.” This 2016 film takes the classic Hollywood musical blueprint and gives it a contemporary twist. Starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, the film tells the story of a struggling jazz pianist and a would-be actress whose dreams and realizations clash. Chazelle’s masterful direction and stunning cinematography make “La La Land” a must-see for any fan of the genre. The film has received numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song, and continues to hold a significant place in the hearts of cinema-goers worldwide.

4. Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001) - John Cameron Mitchell

Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a poignant musical that delivers a powerful narrative about gender identity, sexuality, and self-acceptance. Directed by John Cameron Mitchell, this film is a gritty, emotionally charged performance that explores the life of Hedwig, a transgender singer-songwriter. With its raw authenticity and socially relevant themes, the film has become a cult classic, inspiring a series of theatrical adaptations and cementing its place in the annals of modern musical cinema.

Importance of a Musical in Film

These films are not just isolated works; they collectively represent the evolution and influence of musicals in the modern film industry. Critics and audiences alike have acknowledged their unique qualities and significance. “Dancer in the Dark” stands out for its raw and emotive portrayal, while “Moulin Rouge!” and “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” offer vibrant and socially conscious narratives. Meanwhile, “La La Land” has come to symbolize the renaissance of the musical in contemporary cinema, thanks to its masterful execution and timeless appeal.

Consensus and Critical Reception

It is important to note that critical consensus finds “La La Land” at the top when it comes to Best Musical in the past 20 years. Its critical acclaim is clear from its high ratings on platforms such as IMDb, where it has an 8.0 rating based on 460,800 votes. Other films like “Dancer in the Dark” also boast high ratings despite being less seen, with an 8.0 based on 96,500 votes. The lower total votes for “Hedwig” and “Moulin Rouge!” reflect their specific niches but still demonstrate a strong and engaged audience.

Conclusion

Despite the existing criticism and differing opinions, it is evident that “La La Land” emerges as the clear winner in the category of Best Movie Musical of the Past 20 Years. “Dancer in the Dark,” “Moulin Rouge!” and “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” each bring unique qualities to the table, but overall, “La La Land” has the best support from both film buffs and critics, primarily due to its purist form, where characters break into original songs without any rationalization. While other films like “Chicago” may hold strong positions, “La La Land” is the ultimate choice for a film that delivers both emotional depth and artistic merit.

Let’s come to a chorus for our conclusion:

Consensus! Consensus! It’s how you do it! It’s other voices that see you through it. Consensus! Consensus! It’s all that matters! It’s weak beliefs that consensus shatters. (second time) Consensus! Consensus! You have to find it! And once you learn it … You’ll never-mind it.

Whether you agree or not, the collective opinion of film lovers and critics confirms “La La Land” as the ultimate movie musical of the past 20 years.