Films About Bands
Films about bands often explore the dynamic world of music groups, delving into their rise to fame, internal struggles, and the impact of their music on the world. These films can be fictional stories or biographical accounts, offering a glimpse into the creative processes, relationships, and challenges that bands face. Whether it’s the thrill of performing live, the conflicts that arise behind the scenes, or the journey to achieve stardom, these movies captivate audiences with their engaging narratives and powerful soundtracks.
List of Films About Bands
“Almost Famous”, 2000
Director: Cameron Crowe
This semi-autobiographical film by Cameron Crowe tells the story of a teenage journalist who goes on tour with the fictional rock band Stillwater in the 1970s. The movie captures the essence of the rock music scene and the coming-of-age journey of the protagonist.
Starring: Patrick Fugit, Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson, Jason Lee, Zooey Deschanel, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Anna Paquin, Fairuza Balk, Noah Taylor;
Production year: 2000;
Genre: drama, comedy, adventure, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 123 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “Almost Famous” on the website imdb.com
“The Commitments”, 1991
Director: Alan Parker
Set in Dublin, this film follows the formation of a soul band by a group of working-class youths. The movie highlights their aspirations, struggles, and the vibrant music they create.
Starring: Robert Arkins, Michael Aherne, Angeline Ball, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Dave Finnegan, Bronagh Gallagher, Félim Gormley, Glen Hansard, Dick Massey, Johnny Murphy;
Production year: 1991;
Genre: drama, comedy, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
More information about the film “The Commitments” on the website imdb.com
“School of Rock”, 2003
Director: Richard Linklater
A comedy where Jack Black plays a struggling musician who poses as a substitute teacher and turns his class into a rock band. The film showcases the transformative power of music and the joy of performing.
Starring: Jack Black, Joan Cusack, Mike White, Sarah Silverman, Adam Pascal, Lucas Papaelias, Chris Stack, Lucas Babin, Jordan-Claire Green, Veronica Afflerbach;
Production year: 2003;
Genre: comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 109 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “School of Rock” on the website imdb.com
“Sing Street”, 2015
Director: John Carney
Set in 1980s Dublin, this film follows a young boy who starts a band to impress a girl. The movie features original music and portrays the creative spirit and youthful exuberance of forming a band.
Starring: Ferdia Walsh-Peelo, Lucy Boynton, Jack Reynor, Aidan Gillen, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Kelly Thornton, Ben Carolan, Ian Kenny, Percy Chamburuka, Mark McKenna;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 106 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
“The Doors”, 1991
Director: Oliver Stone
A biographical film about the American rock band The Doors, focusing on the life of lead singer Jim Morrison. Directed by Oliver Stone, it explores the band's rise to fame and Morrison's turbulent life.
Starring: Val Kilmer, Meg Ryan, Kyle MacLachlan, Frank Whaley, Kevin Dillon, Michael Wincott, Michael Madsen, Josh Evans, Dennis Burkley, Billy Idol;
Production year: 1991;
Genre: drama, biography, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 140 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
“That Thing You Do!”, 1996
Director: Tom Hanks
Written and directed by Tom Hanks, this film follows the rise and fall of a one-hit-wonder band in the 1960s. It captures the excitement and pitfalls of sudden fame in the music industry.
Starring: Tom Everett Scott, Liv Tyler, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, Ethan Embry, Tom Hanks, Charlize Theron, Obba Babatundé, Giovanni Ribisi, Chris Ellis;
Production year: 1996;
Genre: drama, comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 108 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “That Thing You Do!” on the website imdb.com
“Bohemian Rhapsody”, 2018
Director: Bryan Singer
A biographical film about the British rock band Queen, focusing on lead singer Freddie Mercury. The movie traces the band's meteoric rise, Mercury's personal struggles, and their iconic Live Aid performance.
Starring: Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Gwilym Lee, Ben Hardy, Joseph Mazzello, Aidan Gillen, Allen Leech, Tom Hollander, Mike Myers, Aaron McCusker;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: biography, music, drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 134 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “Bohemian Rhapsody” on the website imdb.com
“The Runaways”, 2010
Director: Floria Sigismondi
This biographical drama focuses on the all-female rock band The Runaways and their teenage members, particularly Joan Jett and Cherie Currie. It explores their formation, success, and the pressures they faced as young female rockers.
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, Michael Shannon, Stella Maeve, Scout Taylor-Compton, Alia Shawkat, Riley Keough, Johnny Lewis, Tatum O'Neal, Brett Cullen;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: drama, biography, music;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 105 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,5;
More information about the film “The Runaways” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a variety of perspectives on the experiences of bands, from the humorous to the dramatic, and provide an entertaining look into the world of music and its impact on both artists and fans.
In conclusion, films about bands provide a captivating glimpse into the dynamic world of music, showcasing not only the glitz and glamour but also the trials and tribulations that musicians face. These movies often blend compelling narratives with electrifying performances, offering audiences an immersive experience that highlights the passion, creativity, and often tumultuous journey of forming, maintaining, and succeeding in a band. From biopics that faithfully recount the lives of iconic groups to fictional tales that capture the essence of musical camaraderie and conflict, these films resonate with both music enthusiasts and general audiences alike, celebrating the universal language of music and its profound impact on culture and society.
