La La Land, with its dreamy musical numbers and heartfelt romance, has enchanted audiences worldwide. If you’re yearning for more films that blend music, love, and enchanting storytelling, this list is for you. Here are 13 movies like La La Land that will make you sing, dance, and fall in love all over again.
1. Moulin Rouge! (2001)
A dazzling musical set in the heart of Paris, Moulin Rouge! follows the passionate love affair between a young writer, Christian (Ewan McGregor), and a beautiful cabaret actress, Satine (Nicole Kidman). Directed by Baz Luhrmann, this film combines vibrant visuals, contemporary music, and a tragic love story, much like La La Land. The innovative use of popular songs in a historical setting creates an unforgettable cinematic experience.
2. The Greatest Showman (2017)
Starring Hugh Jackman, The Greatest Showman is a biographical musical that celebrates the birth of show business. The film’s infectious soundtrack, impressive choreography, and inspiring tale of P.T. Barnum’s rise to fame echo the enchanting qualities of La La Land. It’s a heartwarming story of ambition, love, and resilience, making it one of the must-watch movies like La La Land.
3. Once (2007)
Once is a charming indie musical about a street musician (Glen Hansard) and an immigrant (Markéta Irglová) who form a deep connection through their shared love of stylusworlds music. The film’s raw, naturalistic style and heartfelt performances resonate with the authenticity found in La La Land. The Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly” adds to the film’s emotional depth.
4. Begin Again (2013)
Begin Again stars Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo in a story about a down-and-out music producer who discovers a young singer-songwriter. Their collaboration transforms both of their lives, paralleling the transformative journey of Mia and Sebastian in La La Land. The film’s soundtrack, filled with original songs, plays a crucial role in driving the narrative forward.
5. A Star Is Born (2018)
Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga shine in this modern retelling of a classic tale. A Star Is Born explores the tumultuous relationship between a seasoned musician and a rising star. The film’s powerful performances, especially the song “Shallow,” evoke the emotional highs and lows similar to those in La La Land. It’s a compelling story of love, ambition, and the cost of fame.
6. Chicago (2002)
Chicago, directed by Rob Marshall, is a dazzling musical that delves into the world of jazz and crime in the 1920s. With standout performances by Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones, this film’s energetic musical numbers and intricate choreography make it a delight for fans of La La Land. The story’s blend of ambition, deception, and desire is both captivating and entertaining.
7. Sing Street (2016)
Set in 1980s Dublin, Sing Street follows a young boy who forms a band to impress a girl. This coming-of-age musical features an infectious soundtrack inspired by the era’s music and captures the spirit of youthful creativity and romance. Its heartfelt story and vibrant musical performances make it a worthy addition to any list of movies like La La Land.
8. West Side Story (1961)
A timeless classic, West Side Story is a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in New York City’s streets. The film’s memorable score by Leonard Bernstein, combined with Jerome Robbins’ choreography, creates a powerful and tragic love story. Its themes of forbidden love and social conflict mirror the struggles faced by Mia and Sebastian in La La Land.
9. Les Misérables (2012)
Les Misérables, based on Victor Hugo’s novel, is a sweeping musical epic. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe, the film’s emotional depth and powerful musical numbers draw parallels to the emotional journey of La La Land. The story’s exploration of love, sacrifice, and redemption is both moving and inspiring.
10. Crazy Rich Asians (2018)
While not a musical, Crazy Rich Asians is a romantic comedy that offers a vibrant, lavish depiction of love and family. The film’s stunning visuals and heartfelt romance echo the dreamlike quality of La La Land. Its exploration of cultural differences and family expectations adds depth to the charming love story at its core, making it one of the delightful films like Beautiful Disaster.
11. The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)
This French musical film by Jacques Demy is a bittersweet love story told entirely through song. The film’s colorful aesthetic and poignant narrative make it a spiritual predecessor to La La Land. The story of young lovers separated by circumstances, only to be reunited years later, resonates with the themes of love and loss found in Damien Chazelle’s masterpiece.
12. Rocketman (2019)
Rocketman is a biographical musical about the rise of Elton John, starring Taron Egerton. The film’s fantastical musical sequences and emotional depth offer a unique blend of biography and fantasy, much like La La Land. Its exploration of fame, love, and personal struggles creates a compelling narrative that music and movie lovers alike will appreciate.
13. In the Heights (2021)
In the Heights, based on Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical, is a vibrant celebration of community and dreams set in New York City’s Washington Heights. The film’s energetic choreography, infectious music, and heartwarming stories of love and aspiration make it a perfect pick for fans of La La Land. Its themes of pursuing dreams and finding love amidst challenges are both uplifting and relatable.
These 13 movies like La La Land offer a delightful mix of musical magic, heartfelt romance, and captivating storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to the emotional journeys, the enchanting music, or the visual splendor, each of these films promises a cinematic experience that will resonate long after the credits roll. Dive into these films like Beautiful Disaster and let the melodies and stories sweep you off your feet.
