10 Must-Watch Movies That Inspire Through Musicians’ Perseverance and Passion

Music has always been a powerful medium, transcending boundaries and touching the deepest parts of our souls.

Movies about musicians not only celebrate their craft but also highlight their perseverance, love, and inspiration. Here are ten films that beautifully capture these feelings, and you could be inspired to create your piece to participate in our MiMc Music Awards»

1. La La Land

Awards: 6 Oscars, including Best Director and Best Actress

Cast: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone

Country: USA (2016)

Summary: La La Land tells the story of an aspiring actress and a jazz musician who pursue their dreams in Los Angeles. Their love for each other and their passion for their art forms create a bittersweet symphony of ambition and heartache.

2. Whiplash

Awards: 3 Oscars, including Best Supporting Actor

Cast: Miles Teller, J.K. Simmons

Country: USA (2014)

Summary: This intense drama follows a young drummer enrolled at a competitive music conservatory. His quest for perfection and approval from his ruthless instructor highlights the extreme dedication and sacrifices musicians often make.

3. Begin Again

Awards: Nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song

Cast: Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo

Country: USA (2013)

Summary: A chance meeting between a disgraced music executive and a young singer-songwriter leads to a transformative collaboration. Begin Again showcases the healing power of music and the joy of creative rebirth.

4. Once

Awards: Oscar for Best Original Song

Cast: Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová

Country: Ireland (2007)

Summary: This modern-day musical tells the story of a busker and an immigrant who meet and create beautiful music together. Their bond and the music they make reflect the raw, unfiltered emotions of real life and love.

5. Amadeus

Awards: 8 Oscars, including Best Picture

Cast: F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce

Country: USA (1984)

Summary: A fictionalized biography of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, this film explores the genius and the turmoil behind his music, highlighting both his incredible talent and the intense jealousy it inspired in his contemporaries.

6. C.R.A.Z.Y.

Awards: 10 Genie Awards

Cast: Marc-André Grondin, Michel Côté

Country: Canada (2005)

Summary: This Canadian film follows a young man growing up in a conservative family in the 1970s. His love for music and his struggle for acceptance and identity are at the heart of this touching coming-of-age story.

7. The Red Violin

Awards: Oscar for Best Original Score

Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Greta Scacchi

Country: Canada (1998)

Summary: This epic tale spans several centuries and countries, tracing the journey of a mysterious violin and its impact on various owners. The film beautifully intertwines music with themes of love, loss, and passion.

8. A Star Is Born

Awards: Oscar for Best Original Song

Cast: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga

Country: USA (2018)

Summary: A seasoned musician discovers and falls in love with a struggling artist. As her career ascends, his battles with personal demons escalate. This film captures the highs and lows of the music industry and the personal costs of fame.

9. Control

Awards: Cannes Film Festival Best European Film

Cast: Sam Riley, Samantha Morton

Country: UK (2007)

Summary: This biographical film portrays the life of Ian Curtis, the lead singer of the post-punk band Joy Division. It delves into his struggles with epilepsy, depression, and the pressures of fame, culminating in a poignant exploration of artistic passion and personal turmoil.

10. The Pianist

Awards: 3 Oscars, including Best Director

Cast: Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann

Country: France, Poland, Germany, UK (2002)

Summary: Based on the autobiography of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist, this film chronicles his survival during World War II. His music becomes both a means of survival and a symbol of hope amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.

These films not only entertain but also inspire, showing musicians’ resilience, love, and unwavering dedication. They remind us of music’s profound impact on our lives and the incredible stories behind the melodies that move us.

In our Digital Musical Community, you can find resources like this that help you seek inspiration and opportunities to take your career to the next level.

Find more information about our MiMc Music Awards and learn more about how to register.