Today, 21st June is World Music Day. Music plays an often overlooked but extremely vital part in creating an emotional bedrock for any movie to thrive on. In fact, many believe that music, even by itself is capable of shaping the emotional direction of the film. But on this day when we celebrate the presence of music in our lives, let’s bring music to the forefront – we at Opoyi have compiled a list of 5 movies where the music takes centre stage, so you can not just experience music on this special day, but also live it through the various characters and stories that these movies will unearth. Read on!
Whiplash (2014)
Where: Prime
This intense and psychological drama was directed by Damien Chazelle, with Miles Teller starring in the lead role. The story revolves around a young ambitious jazz drummer Andrew Neiman (Teller) who enrolls at a fictional music Conservatory and is pushed to the limits by his ruthless and often abusive instructor. This is more than just a movie based on music. Rather this movie shows the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity- it’s inspiring, gripping, and might even motivate you to sign up for drum lessons!
Also read: The best Paul McCartney songs for The Beatles
8 Mile (2002)
Where: Prime
Hailed as the best film of 2002 by many publications, this film stars Eminem in his film debut and contains strong autobiographical elements from the world-famous rapper’s life. The film follows the attempts of budding white rapper- Jimmy B-Rabbit Smith to break into the hip-hop scene which is largely dominated by African-Americans and build a career there. Jimmy has a messy life, and a rap contest throws him a life jacket- offering him one last chance to turn his life around for good.
Also read: Drake announces new album ‘Honestly, Nevermind’: All you need to know
La La Land (2016)
Where: Youtube for Rs.180
Another on this list directed by Damien Chazelle, this musical romantic comedy-drama takes us deep into the lives of struggling jazz pianist (Ryan Gosling) and aspiring actress (Emma Stone) who chase their passions seeking success in the cutthroat world of Los Angeles, while at the same time discovering and processing their feelings for one another. This movie won a bucketful of accolades, including a record-breaking seven awards from its seven nominations at the 74th Golden globes. It also earned a record-equalling 14 nominations at the 89th Academy Awards winning six of them, including Best Film and Best Director.
Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)
Where: Netflix (VPN required)
This is a biographical music drama directed by Bryan Singer and co-produced by Graham King and Queen manager Jim Beach. Starring Rami Malek the movie takes us into the life of Freddie Mercury (Malek) iconic frontman of Queen, from the formation of the banned in 1917 all the way to their famous Live Aid concert at the old Wembley stadium in 1985. Queen legends Brian May and Roger Taylor also took an active part in the making of this movie- as consultants, and the fact that Bohemian Rhapsody has won numerous accolades means you can rest assured that you’ll be venturing into a riveting musical journey!
Also read: Beyoncé announces new album ‘Renaissance’ to drop July 29
‘CODA’ (2021)
Where: Apple TV+
The coming-of-age comedy-drama revolves around Ruby (Emilia Jones) who is a CODA (Child of deaf adults). Ruby is the only hearing member in a deaf family and she has to fight between her desire to help her family’s local business and the pull of her dreams- of joining Berklee College of music to become a singer. Like its illustrious predecessors on this list, CODA has won numerous awards too– at the 94th Academy Awards, the film won three out of its three nominations, winning the Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, and the Best Adapted Screenplay.
