33 Best Movies like The Greatest Showman (2017)

Moulin Rouge! celebrates the spectacle of show business, much like The Greatest Showman, but adds a visually extravagant and emotionally charged tale that immerses viewers in the bohemian world of Parisian cabaret. Its bold style and memorable soundtrack make the film a standout musical spectacle.

A celebration of love and creative inspiration takes place in the infamous, gaudy and glamorous Parisian nightclub, at the cusp of the 20th century. A young poet, who is plunged into the heady world of Moulin Rouge, begins a passionate affair with the club's most notorious and beautiful star. Moulin Rouge! is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 8m runtime, released in 2001 with an average rating of 7.5 by 4,898 people. The movie made an estimated total of $179,213,434 in the box office.

La La Land earns its place by weaving ambition and artistry into a romance touched by the magic of musicals. The film's enchanting music, lush cinematography, and emotional storytelling offer a modern tribute to dreams and creative passion in cinema.

Mia, an aspiring actress, serves lattes to movie stars in between auditions and Sebastian, a jazz musician, scrapes by playing cocktail party gigs in dingy bars, but as success mounts they are faced with decisions that begin to fray the fragile fabric of their love affair, and the dreams they worked so hard to maintain in each other threaten to rip them apart. La La Land is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 9m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.9 by 18,305 people. The movie made an estimated total of $509,183,536 in the box office.

Billy Elliot is included for its compelling journey of an underdog who pursues his unique passion against social expectations. Its heartfelt coming-of-age story and dynamic performance sequences give the film a resonance all its own.

County Durham, England, 1984. The miners' strike has started and the police have started coming up from Bethnal Green, starting a class war with the lower classes suffering. Caught in the middle of the conflict is 11-year old Billy Elliot, who, after leaving his boxing club for the day, stumbles upon a ballet class and finds out that he's naturally talented. He practices with his teacher Mrs. Wilkinson for an upcoming audition in Newcastle-upon Tyne for the royal Ballet school in London. Billy Elliot is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 1h 51m runtime, released in 2000 with an average rating of 7.6 by 4,136 people. The movie made an estimated total of $109,280,263 in the box office.

Rocketman secures its spot by chronicling the rise of a legendary entertainer, inviting audiences into an imaginative and music-driven exploration of identity. The inventive musical numbers and bold visual storytelling set it apart.

The story of Elton John's life, from his years as a prodigy at the Royal Academy of Music through his influential and enduring musical partnership with Bernie Taupin. Rocketman is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 1m runtime, released in 2019 with an average rating of 7.3 by 5,038 people. The movie made an estimated total of $167,300,000 in the box office.

Chicago thrives on the allure of performance and notoriety, set amidst a world where ambition and entertainment collide. Its energetic choreography, vibrant production, and biting wit make it an unforgettable entry in the musical drama genre.

Murderesses Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart find themselves on death row together and fight for the fame that will keep them from the gallows in 1920s Chicago. Chicago is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 53m runtime, released in 2002 with an average rating of 7.1 by 2,947 people. The movie made an estimated total of $306,776,732 in the box office.

The Greatest Show on Earth shares a direct subject connection, delving into the sensational world of circus life. This classic film is distinguished by its grand scope and unique mid-century perspective on the challenges and triumphs of putting on a spectacle.

To ensure a full profitable season, circus manager Brad Braden engages The Great Sebastian, though this moves his girlfriend Holly from her hard-won center trapeze spot. Holly and Sebastian begin a dangerous one-upmanship duel in the ring, while he pursues her on the ground. The Greatest Show on Earth is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 32m runtime, released in 1952 with an average rating of 6.4 by 283 people. The movie made an estimated total of $36,000,000 in the box office.

Sing Street is included for its story of young characters using music as a hopeful escape from ordinary life. It stands out through its infectious original songs, authentic 1980s atmosphere, and uplifting energy.

A boy growing up in Dublin during the 1980s escapes his strained family life by starting a band to impress the mysterious girl he likes. Sing Street is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 45m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.9 by 2,480 people. The movie made an estimated total of $13,624,522 in the box office.

Dreamgirls belongs here for its exploration of fame, ambition, and the personal costs of show business. Its powerful performances and strong musical numbers create a vivid and emotionally resonant narrative.

A trio of female soul singers cross over to the pop charts in the early 1960s, facing their own personal struggles along the way. Dreamgirls is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 10m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 6.7 by 1,098 people. The movie made an estimated total of $154,937,680 in the box office.

The Prestige finds its place with a thematic thread of showmanship and the pursuit of greatness. This film captivates audiences through its inventive twists, dramatic stakes, and the tension between magic and reality.

A mysterious story of two magicians whose intense rivalry leads them on a life-long battle for supremacy -- full of obsession, deceit and jealousy with dangerous and deadly consequences. The Prestige is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 2h 10m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 8.2 by 17,870 people. The movie made an estimated total of $109,676,311 in the box office.

The Artist earns selection for its affectionate homage to the entertainment industry and the transformative power of performance. The silent film format and expressive acting deliver a distinctive, charming viewing experience.

Hollywood, 1927: As silent movie star George Valentin wonders if the arrival of talking pictures will cause him to fade into oblivion, he sparks with Peppy Miller, a young dancer set for a big break. The Artist is a movie from France in French, with a total 1h 40m runtime, released in 2011 with an average rating of 7.4 by 3,564 people. The movie made an estimated total of $133,432,856 in the box office.

Burlesque secures inclusion through its depiction of transformation via the stage and self-expression through music and dance. Its glamorous visuals, energetic performances, and empowering story are highlights.

Ali leaves behind a troubled life and follows her dreams to Los Angeles, where she lands a job as a cocktail waitress at the Burlesque Lounge, a once-majestic theater that houses an inspired musical revue. Vowing to perform there, she makes the leap from bar to stage, helping restore the club's former glory. Burlesque is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 59m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 7.2 by 2,392 people. The movie made an estimated total of $89,500,000 in the box office.

The Circus stands out for its comedic portrayal of circus life, providing a unique silent era take on the world of entertainment. Charlie Chaplin’s inventive physical comedy ensures the film’s lasting appeal.

Charlie, a wandering tramp, becomes a circus handyman - soon the star of the show - and falls in love with the circus owner's stepdaughter. The Circus is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 12m runtime, released in 1928 with an average rating of 7.9 by 906 people.

Cabaret is brought in due to its exploration of musical performance against an evocative historical backdrop. The film’s daring style and arresting musical sequences create a memorable cinematic atmosphere.

Inside the Kit Kat Club of 1931 Berlin, starry-eyed singer Sally Bowles and an impish emcee sound the clarion call to decadent fun, while outside a certain political party grows into a brutal force. Cabaret is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 4m runtime, released in 1972 with an average rating of 7.4 by 993 people. The movie made an estimated total of $42,800,000 in the box office.

The Sound of Music is included thanks to its uplifting musical storytelling and the centrality of music in the characters’ lives. Its sweeping scenery and enduring songs have captured audiences across generations.

In the years before World War II, a tomboyish postulant at an Austrian abbey is hired as a governess in the home of a widowed naval captain with seven children and brings a new love of life and music into the home. The Sound of Music is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 54m runtime, released in 1965 with an average rating of 7.7 by 3,672 people. The movie made an estimated total of $286,214,286 in the box office.

Walk the Line makes the list by offering an inside look at the journey toward artistic greatness, depicted through the rise of a celebrated entertainer. Its powerful leads and emotional depth enrich the film’s appeal.

A chronicle of country music legend Johnny Cash's life, from his early days on an Arkansas cotton farm to his rise to fame with Sun Records in Memphis, where he recorded alongside Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. Walk the Line is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 16m runtime, released in 2005 with an average rating of 7.5 by 3,177 people. The movie made an estimated total of $186,800,000 in the box office.

Hairspray earns a spot for its vibrant use of music and dance to challenge societal norms. The film’s exuberant style and infectious optimism make it a standout musical experience.

Pleasantly plump teenager Tracy Turnblad auditions to be on Baltimore's most popular dance show - The Corny Collins Show - and lands a prime spot. Through her newfound fame, she becomes determined to help her friends and end the racial segregation that has been a staple of the show. Hairspray is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 56m runtime, released in 2007 with an average rating of 6.7 by 2,649 people. The movie made an estimated total of $90,450,008 in the box office.

The Phantom of the Opera distinguishes itself through the captivating interplay between theatrical performance and dramatic romance. Its striking visuals and iconic score make for an atmospheric musical journey.

A young soprano becomes the obsession of a disfigured and murderous musical genius who lives beneath the Paris Opera House. The Phantom of the Opera is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 2h 21m runtime, released in 2004 with an average rating of 7.3 by 1,800 people. The movie made an estimated total of $154,674,241 in the box office.

Finding Neverland contributes by exploring the imaginative creation of legendary entertainment through its dramatization of inspiration and creative process. Its touching approach to storytelling adds to its distinctiveness.

During a writing slump, playwright J.M. Barrie meets a widow and her four children, all young boys—who soon become an important part of Barrie’s life and the inspiration that lead him to create his masterpiece. Peter Pan. Finding Neverland is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 46m runtime, released in 2004 with an average rating of 7.3 by 3,782 people. The movie made an estimated total of $116,766,556 in the box office.

Annie deserves inclusion for presenting an uplifting musical narrative about hope and opportunity, all through the eyes of a resilient young protagonist. The film’s endearing characters and memorable songs leave a lasting impression.

An orphan in a facility run by the mean Miss Hannigan, Annie believes that her parents left her there by mistake. When a rich man named Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks decides to let an orphan live at his home to promote his image, Annie is selected. While Annie gets accustomed to living in Warbucks' mansion, she still longs to meet her parents. So Warbucks announces a search for them and a reward, which brings out many frauds. Annie is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 7m runtime, released in 1982 with an average rating of 6.6 by 782 people. The movie made an estimated total of $57,063,861 in the box office.

Fame is here for its depiction of aspiring artists pushing boundaries to achieve their dreams. The film’s energetic pacing and vibrant depiction of youth culture give it unique character.

A chronicle of the lives of several teenagers who attend a New York high school for students gifted in the performing arts. Fame is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 14m runtime, released in 1980 with an average rating of 6.4 by 521 people. The movie made an estimated total of $42,000,000 in the box office.

Yentl merits a place due to its portrait of ambition and personal identity found through the pursuit of knowledge and song. The film stands out with its emotional performances and poignant storytelling.

In a time when girls were forbidden to study religious scriptures, a Jewish girl masquerades as a boy to enter religious training and unexpectedly finds love along the way. Yentl is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 12m runtime, released in 1983 with an average rating of 6.7 by 263 people. The movie made an estimated total of $30,400,000 in the box office.

Les Misu0000e9rables is on the list for its grand, emotionally charged musical scope, where characters overcome adversity through resilience and song. Its striking ensemble cast and rousing score enhance the dramatic experience.

An adaptation of the successful stage musical based on Victor Hugo's classic novel set in 19th-century France. Jean Valjean, a man imprisoned for stealing bread, must flee a relentless policeman named Javert. The pursuit consumes both men's lives, and soon Valjean finds himself in the midst of the student revolutions in France. Les Misérables is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 2h 38m runtime, released in 2012 with an average rating of 7.3 by 5,631 people. The movie made an estimated total of $442,636,309 in the box office.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street offers a dark twist on musical storytelling, infusing the genre with gothic atmosphere and bold performances. Its blend of suspense and melody is particularly memorable.

The infamous story of Benjamin Barker, a.k.a Sweeney Todd, who sets up a barber shop down in London which is the basis for a sinister partnership with his fellow tenant, Mrs. Lovett. Based on the hit Broadway musical. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 56m runtime, released in 2007 with an average rating of 7.2 by 6,418 people. The movie made an estimated total of $153,384,272 in the box office.

A Star Is Born earns its place by depicting the rise of talent and the bittersweet costs of fame. The emotionally charged performances and original songs make this film both gripping and moving.

Seasoned musician Jackson Maine discovers — and falls in love with — struggling artist Ally. She has just about given up on her dream to make it big as a singer — until Jack coaxes her into the spotlight. But even as Ally's career takes off, the personal side of their relationship is breaking down, as Jack fights an ongoing battle with his own internal demons. A Star Is Born is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 16m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 7.5 by 12,306 people. The movie made an estimated total of $436,388,866 in the box office.

The Rose is selected for its raw portrayal of a performer's intense relationship with the world of entertainment. The film’s powerful musical moments and emotional honesty set it apart.

Rock-and-roll singer Mary Rose Foster's romantic relationships and mental health are continuously imperilled by the demands of life on the road. The Rose is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 5m runtime, released in 1979 with an average rating of 6.7 by 136 people. The movie made an estimated total of $29,174,648 in the box office.

Amadeus is included for its focus on artistic genius and the dramatic highs and lows of creative ambition. The film’s richly detailed production and riveting character dynamics make it a cinematic classic.

Disciplined Italian composer Antonio Salieri becomes consumed by jealousy and resentment towards the hedonistic and remarkably talented young Salzburger composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Amadeus is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 40m runtime, released in 1984 with an average rating of 8.0 by 4,838 people. The movie made an estimated total of $90,007,557 in the box office.

Coal Miner's Daughter belongs for its authentic journey through the world of music and personal triumph over adversity. The film’s heartfelt performances and compelling true story leave an indelible mark.

Biography of Loretta Lynn, a country and western singer that came from poverty to fame. Coal Miner's Daughter is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 5m runtime, released in 1980 with an average rating of 7.2 by 286 people. The movie made an estimated total of $67,182,787 in the box office.

The Fabulous Baker Boys makes the list with its nuanced look into the complexities between performers and the sacrifices required for show business success. Its jazz-infused tone and sharp dialogue offer a distinctive angle.

The lives of two struggling musicians, who happen to be brothers, inevitably change when they team up with a beautiful, up-and-coming singer. The Fabulous Baker Boys is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 54m runtime, released in 1989 with an average rating of 6.6 by 371 people. The movie made an estimated total of $18,428,904 in the box office.

Ray is relevant here due to its stirring exploration of musical talent grappling with personal hardship. The film’s acclaimed performances and historical depth give it lasting resonance.

Born on a sharecropping plantation in Northern Florida, Ray Charles went blind at seven. Inspired by a fiercely independent mom who insisted he make his own way, He found his calling and his gift behind a piano keyboard. Touring across the Southern musical circuit, the soulful singer gained a reputation and then exploded with worldwide fame when he pioneered coupling gospel and country together. Ray is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 32m runtime, released in 2004 with an average rating of 7.5 by 2,260 people. The movie made an estimated total of $124,700,000 in the box office.

Cinderella Man is featured for its dramatic journey of resilience and determination, resonating with stories of overcoming overwhelming odds. Its emotional core and period detail give it a distinctive character.

The true story of boxer Jim Braddock who, following his retirement in the 1930s, makes a surprise comeback in order to lift his family out of poverty. Cinderella Man is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 24m runtime, released in 2005 with an average rating of 7.6 by 2,455 people. The movie made an estimated total of $108,539,911 in the box office.

Evita finds its way onto the list for its interpretation of historical drama through operatic musical storytelling. The combination of powerful vocals and political intrigue offers a unique cinematic blend.

The hit musical based on the life of Evita Duarte, an Argentinian actress who eventually became the wife of Argentinian president Juan Perón, and the most beloved and hated woman in Argentina. Evita is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 15m runtime, released in 1996 with an average rating of 6.1 by 520 people. The movie made an estimated total of $141,047,179 in the box office.

All That Jazz earns inclusion for its ambitious examination of creativity, mortality, and the cost of relentless pursuit in entertainment. Its inventive structure and visually dynamic musical sequences distinguish it from standard fare.

Joe Gideon is at the top of the heap, one of the most successful directors and choreographers in musical theater. But he can feel his world slowly collapsing around him - his obsession with work has almost destroyed his personal life, and only his bottles of pills keep him going. All That Jazz is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 3m runtime, released in 1979 with an average rating of 7.5 by 613 people. The movie made an estimated total of $37,823,676 in the box office.

Florence Foster Jenkins illuminates the theme of aspiring to entertain against daunting odds, buoyed by the protagonist’s unwavering spirit. The film is memorable for its heartfelt humor and strong character portrayals.

The story of Florence Foster Jenkins, a New York heiress, who dreamed of becoming an opera singer, despite having a terrible singing voice. Florence Foster Jenkins is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 1h 50m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 6.7 by 1,546 people. The movie made an estimated total of $48,902,953 in the box office.