Cover The cast of ‘Mamma Mia!’ (Photo: Universal Pictures)
The cast of ‘Mamma Mia!’ (Photo: Universal Pictures)
1 / 1
If you loved ‘Wicked,’ these film adaptations of Broadway musicals are worth the watch
As anticipation builds for the release of Wicked: For Good, the world of musical adaptations offers a perfect escape. These films bring the magic of Broadway to the screen, combining powerful storytelling with unforgettable songs. From the emotionally charged Les Misérables to the exuberant Mamma Mia! and the groundbreaking brilliance of Hamilton, there’s something for everybody in this genre, and they should keep the magic alive until Wicked’s second instalment is released on November 21, 2025.
Read more: From ‘Zaddy’ to ‘Wicked’ friendships: the pop culture moments that defined the Golden Globes 2025
1. ‘Les Misérables’ (2012)
Above Anne Hathaway sings “I Dreamed a Dream”
A powerful adaptation of Victor Hugo's classic novel, Les Misérables brings the stage production to life with an all-star cast, heart-wrenching performances, and timeless songs like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “Do You Hear the People Sing?” Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe deliver unforgettable portrayals, immersing audiences in the story’s themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the enduring fight for justice.
2. ‘Hamilton’ (2020)
Above Renée Elise Goldsberry sings “Satisfied”
A live-capture of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s revolutionary Broadway show, this production blends hip-hop, R&B, and traditional show tunes to tell the story of Alexander Hamilton and the birth of America. With a diverse cast and a modern musical score, Hamilton reimagines American history through a contemporary lens, making the founding fathers' struggles and triumphs feel relevant to today's audiences. With standout performances and an audacious approach to storytelling, the musical has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated not only for its artistic brilliance but also for its impact far beyond the stage.
3. ‘In the Heights’ (2021)
Above “96,000” from ‘In the Heights’
Another Lin-Manuel Miranda musical, In the Heights celebrates community, dreams, and heritage in Washington Heights, with energetic choreography and unforgettable songs like “96,000" and "Breathe.” Sassy, sweaty, and upbeat, it's the perfect summer watch for the musically inclined. The film by Wicked director Jon M. Chu, captures the vibrancy and tight-knit spirit of the neighborhood, showcasing the hopes and struggles of its residents with a fresh, heartfelt perspective that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.
4. ‘Tick, Tick... Boom!’ (2021)
Above Andrew Garfield performs “Swimming”
This adaptation of Rent creator Jonathan Larson’s semi-autobiographical musical is an emotional tribute to the struggles and triumphs of a young artist chasing his dreams. Andrew Garfield received an Academy Award nomination and won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for his performance in the film. Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the movie shows a poignant portrayal of artistic passion, friendship, and the fragility of life, further enhanced by a pop-rock soundtrack and captivating visuals.
5. ‘Moulin Rouge!’ (2001)
Above The official music video of “Lady Marmalade” from the soundtrack of “Moulin Rouge”
Baz Luhrmann’s dizzyingly stunning jukebox musical set in 1900s Paris is a whirlwind of romance and spectacle, featuring reimagined pop hits like “Your Song,” “Lady Marmalade,” and “Come What May.” It's not a musical adaptation, but the other way around: Moulin Rouge! The Musical premiered in Boston in 2018 and made its Broadway debut in 2019. It has since won 10 Tony Awards.
6. ‘Rent’ (2005)
Above Idina Menzel, Rosario Dawson, and Taye Diggs star in “Rent"
Jonathan Larson’s iconic musical captures love, identity, and survival in New York City during the AIDS crisis, with heartfelt anthems like “Seasons of Love” and “La Vie Bohème.” The 2005 film also stars Anthony Rapp, Adam Pascal, and Jesse L. Martin. It brings together much of the original Broadway cast, adding authenticity and raw emotion to its powerful themes. With its gritty depiction of bohemian life and an unflinching look at friendship and loss, Rent remains a cultural touchstone that resonates with audiences to this day.
7. ‘West Side Story’ (2021)
Above Rachel Zegler and Ansel Elgort in “West Side Story"
A remake of a film adaptation of the 1957 musical, Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story reimagines this Romeo-and-Juliet-inspired tale of love and rivalry with stunning cinematography and choreography. It features a cast of now-sought-after names, including Rachel Zegler, Ansel Elgort, Mike Faist, Ariana DeBose and Maddie Ziegler. The original was conceived by Jerome Robbins with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, based on a book by Arthur Laurents.
8. ‘Chicago’ (2002)
Above Renée Zellweger as Roxie
This jazzy, sultry adaptation of the Broadway hit tells a tale of fame, crime, and razzle-dazzle, with unforgettable performances by Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Fame and crime get the razzle-dazzle treatment as two jailed murderesses, who also happen to be rival cabaret performers, await their fate in Cook County Jail. Their journey unfolds in a whirlwind of show-stopping musical numbers, legal drama, and the dark allure of celebrity culture, with Richard Gere delivering a standout performance as their smooth-talking lawyer, Billy Flynn.
9. ‘Dreamgirls’ (2006)
Above Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson in “Dreamgirls”
Featuring powerhouse performances by Beyoncé as Deena Jones, which is a character based on Diana Ross, and Jamie Foxx as Curtis Taylor, Jr. It also features Jennifer Hudson in a breakout role as Effie White, for which she won an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a BAFTA Award, and an NAACP Image Award. This adaptation of the Broadway hit is a glittering tale of ambition, heartbreak, and resilience.
10. ‘Into the Woods’ (2014)
Above Meryl Streep sings “Last Midnight”
Into the Woods is a spellbinding film adaptation of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's acclaimed Broadway musical, weaving together the enchanting worlds of beloved fairy tales with a modern, introspective twist. Directed by Rob Marshall, the 2014 movie follows a baker and his wife, played by James Corden and Emily Blunt, as they venture into the woods to lift a witch's curse preventing them from having a child. Meryl Streep delivering a powerful performance as the Witch.
11. ‘Mamma Mia!’ (2008)
Above Meryl Streep sings “Mamma Mia (Here I Go Again”
Mamma Mia! is a vibrant cinematic celebration of love, family, and the enduring magic of ABBA’s music. Adapted from the beloved stage musical, the 2008 film brings to life the story of Sophie Sheridan, a spirited young woman on a Greek island who secretly invites three men from her mother Donna’s past to her wedding, hoping to discover which one is her father. Directed by Phyllida Lloyd, the film features an all-star cast led by Meryl Streep as Donna, Amanda Seyfried as Sophie, and Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Stellan Skarsgård as the potential fathers. With songs like “Dancing Queen” and “The Winner Takes It All,” Mamma Mia! is a joyous tribute to both the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of ABBA's hits.
Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, and Ariana Grande will all return for Wicked: For Good in November 2025. For now, let these musical gems keep you entertained.
NOW READ
Broadway's ‘Wicked’ to return to Singapore in 2025
Movies, shows, and books to enjoy if you're dropping ‘The Sandman’
