20 Best Rock and Roll Movies of all Time

Prince is one of the greatest icon in Rock and Roll history
Prince is one of the greatest icon in Rock and Roll history( Source : instagram )

Movie companies have attempted to portray the excitement and allure of rock music on the big screen from the dawn of the rock period.

As you can see in the gallery below, we chose one rock movie from each year between 1955 and the present to determine which was the finest of the group.

For all the fans of rock and roll music and movie enthusiasts, we have come up with the best top 20 rock and roll movies to ever exist.

Top 20 Rock And Roll Movies

20Grease (1978)
19Elvis (1979)
18Pink Floyd: The Wall (1982)
17Woodstock (1970)
16Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)
15A Hard Day’s Night (1964)
14Ladies and Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains (1982)
13Control (2007)
12Gimme Shelter (1970)
11American Graffiti (1973)
10Wayne’s World (1992)
9Dazed and Confused (1993)
8The Blues Brothers (1980)
7High Fidelity (2000)
6Stop Making Sense (1984)
5The Graduate (1967)
4The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
3Almost Famous (2000)
2This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
1Purple Rain (1984)


20. Grease (1978)

 Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta are mainly known for their performance on Grease.
Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta are mainly known for their performance on Grease. ( Source : instagram )

It makes sense that many individuals start singing one of the numerous fantastically contagious songs as soon as they hear the word "Grease." Grease will take you on the cinematic experience of a lifetime with a magnificent emotional rollercoaster.

The legendary couple, expertly portrayed by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, took control of the show and made their tumultuous love story the main focus.

Grease is a great film that gives a dramatic, upbeat depiction of high school life. Each of the characters has its own peculiarities and characteristics, and they would be incomplete without issues.

19. Elvis (1979)

Elvis and Priscilla photographed at Graceland in December 1965 who are both featured in the movie, Elvis.
Elvis and Priscilla photographed at Graceland in December 1965 who are both featured in the movie, Elvis. ( Source : instagram )

Elvis is a sophisticated exercise in a biography that depicts the musical superstar as his followers would like to remember him. It was made in 1979, barely two years after Presley's passing.

There are his modest origins, the ascent to stardom, love for his parents, Graceland, the golden period of Hollywood, and a loving union that couldn't endure the pressures of fame.

However, the "Elvis" tale came to a close in 1970 with Presley's first successful comeback in Las Vegas. The story ends prematurely, which negates the need to dwell on Presley's passing, even if there are indications of impending problems.

However, following one of the legends of Rock and Roll, this movie is an excellent watch for every rock and roll lover.

18. Pink Floyd: The Wall (1982)

Pink Floyd: The Wall is one of the most liked rock and roll movie of all time.
Pink Floyd: The Wall is one of the most liked rock and roll movie of all time. ( Source : instagram )

"Pink Floyd: The Wall," a gripping visual tour of the tragically disordered psyche. It's really just one long movie, which isn't really a bad thing for this movie. 

This movie is not your typical one. The cosmos was made for these musicians to sing in, and it features the best music ever sung by them. Anyone who sees this film will be awed by its magnificence and extraordinary ability, which have never been matched by anyone before or since the making of this film.

With the lonely mood, twisted animation, gloomy images, and Bob Geldof's quiet but gorgeous performance working together to produce a film so amazing that nobody could see it just once, Pink-Floyd took their finest record and made it even better.

17. Woodstock (1970)

Woodstock movie is a classic rock and roll movie.
Woodstock movie is a classic rock and roll movie. ( Source : instagram )

The film Woodstock tells the story of the society that emerged at Woodstock for a short time before dissipating. It demonstrates how the bands entertained it, the hog farm commune supplied it, and the Port-O-San guy provided restrooms.

The amazing thing about Wadleigh's movie is how well it does at conveying what it must have been like to be there.

It provides us with maybe 60% music and 40% information on the attendees, which is an excellent ratio. This isn't a "best hits" documentary; Wadleigh and his editors allowed each performer's set to develop, build, and double back on itself without interfering.

The director's edit is significantly more extensive, we discover for the first time that the Hendrix solo was connected to the notes of "Taps" in this movie.

16. Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)

Hedwig And The Angry Inch is a forever classic in the rock and roll community
Hedwig And The Angry Inch is a forever classic in the rock and roll community ( Source : instagram )

When it comes to love, self-discovery, taking two halves, and becoming one, the movie is a mix of humor and "profundity". It's not just a musical masterpiece.

It's also a genuine "LGBTQ+" film that we will always treasure. This film is significant in terms of "gender" identification and self-expression. 

The songs discuss a variety of subjects, including identity, self-expression, and Hedwig's hardships throughout her life. This movie is for you if you want to explore your "sexuality" live out your inner rock star or locate your missing half.

The main actor also happens to be the director of the movie and he gave a stellar performance. But to have also directed it is an incredible achievement on its own. All in all the movie is a delight for all rock and roll lovers.

15. A Hard Day’s Night (1964)

A Hard Day's Night depicts the life of the renowned band The Beatles
A Hard Day's Night depicts the life of the renowned band The Beatles ( Source : instagram )

The movie altered how people thought about the younger generation. Despite their fame, The Beatles are so brash and easygoing without being conceited. From beginning to end, the ride is a lot of fun.

That aesthetic suited the movie perfectly since it genuinely followed The Beatles and showed them being themselves. Alun Owen, who spent much time with The Beatles to understand their personalities and traits, wrote the script.

Many of the phrases in writing were inspired by things he overheard them saying. The movie did an excellent job of illustrating what it was like to be a Beatle back in time.

Their performance was excellent despite not being actors. Each member of The Beatles had a distinct personality and sense of humor, which was evident in the movie.

14. Ladies and Gentlemen The Fabulous Stains (1982)

Ladies And Gentlemen The Fabulous Stains is one of the classic rock and roll movies
Ladies And Gentlemen The Fabulous Stains is one of the classic rock and roll movies ( Source : instagram )

Despite not being the most revolutionary band movie ever produced, "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains" is one of the greatest ever done about the most important part of the revolution there is. 

Specifically, those of Diane Lane, Laura Dern, and Marin Kanter as three adolescent girls from a deserted mining village.

The trio, who are all genuine and self-declared orphans of the patriarchy, form a punk band that encourages its young female followers to embrace the "anarchy" of power and self-determinism. 

The way that "Stains" was made makes it a work of vehement defiance as well as an ominous prophecy for what would happen to women in the music business. The movie is a great watch for a new perspective on rock and roll.

13. Control (2007)

Control is a rock and roll movie that came out in 2007
Control is a rock and roll movie that came out in 2007 ( Source : instagram )

The film is a superb picture of a musically talented person at a fleeting but dramatic juncture in his life—the point of no return. Excellent casting. Clearly an exceptional director. Control does a superb job of setting the stage for Ian Curtis and Joy Division's meteoric journey to popularity.

Sam Riley does a wonderful job of conveying Ian and his substantial struggles in the few films of the actual band (epilepsy and others). This is absolutely worth a look since interest in Joy Division comes in waves, and it appears that one is beginning to form.

This movie has a lot of turning points in the plot and the fans will never get bored watching it. Rock and roll fans will enjoy the watch and it is definitely a must.

12. Gimme Shelter (1970)

Gimme Shelter showcases the renowned Mick Jagger's talents in the music industry
Gimme Shelter showcases the renowned Mick Jagger's talents in the music industry ( Source : instagram )

The movie depicts the illogical social phenomena of American popularity, which invariably causes people to act out of character and, for the most part, feel completely justified in doing so. When "direct cinema" pioneers Robert Drew, Richard Leacock, D.A. Pennebaker, Frederick Wiseman, and the Maysles brothers were at the height of their productive careers, this film represents the artistic zenith of that period in American documentary filmmaking.

Cinematically, the movie focuses on Mick Jagger's magnetic presence, which, together with that of Tina Turner, David Bowie, Santana, and Sly & the Family Stone, represented the spirit of the time. The documentary was originally intended to record the Rolling Stones' 1969 American tour, but it ended up becoming something completely different. 

Amazingly, the Maysles seemed to have anticipated every aspect of "Gimme Shelter," including the flawed idea, the cult of fame, the lack of preparation, the subpar LSD trips, and, most importantly, the extreme violence that resulted in murder.

11. American Graffiti (1973)

American Graffiti is also one of the greatest rock and roll movie to exist
American Graffiti is also one of the greatest rock and roll movie to exist ( Source : instagram )

The fact that it has already established itself as one of the all-time best American classic films ensures that it will always be such. This movie has such a classic feel thanks to Haskell Wexler. It is impossible to overstate his impact. The visuals in this movie are breathtaking.

Despite the fact that the film has a bit of a free-for-all vibe, the ensemble falls so beautifully together. This movie is a masterpiece and a snapshot of Americana in the early 1960s.

It wasn't chosen as one of the Top 100 Films of All Time by the American Film Institute for nothing. "Capture the heart of America's last period of innocence with American Graffiti," is what the DVD box's jacket consists of.

American pop culture with an outstanding balance of plot and performances, showing some of our greatest stars. Before Star Wars, George Lucus was at his finest. Francis Ford produced the film, while Wolf-man Jack provided the fantastic music. Overall an amazing movie all rock and roll fans should check out.

10. Wayne’s World (1992)

Wayne’s World will forever be a classic in the books of Rock and Roll
Wayne’s World will forever be a classic in the books of Rock and Roll ( Source : instagram )

To be honest, this movie is very fantastic; it might drag at times, but the humor is spot-on. It doesn't attempt to be profound or thought-provoking. But it in no way implies that it isn't totally hilarious.

Two closest friends and their TV program are the subjects of a humorous comedy that benefits from self-awareness, satires, surprisingly good joke execution, and simply all-around entertaining humor. It's just a lovely compilation of endearing drawings with likable characters hanging out and rocking out.

If you are looking for something lighthearted and to kill time, this movie is for you. The cast is great and the storyline is also very good. The movie is very fun with great comedy and a good plot.

9. Dazed and Confused (1993)

Dazed and Confused is a great rock and roll movie
Dazed and Confused is a great rock and roll movie ( Source : instagram )

Dazed and Confused is a funny, affectionate, and expertly crafted coming-of-age drama that covers the adventures of various groups of teenagers on their last day of school in the summer of 1976. 

Richard Linklater wrote and directed this picture, which has no narrative and is only a reflection of the period and culture he himself grew up in. It is his dedication to those wonderful years that most people end up cherishing for the rest of their lives. 

Every moment is painstakingly caught, owing to its fluid camerawork. It's all cut too beautifully to keep the idea alive & kicking all the time. Even more impressive is Linklater's selection of music for the surrounding sequences, and among its talented cast, Matthew McConaughey & Jason London end up making the biggest impressions.

8. The Blues Brothers (1980)

For all the rock and roll fans, The Blues Brothers is a great watch
For all the rock and roll fans, The Blues Brothers is a great watch ( Source : instagram )

The movie is enjoyable to watch. A highly amusing and enjoyable movie resulted from John Landis' direction, John Belushi, and Dan Aykroyd as Jake and Elwood Blues, respectively.

To prevent the authorities from taking over the orphanage where they were raised, Jake and Elwood must gather $5000. They make the decision to reform their band to achieve this.

They set off on the road searching locations to have fun and earn money. Shouting, "we're on a mission from God" at all times.

The narrative has several intriguing turns that make the movie even more entertaining. Every music savvy would appreciate the inclusion of renowned blues musicians like Ray Charles and John Lee Hooker in the film. This movie is hilarious, full of exciting action and adventure, compelling storytelling, and fantastic music.

The Blues Brothers is a fantastic film that deserves a spot on this list of the best 80s films ever made. With the help of this movie, you can escape from reality a little bit.

7. High Fidelity (2000)

Another rock and roll classic, High Fidelity
Another rock and roll classic, High Fidelity ( Source : instagram )

A comedy about actual people with actual lives, "High Fidelity" is natural, whimsical, eccentric, and obsessive in its own way. The movie appears to have been simple to film, but since comedies, this sardonic and endearing are so uncommon.

Typically, a convoluted narrative gets in the way, or the directors are reluctant to make their characters look too intelligent. Rob, played by John Cusack, is a Chicago-based used-record store owner who recently ended his relationship with Laura.

He lists the top five girlfriends he has broken up with while still in pain, laughing because Laura didn't make a list. 

High Fidelity introduces us to Rob and makes us hope that he finds happiness. It also has no deep significance, doesn't get frustrated over silly plot points, savors the rhythms of these lives, and shows how pop music is a soundtrack for everyone's autobiography.

As a result, we leave the theater feeling quite unreasonably happy—a great watch for all rock and roll lovers.

6. Stop Making Sense (1984)

Stop Making Sense is also one of the greatest rock and roll movies to exist
Stop Making Sense is also one of the greatest rock and roll movies to exist ( Source : instagram )

The greatest concert movie, ever. The usage of close-ups provides such a personal viewpoint without causing us to lose our position in the overall picture.

The crowd would likely find the staging and lighting to be attractive, but it has been expertly edited and directed to offer us the greatest seat in the house.

Captures the upbeat enthusiasm of this band. Regarding the film itself, it was not shot in a manner similar to any other concert movie you may have seen.

The stage was gradually built up from a completely empty start, which was entertaining to see and allowed the performers to shine, but this isn't the only thing that changed. 

Some of the band members sing or play various instruments, demonstrating how versatile and great they are. This movie is a must-recommended movie to watch for all fans.

5. The Graduate (1967)

The Graduate was released in 1967 is still one of the greatest rock and roll movies
The Graduate was released in 1967 is still one of the greatest rock and roll movies ( Source : instagram )

The Graduate is one of the greatest comedy films of all time. The movie is a masterpiece of cinematic art and has cultural significance. Dustin Hoffman and director Mike Nichols both rose to the top of Hollywood's A-List thanks to the movie.

This movie is considered a classic among baby boomers because it captures the fast cultural transformation that happened in suburban America in the middle of the 1960s, complete with post-college disappointment, reflection, anguish, and disorientation.

Baby boomers had quite different perspectives than their parents from the Greatest Generation, and Nichols successfully incorporated the ensuing "generation gap" in a way that no other movie has done before.

The top 10 best comedies and all-time favorite movie lists have both included this as Mike Nichols' finest and most significant cinematic accomplishment. If slapstick were to be considered a distinct genre, this movie would be a part of it.

4. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a great vintage classic
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a great vintage classic ( Source : instagram )

One of the finest works of art produced up to this point is this film, The Rocky Horror Picture Show. A genuinely remarkable experience that defies convention is produced by the peppy music, pure campy atmosphere, and excellent cast.

Horror, love, aliens, brutality, and the one thing Hollywood was never able to develop further "sex" and its lack of boundaries were all masterfully put together to captivate young viewers in its age.

This film explores the depths of desire via fun and creativity with its unquestionably skilled cast, masterfully composed music, and stunning camera angles. It's a lucid nightmare that you don't want to end.

The choices of music in the movie are also to die for. The movie also plays tricks on you and you will have to put your own interpretation in some places—all in all, a great watch for every rock and roll fan.

3. Almost Famous (2000)

Almost Famous came out in early 2000s
Almost Famous came out in early 2000s ( Source : instagram )

The film's star, Patrick Fugit, plays a young man with journalistic aspirations in the 1970s who launches a writing campaign to get a job while hiding the fact that he is still a minor.

This strategy helps him land a job as a writer for Rolling Stone magazine and a lengthy embedding with the rising band Stillwater.

The film is based on actual events in the life of the producer, director, and writer who would go on to win the Oscar for original screenplay. A well-made movie that follows 15-year-old would-be journalist William Miller as he tours with the up-and-coming rock band "Stillwater" with the help of groupies.

The music has survived the extroverted, popular culture of the 1970s, a byproduct of its era. 

The movie is a refreshing watch for anyone trying to watch a movie with a good plot and good storyline. The film will keep you glued to your seats.

2. This Is Spinal Tap (1984)

This Is Spinal Tap is another one of the bangers in rock and roll movies
This Is Spinal Tap is another one of the bangers in rock and roll movies ( Source : instagram )

One of the funniest movies ever created, This Is Spinal Tap, is about many things, but one of them lies in how the true narrative is outside the frame.

The movie tells two stories: one about what the rock band Spinal Tap wants, fears, or thinks is about to happen, and the other about what really does.

Because of how endearingly innocent and upbeat its members are, we have a strong fondness for them. They continue to play long after their sell-by date, before dwindling audiences, for decreasing sums of money, intoxicated by the pure joy of being rock stars.

This Is Spinal Tap is a comedy classic that was expertly directed, superbly performed, and filled with gags that can be repeated forever. 

1. Purple Rain (1984)

Purple Rain is a movie focused on Prince's career as a rock and roll artist
Purple Rain is a movie focused on Prince's career as a rock and roll artist ( Source : instagram )

Purple Rain is a musical movie in the real, complete, and rich sense; it is a movie about music.

 It features the same spacing out of peaks and lows, the same opening teases to scenes as to songs, and the same accumulative balance of lyric ballads and raucous showstoppers, all familiar characteristics of any stadium rock concert transposed to a level of dramaturgy.

All song performances depict extremely specific incidents, typically heated interpersonal conflicts. Each musical gesture and style used in the movie represents a particular way of living.

The movie is forever a classic to all rock and roll lovers, and for everyone wanting to watch a good movie with a great plotline, this movie is the go-to.

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