Christmas is one of those times of the year where a lot of people seem to feel a simultaneous and unifying feeling of happiness, thankfulness and magic. Not everyone feels that way around this time of year though. There are some who find Christmas to be a triggering and difficult time of year for a variety of reasons. It can be very difficult and sometimes we need something to cheer our spirits and have a good time that isn’t consumed by a Tide of Yule.
What film genre can cause a sense of fun and whimsy without necessarily containing themes revolving around Christmas? Musicals, of course! They’re cheesy, they’re high octane and can fill an audience with a kind of inspired energy seldom seen in other genres. Time to look at the musicals you can’t afford to miss.
(In the interest of keeping the list from being endless, Disney films have been eliminated.)
A 43-minute, three-part on-line film starring Neil Patrick Harris, Felicia Day, Nathan Fillion and others. The film follows the protagonist, a wannabe villain called Dr Horrible wishing to achieve world domination and yet struggles to make communication with a woman he’s massively attracted to. Joss Whedon is at the helm of this funny yet moving narrative. You’re hooked from start to finish rooting for Doctor Horrible despite his dubious ethics. If you’re a fan of the work of Joss Whedon, this is a must!
Favourite song: ‘My Eyes’
The film that brought us such classic songs such as ‘Time Warp’, ‘Touch-a Touch-a Touch Me’ and ‘Sweet Transvestite’ is not one to scoff at. It may be a cheesy horror B-movie musical but that’s precisely why it should be seen. It brings something quirky and interesting for its time whilst delving into something more deviant than the norm. Tim Curry in suspenders and stockings with a face full of makeup is an image for all to behold.
Favourite song: ‘There’s A Light (Over At The Frankenstein Place)’
This film is far more grand than the titular song. Featuring the multi-talented Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds, this film tells the story of a movie star who has to make the transition from silent films to ‘talking pictures’. The song and dance numbers are wonderfully choreographed and rather spectacular, befitting of the Golden Age of Hollywood. A must for all musical fans.
Favourite song: ‘Good Morning’
Whilst this film received mostly negative reviews and proved to be a box office bomb, this film has generated a cult following and it’s not hard to see why. This film is produced by the same people who produced the Saw movie series and stars talented singers including Anthony Stewart Head, Sarah Brightman and Paul Sorvino. Repo! is almost entirely in song much like a standard opera but the goth rock element really makes it stand out.
Favourite song: ‘Chase the Morning’ (Ed: All of them)
Tim Burton is at his best with this imaginative and interesting film that looks at the world of the living and the world of the dead. The contrast of colours, personalities and songs all work wonderfully together along with the voice talents of Helena Bonham Carter, Johnny Depp, Paul Whitehouse and many others. Danny Elfman composed the score for this 2005 hit and it is one of the best elements of the film.
Favourite song: ‘Remains of the Day’
This 1972 film based on the musical stage production which was based on the book by Christopher Isherwood stars Liza Minnelli, Michael York and Joel Gray. Cabaret is set in Berlin in 1931 whilst Germany was under the Weimar Republic but not far from being ruled by the ominous Nazi party. The mixture of the vibrant Kit-Kat Club, the wonderfully constructed songs and the bluntness of the exploration of sexuality makes for an enjoyable viewing.
Favourite song: ‘Cabaret’
The image of John Belushi and Dan Ackroyd dressed in the black suits, fedoras and shades is iconic in film history. Their ‘mission from God’ to save the Catholic orphanage they grew up in leads to all sorts of adventures, mischief and fun songs with great performances from Cab Calloway, James Brown, Aretha Franklin and many others. This is a hoot and a holler for many who enjoy a good hearty laugh and a sing-a-long.
Favourite song: ‘Minnie The Moocher’
Not many people would’ve imagined a musical would’ve come from the creators of a long-running animated show following the antics of four foul-mouthed boys from the snowy fictional town in Colorado. Yet this thankfull exists! Full of classic South Park humour with some catchy songs, an imaginative narrative and some grade-A bluntness this is a musical film for those who enjoy scathing satire.
Favourite song: ‘La Resistance’