8 "Unforgettable" Movie Musicals To Watch On Netflix Tonight

1. Tick, Tick... Boom!

Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tick, Tick... Boom! is a heartfelt tribute to artistic ambition and anxiety. Based on the autobiographical stage musical by Rent creator Jonathan Larson, the 2021 film stars Andrew Garfield as Jon, a struggling composer who's dealing with the pressure of turning 30 without already achieving his dreams.

Tick, Tick... Boom! has an energy that's infectious, capturing the rush and heartbreak of chasing after a creative career in New York City. Andrew's standout performance is also backed by a talented cast, including Vanessa Hudgens and Judith Light. You can watch it now on Netflix.

2. Emilia Pérez

This Spanish-language musical is bold, visually striking, and not easily categorized. Released in 2024 and directed by Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez follows Rita, portrayed by Zoe Saldaña, a lawyer who's unexpectedly hired to help a cartel boss transition into living as a woman named Emilia.

The film mixes crime drama and identity exploration, all through powerful musical numbers. Zoe's performance earned her an Oscar, and Karla Sofía Gascón and Selena Gomez round out the cast. Despite some controversy over its portrayal of trans issues, Emilia Pérez remains a highly talked-about and unconventional musical that can be streamed on Netflix.

3. Been So Long

Been So Long is a London-set musical romance starring Michaela Coel as Simone, a single mother navigating love, motherhood, and self-preservation. When she meets a charming ex-con during a night out, she's forced to reckon with her guarded heart.

Adapted from Ché Walker's stage musical with music by Arthur Darvill, the 2018 film blends everything from contemporary R&B to more classic Broadway-like tunes. Been So Long is available to watch on Netflix.

4. Sing Street

Set against the backdrop of 1980s Dublin, Sing Street follows a teenager named Conor as he adjusts to a rougher school and forms a band to impress a girl.

Directed by John Carney, the film captures the awkwardness and excitement of youth in a coming-of-age tale that feels relatable. The soundtrack only elevates its impact, featuring original music influenced by Duran Duran and other '80s new wave artists. Sing Street came out in 2016, but you can still stream it today on Netflix.

5. Matilda the Musical

Everyone loves Matilda, and in 2022, we were blessed with a musical adaptation based on Roald Dahl's iconic book. Alisha Weir stars as the brave Matila, who uses her love of reading (and telekinetic powers) to outsmart her neglectful parents and school principal, Miss Trunchbull.

Matilda the Musical is a beautiful mix of energetic choreography, creative production design, and Tim Minchin's catchy songs, all of which deliver a fresh take on the classic story. Watch it solo or with your family on Netflix.

6. Sing

Sing tells the story of Buster Moon, a determined koala who's just trying to save his struggling theater by hosting a singing contest. With a star-studded voice cast, including Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, and Taron Egerton, the 2016 animated musical combines heartfelt storytelling with an eclectic soundtrack.

The songs range from pop hits to classic rock, as each animal contestant brings their own backstory and voice to the stage. Perfect for both kids and adults, you can stream this feel-good film on Netflix.

7. Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga

Finally, fans of Will Ferrell shouldn't sleep on Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga, a parody of the real-life Eurovision Song Contest.

Will and Rachel McAdams star as Lars and Sigrit, an Icelandic singing duo with big dreams. Then, when a twist of fate lands them a spot in the world's largest music competition, they find themselves battling all kinds of mishaps.

The film's original songs range from the heartfelt "Husavik (My Hometown)," which actually earned the movie an Oscar nomination, to more hilarious renditions, such as "Jaja Ding Dong." You can catch the absurd yet sincere Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga on Netflix.

8. Barbie

At first glance, Barbie might not seem like your traditional musical, but with such a stacked soundtrack, it's definitely close enough for us! Directed by Greta Gerwig and released in 2023, the film follows Barbie, played by Margot Robbie, and Ken, depicted by Ryan Gosling, as they leave the seemingly-perfect Barbie Land to navigate the real world.

Music from numerous artists, such as Lizzo, Charli XCX, Billie Eilish, and Dua Lipa, is woven in along the way. Still, it's Ryan Gosling who steals the spotlight with his performance of "I'm Just Ken," which took audiences by storm.

Equally satirical and sincere, Barbie has definitely earned its place on this list and can be streamed on Netflix.