The Evolution of Live-Action Movie Musicals: Exploring the Top 10 Grossing Films

Musicals have been captivating audiences since the release of the pioneering 1927 film, The Jazz Singer. Over the decades, legendary productions like Singin’ in the Rain and The Sound of Music have not only stood the test of time but also emerged as timeless classics. While animated musicals, especially Disney’s offerings, have dominated the genre, several live-action counterparts have also left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. This article delves into the world of live-action movie musicals, exploring the top 10 highest-grossing films to date.

Table of Contents

1. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (2009)

Worldwide Earnings: $443,140,005

The sequel to the first live-action jukebox comedy, Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, takes audiences on a journey with the world-famous chipmunk trio—voiced by Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, and Jesse McCartney. Navigating through the pressures of school and facing a female music group known as The Chipettes, the trio encounters both challenges and rivals.

Despite mixed critical reviews, with a 21% Tomatometer score on Rotten Tomatoes, Betty Thomas’ film attracted a global box office revenue of $443 million. While it may not have resonated strongly with critics, the film’s creative title and appeal to younger audiences contributed to its commercial success.

2. La La Land (2016)

Worldwide Earnings: $446,092,357

Damien Chazelle’s 2016 masterpiece, La La Land, stands out as a heart-wrenching love story with an astounding score and incredible cinematography. Focusing on the passionate yet complicated bond between Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), the film explores the challenges of prioritizing personal goals and ambitions.

Nominated for multiple Oscars, La La Land provides a magical cinematic experience, grossing over $446 million globally. The film’s incredible sequences and top-notch performances from Stone and Gosling solidify its status as one of Chazelle’s best works.

Release Date: November 29, 2016
Director: Damien Chazelle
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Amiée Conn, Terry Walters, Thom Shelton, Cinda Adams
Runtime: 126 minutes
Genres: Musical, Comedy, Documentary, Drama, Romance

3. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

Worldwide Earnings: $474,968,763

Tim Burton’s 2005 adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, introduces audiences to a young boy (Freddie Highmore) who embarks on a tour of the largest chocolate factory in the world, led by the extraordinary chocolate maker, Willy Wonka (Johnny Depp).

While Burton’s take may not surpass the iconic 1971 adaptation, it offers a solid and entertaining experience. With a worldwide box office revenue of over $474 million, the film’s memorable central performance and quirky charm have made it a comfort watch for many.

Release Date: July 13, 2005
Director: Tim Burton
Cast: Johnny Depp, Freddie Highmore, David Kelly, Helena Bonham Carter, Noah Taylor, Missi Pyle
Runtime: 115 minutes
Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy

4. The Little Mermaid (2023)

Worldwide Earnings: $569,626,289

Released in 2023, The Little Mermaid has made waves as one of the most successful films of the year, grossing over $569 million globally. This Disney remake tells the enchanting tale of a young mermaid (Halle Bailey) who makes a life-altering deal with a sea witch (Melissa McCarthy) to exchange her voice for a pair of human legs.

With charismatic lead performances, especially from Halle Bailey, and captivating underwater scenes, The Little Mermaid offers a fresh take on the classic animated film, making it a hit with audiences worldwide.

Release Date: May 26, 2023
Director: Rob Marshall
Cast: Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem
Runtime: 135 minutes
Genres: Animation, Fantasy, Musical

5. Mamma Mia! (2008)

Worldwide Earnings: $694,478,392

Phylida Lloyd’s Mamma Mia! caters to ABBA fans, following the journey of a bride-to-be (Amanda Seyfried) as she seeks her real father. Despite its flaws, the film’s blend of drama, comedy, and musical genres, coupled with Meryl Streep’s unforgettable performance, propelled it to become the highest-grossing live-action musical film upon its 2008 release.

Release Date: July 2, 2008
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Stellan Skarsgård, Pierce Brosnan, Nancy Baldwin, Colin Firth, Heather Emmanuel
Runtime: 108 minutes
Genres: Comedy, Musical, Romance

6. Bohemian Rhapsody (2018)

Worldwide Earnings: $903,655,259

Bohemian Rhapsody, a biographical film directed by Bryan Singer, explores the life and career of the iconic British rock band Queen and their lead, Freddie Mercury (Rami Malek). Despite mixed reviews, the film’s central performance, costumes, and iconic soundtrack contributed to its global success, earning an impressive $903 million.

Release Date: October 24, 2018
Directors: Bryan Singer, Dexter Fletcher
Cast: Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton, Gwilym Lee, Ben Hardy, Joseph Mazzello, Aidan Gillen
Runtime: 135 minutes
Genres: Drama, Biography, Documentary, History

7. The Jungle Book (2016)

Worldwide Earnings: $966,550,600

Jon Favreau’s live-action adaptation of The Jungle Book takes audiences on a captivating journey with Mowgli (Neel Sethi), a man-cub raised by wolves. Fleeing the threat of the tiger Shere Khan, Mowgli embarks on a self-discovery journey with the help of Bagheera (Ben Kingsley) and Baloo (Bill Murray).

The film’s top-notch digital animation and ensemble cast of talented actors contribute to its success, grossing over $966 million worldwide.

Release Date: April 7, 2016
Director: Jon Favreau
Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba, Bill Murray, Christopher Walken, Lupita Nyong’o, Giancarlo Esposito
Runtime: 105 minutes
Genres: Adventure, Animation, Documentary, Drama, Family, Fantasy

8. Aladdin (2019)

Worldwide Earnings: $1,050,693,953

Guy Ritchie’s 2019 adaptation of Disney’s Aladdin brings the animated classic to life, following the adventures of the titular character (Mena Massoud), Princess Jasmine (Naomi Scott), and the magical genie (Will Smith). While not without its criticisms, the film’s visual appeal, stellar casting, and a remarkable soundtrack contributed to its global success, earning over $1 billion.

Release Date: [Date not provided]
Director: Guy Ritchie
Cast: Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott, Will Smith, Marwan Kenzari
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Musical*

9. Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Worldwide Earnings: $1,266,115,964

Bill Condon’s 2017 adaptation of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, starring Emma Watson, is a tale as old as time. While not surpassing the animated classic, the film gathered over $1.2 billion worldwide. Watson’s performance and Luke Evans’ memorable portrayal of Gaston stand out, despite the film being criticized for its close adherence to the original.

Release Date: [Date not provided]
Director: Bill Condon
Cast: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Kevin Kline
Genres: Family, Fantasy, Musical, Romance*

10. The Lion King (2019)

Worldwide Earnings: $1,656,943,394

Jon Favreau’s 2019 remake of The Lion King roared to success, grossing an impressive $1.65 billion globally. Despite facing criticism for lacking the magic of the original, the film’s stunning visuals and immersive experience drew audiences into the world of Simba (Donald Glover) and Mufasa (James Earl Jones).

Release Date: July 12, 2019
Director: Jon Favreau
Cast: Donald Glover, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, James Earl Jones, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Seth Rogen
Runtime: 65 minutes
Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Animation, Family

In conclusion, these top-grossing live-action movie musicals have not only made significant contributions to the film industry but also continue to enchant audiences with their captivating stories, memorable performances, and, of course, the magic of musical storytelling.

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Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

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