Wouldn’t the world be a better place if we all occasionally broke into a spontaneous but somehow choreographed song and dance routine every now and again? If you agree these next ten films are for you.
- Hello Dolly- This movie is most famous for Louis Armstrong’s rendition of the title song and rightfully so but don’t overlook the other fantastic things this film has going for it. Notably, Barbra Streisand and Walter Matthau (still playing an old curmudgeon even in the sixties).
- Hairspray– I’m going two for one on this one as I’m a big fan of the original as well as the modern remake. Although remake isn’t quite right since its based on the musical that was based on the movie. One has Divine and Rikki Lake. The other has John Travolta and Queen Latifa. Both are fantastic.
- Little Shop of Horrors- This is one weird movie. There’s an evil talking plant and Steve Martin plays a sadistic dentist. Oh, and Rick Moranis being his usual adorkable self but this time with a higher body count.
- The Blues Brothers- The best movie soundtrack of all time? Maybe. Carrie Fisher with a flame thrower? Definitely. Infinitely quotable and full of legendary cameos from the likes of Cab Calloway, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles. A must watch.
- Fame- The remake was mediocre, if you want to enjoy Fame you’ve go to go for the 1980 original. This one will have you tapping your feet and itching to do something creative yourself. But it’s not all sunshine and lollipops, this movie deals with some pretty serious themes so be prepared.
- Bye Bye Birdie– Talk about a cast; 60s’ bombshells Janet Leigh and Ann-Margert, the always charming and incredibly talented Dick Van Dyke, and the king of late-night Ed Sullivan himself as … well himself. Nothing but cheerfulness here. Perfect for when you need an afternoon pickup.
- The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Tim Curry is your god. You just don’t know it yet. The most famous cult movie of all-time will awaken things inside you that you didn’t know were there. Fishnet stockings and cannibalism for everyone!
- Funny Girl– Barbra Streisand in her first-ever film role. And she was so good in it they gave her an Oscar first time out. Funny and charming but with real stakes and feelings, this is one of the great American musicals, hell it’s one of the great American films period.
- Easter Parade– Fred Astaire and Judy Garland with a score by Irving Berlin. This is the golden age of Hollywood studio musical on display here.
- The Umbrellas of Cherbourg- I think some people see the title and that the film is French and think it is a more daunting watch than it is. This film has its drama to be sure but there is a wry charm about it as well. A beautiful soaring opera about ordinary people falling in love.