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30 Essential Music and Performance Films You Need to See

30 titles

Music has a unique power to evoke emotions and create unforgettable memories. These three dozen films from 2011 celebrate the melodies, rhythms, and stories that make music so indispensable in our lives. From rock legends like Pink Floyd and Ozzy Osbourne to documentaries showcasing the journeys of A Tribe Called Quest and Nirvana, these top movies pay homage to the powerful influence of music on culture and society. So sit back, press play, and prepare for a melodic adventure through some of 2011's most memorable tunes.

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 1You InsteadMovie · 2011 · 80m · Music, Romance, ComedyRival rock stars find themselves unexpectedly handcuffed together for a full day at a music festival. Both are scheduled to headline, creating a chaotic situation as they're forced to navigate the event as a pair.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5
  2. 2Beat the WorldMovie · 2011 · 91m · Music, DramaThree dance teams – representing Latin America, Europe, and Canada – train for the International Beat the World competition in Detroit. They face challenges with gambling debts, relationship problems, and personal pride. In the final competition for the world title, they discover their aspirations, dreams, and futures are all on the line.IMDb 4.3TMDB 5.3
  3. 3Violeta Went to HeavenMovie · 2011 · 110m · Drama, MusicThis film explores the life and work of Violeta Parra, the celebrated Chilean singer-songwriter and folklorist, through her music, personal reflections, relationships, and ambitions. It portrays both her successes and challenges, revealing Parra's artistic journey as she worked to protect and update traditional Chilean folk music while navigating a male-dominated music scene in 20th-century Latin America. The film showcases her passion, vulnerability, and strength, allowing viewers to understand Violeta through her lyrics and deeply emotional melodies.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  4. 4Suck SeedMovie · 2011 · 130m · Comedy, Music, RomanceWhen Ped's childhood crush, Ern, comes back into town, he and his friend start a band to win her over. But things get complicated when the gifted Ern joins the band, sparking romantic competition.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0
  5. 5Pink Floyd: Behind the WallMovie · 2011 · 80m · Documentary, MusicThis documentary examines the creation, planning, and live performances of Pink Floyd's *The Wall* in 1980 and 1981. It includes detailed interviews from the 1980s with Roger Waters, David Gilmour, Richard Wright, and Nick Mason, alongside footage of *The Wall* concerts at Earl's Court in 1980. The film also features archival footage of Pink Floyd during the Syd Barrett era and explores how David Gilmour joined the band to support their live shows when Barrett's drug problems made him unreliable, eventually taking his place.IMDb 6.4TMDB 8.1
  6. 6The Other F WordMovie · 2011 · 98m · Music, Documentary, DramaThe Other F Word explores the unexpected transition when a generation of anti-establishment punk rockers become fathers. Featuring appearances from Mark Hoppus of Blink-182, Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Tim McIlrath of Rise Against, the film follows Jim Lindberg, the long-time singer of skate punk band Pennywise, as he navigates the humorous and heartfelt journey from singing about rebellion in songs like "Fuck Authority" to embracing the defining role of fatherhood in his 40s.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.4
  7. 7Scenes from the SuburbsMovie · 2011 · 29m · Drama, MusicIn a bleak, suburban future, a man struggles to piece together his past. He attempts to reconstruct his memories from his teenage years.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
  8. 8Nirvana: Live at the ParamountMovie · 2011 · 71m · Music*Live at the Paramount* documents a key moment in rock history: Nirvana's Halloween 1991 concert in Seattle. This concert film is unique because it's the only known recording of the band captured on 16mm film. The documentary footage takes viewers back to the height of grunge, with Nirvana at the forefront. Released to mark the 20th anniversary of their influential album, this film provides fans with an intimate look at the raw energy and power of Nirvana's live shows.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1
  9. 9Hit Man Returns - David Foster & FriendsMovie · 2011 · 120m · MusicHitman Returns was filmed before a sold-out audience at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas last year. The event featured a lineup of performers led by Foster as host, including Seal, Donna Summer, Martina McBride, Earth, Wind & Fire, Natalie Cole, Ruben Studdard, All-4-One, 'Glee' star Charice, Chaka Khan, Jackie Evancho, and Lara Fabian – artists whose careers have been influenced by Foster, a 15-time Grammy-winning producer and songwriter.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.6
  10. 10Beats Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called QuestMovie · 2011 · 97m · Music, DocumentaryFor twenty years, A Tribe Called Quest, a highly influential hip hop group from Queens, New York, has captivated fans with their innovative music. Even after their widely reported breakup in 1998, a new generation eagerly awaits their return. Michael Rapaport follows the band, revealing the inner dynamics and drama that have shaped their journey to the present day. He examines the future of the group, considered by many to be pioneers of alternative rap.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2
  11. 11God Bless Ozzy OsbourneMovie · 2011 · 94m · Documentary, MusicUsing newly discovered archival footage and interviews with Paul McCartney, Tommy Lee, and others, *God Bless Ozzy Osbourne* is the first documentary to offer an intimate look at the multifaceted personality of a legendary rock figure.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.9
  12. 12BelovedMovie · 2011 · 139m · Drama, Romance, MusicIn 1960s Paris and early 21st-century London, Madeleine and her daughter Véra chase romance, embracing life's possibilities. However, their relationships bring unexpected challenges and heartbreak. As years pass, love proves increasingly complex.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1
  13. 13White: Melody of DeathMovie · 2011 · 106m · Horror, Music, MysteryWhen each member of the popular girl group Pink Dolls suffers a series of terrible accidents, Eun-ju suspects their hit song "White" is cursed and tries to uncover the truth behind it.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.2
  14. 14Body LanguageMovie · 2011 · 97m · Music, Drama, RomanceAn hour before five of the Netherlands' top dance crews are scheduled to depart for a competition in New York, their government-funded trip is unexpectedly canceled. Determined not to lose their free plane tickets, the five dancers decide to proceed anyway. Arriving in New York, they quickly realize the gravity of their situation: they have no money, no plan, and no team. But with the shared passion for dance, they band together to form a new crew and fight for a chance to compete. Meanwhile, they must navigate two weeks in New York City with no financial resources. By Tijs van Marle.IMDb 4.1TMDB 5.0
  15. 15BloodbrotherzMovie · 2011 · 87m · Drama, Comedy, MusicOtis and Eddie have been inseparable best friends growing up, living life day by day in Berlin, fueled by a shared ambition: music. Their world changes when a record label takes notice, offering them the chance to finally pursue their dream. However, the label's involvement creates complications, pushing their friendship to its limits.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9
  16. 16Thriller NightMovie · 2011 · 6m · Animation, Music, HorrorThis is a comedic take on Michael Jackson's "Thriller," reimagined as a Shrek story. Donkey provides the vocals for the song.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.7
  17. 17Fight for Your Right RevisitedMovie · 2011 · 30m · Music, Comedy*Fight for Your Right Revisited* features Danny McBride, Seth Rogen, and Elijah Wood as the younger Beastie Boys, alongside Jack Black, John C. Reilly, and Will Ferrell as their older selves from the future. The film picks up immediately after the *Fight for Your Right (1987)* music video. It includes music from the Beastie Boys' album *Hot Sauce Committee Part Two*.IMDb 8.0TMDB 6.5
  18. 18Don't Hug Me I'm ScaredMovie · 2012 · 4m · Animation, Comedy, HorrorThis unsettling short film explores the nature of creativity through the use of puppets.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6
  19. 19Pearl Jam TwentyMovie · 2011 · 119m · Documentary, MusicPearl Jam: Twenty is a comprehensive look at the band, assembled from more than 1,200 hours of footage throughout their history. The film combines concert footage with personal moments and reflections, offering a powerful testament to the impact of their music.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8
  20. 20Adele: Live at the Royal Albert HallMovie · 2011 · 100m · MusicIn September 2011, Adele performed at The Royal Albert Hall in London, a significant event during her record-breaking year with the album '21'. It was a highly anticipated and memorable performance for the singer.IMDb 8.6TMDB 8.0
  21. 21Queen: Days of Our LivesMovie · 2011 · 120m · Music, DocumentaryIn 1971, four college students formed a rock band that would become Queen. Over the next four decades, Freddie Mercury, Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon released 26 albums and sold over 300 million records worldwide, and their popularity remains strong. Their journey wasn't easy; they faced challenges but persevered, fueled by brilliant music and captivating live performances around the world. This film is the band's first-hand account of their story, featuring new interviews and previously unseen archive footage, including their first-ever TV performance. It’s a compelling narrative told with intelligence, humor, and honest reflection.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.1
  22. 22Lady Gaga Presents: The Monster Ball Tour at Madison Square GardenMovie · 2011 · 117m · Music, Documentary"Lady Gaga Presents The Monster Ball Tour at Madison Square Garden" is a 2011 concert special capturing Lady Gaga's February 21st and 22nd, 2011 performances of her Monster Ball Tour. The special includes concert footage alongside behind-the-scenes glimpses of the shows and backstage moments.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.6
  23. 23Ray Charles - Live in France 1961Movie · 2011 · 111m · Music, DocumentaryFifty years hidden, these newly found concert films capture Ray Charles at the height of his career during the 1961 Antibes Jazz Festival in France. Featuring Charles with the original Raeletts and his legendary band – including David "Fathead" Newman and Hank Crawford – these performances marked his first concerts in Europe. They launched Ray Charles into becoming one of America's most celebrated international stars.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  24. 24K-On! The MovieMovie · 2011 · 110m · Animation, Family, AdventureAs graduation approaches, the Light Music Club is on the verge of disbanding, with everyone except Azusa moving on. Determined to make the most of their time together, the remaining members embark on a final vacation to London. This trip becomes a journey of friendship and self-discovery, culminating in one last performance as the club.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.9
  25. 25Honey 2Movie · 2011 · 110m · Music, Comedy, DramaFollowing a run-in with the law, Maria returns to her neighborhood in the Bronx to start over. She relies on her street dance skills and a strong desire to succeed as she works to build a new life for herself.IMDb 5.2TMDB 6.3
  26. 26Sharpay's Fabulous AdventureMovie · 2011 · 90m · Family, MusicFollowing a talent scout's discovery of her performance with her dog Boi at a charity event, Sharpay Evans travels to New York City, confident that immediate fame and wealth await. However, the competitive world of theater proves challenging. Fortunately, Sharpay also encounters Peyton, a charming student filmmaker who is equally intrigued by her as she is by him.IMDb 4.8TMDB 6.0
  27. 27The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert HallMovie · 2011 · 160m · Music, Drama, RomanceA disfigured musical genius lives in hiding within the Paris Opera House, manipulating the company for the benefit of a young woman he mentors and loves. The 25th anniversary of the first public performance of *The Phantom of the Opera* was recently celebrated with a large concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London.IMDb 8.8TMDB 8.4
  28. 28La Vie en RoseMovie · 2007 · 140m · Music, DramaEdith Piaf's life was a relentless struggle for survival, encompassing both her passion for singing and her experiences with love, moving from the tough streets of Paris' Belleville neighborhood to the bright lights of New York's biggest concert venues. Raised in a brothel by her grandmother, Piaf was discovered in 1935 by nightclub owner Louis Leplee, who encouraged her to sing despite her crippling shyness. She rose to become a legendary figure in France, her voice a defining sound of the 20th century.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4
  29. 29The MuppetsMovie · 2011 · 103m · Family, Comedy, MusicWhen Kermit the Frog and the Muppets discover their theater is going to be demolished, a kind man named Gary and his puppet brother, Walter, offer assistance. Together, they organize a performance to raise the $10 million needed to save the theater.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7
  30. 30FootlooseMovie · 2011 · 113m · Drama, Music, RomanceRen MacCormack moves from Boston to Bomont, a quiet southern town with a strict rule against loud music and dancing. Ren defies this rule, bringing energy back to the town and developing a relationship with Ariel, the minister's complicated daughter.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.6