Musicals have always had a special way of connecting with audiences, combining the emotional power of storytelling with the magic of song and dance. In the past decade, the genre has seen a creative resurgence, delivering unforgettable performances, powerful themes, and innovative narratives. From big-screen adaptations to bold original creations, these are the top 10 best modern musicals that have defined a new era of musical cinema.

1. La La Land (2016)

Damien Chazelle’s La La Land is a love letter to Hollywood’s golden age and the dreams that drive us. Starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, the film follows the bittersweet romance between an aspiring actress and a jazz musician. Its vibrant cinematography, toe-tapping score, and emotional finale cemented it as an instant classic.

The film won six Oscars, including Best Director, and its songs like “City of Stars” and “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” have become modern standards.

2. Hamilton (2020)

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking Broadway musical Hamilton found a new audience when it debuted as a filmed stage production on Disney+. Telling the story of Alexander Hamilton through a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical theater, Hamilton redefined what a modern musical could be.

The streaming release captured the electric energy of the original cast and became an immediate cultural phenomenon, introducing Miranda’s genius to millions worldwide.

3. Encanto (2021)

Disney’s Encanto brought the magic of Colombian culture to life with its vibrant animation and unforgettable songs. Featuring music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the film tells the story of the Madrigal family, each member gifted with a unique magical ability—except for protagonist Mirabel.

“Dos Oruguitas” was nominated for an Oscar, while “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” became a viral sensation, cementing Encanto as one of Disney’s most beloved modern musicals.

4. Tick, Tick... Boom! (2021)

Directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tick, Tick... Boom! is a semi-autobiographical musical about Jonathan Larson, the creator of Rent. Starring Andrew Garfield, the film explores the struggles of a young composer balancing his artistic dreams with the realities of life. Garfield’s performance, both heartfelt and energetic, earned him an Oscar nomination, while the film itself resonated with anyone who has ever chased a creative dream.

5. In the Heights (2021)

Before Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote In the Heights, a celebration of the vibrant Washington Heights community. The film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu, brought this story of love, family, and ambition to life with dazzling choreography and infectious music.

The song “96,000” stands out as a highlight, blending hip-hop and salsa with breathtaking visuals. In the Heights captures the joy and heart of its source material while addressing timely themes of identity and belonging.

6. The Greatest Showman (2017)

Starring Hugh Jackman as P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is a larger-than-life spectacle that celebrates the power of imagination and the beauty of individuality. With its energetic soundtrack featuring songs like “This Is Me” and “A Million Dreams,” the film became a global sensation despite initial mixed reviews.

Its message of inclusivity and hope struck a chord with audiences, ensuring its legacy as a feel-good musical for the ages.

7. Dear Evan Hansen (2021)

Adapted from the Tony Award-winning Broadway show, Dear Evan Hansen tells the story of a socially anxious high schooler who becomes entangled in a lie following a tragic event. Ben Platt reprises his role as Evan, delivering a heartfelt performance that anchors the film.

Though it received mixed reviews, the film’s emotional core and powerful songs like “Waving Through a Window” still resonate with fans of the stage production.

8. Frozen II (2019)

The sequel to Disney’s smash hit Frozen, Frozen II deepens the story of Elsa and Anna as they embark on a journey to uncover the truth about their family’s past. With songs like “Into the Unknown” and “Show Yourself,” the film captures the same magic that made the original a cultural phenomenon.

Its themes of self-discovery and resilience struck a chord with audiences, solidifying Frozen II as a standout animated musical.

9. A Star is Born (2018)

Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut, A Star is Born, reimagines the classic tale of love, fame, and tragedy. Lady Gaga delivers a show-stopping performance as Ally, a singer-songwriter whose rise to stardom is intertwined with her mentor’s struggles with addiction.

The film’s soundtrack, particularly the Oscar-winning song “Shallow,” became a cultural touchstone, earning the film widespread acclaim and multiple awards.

10. Barbie (2023)

While Barbie isn’t a traditional musical, its musical moments have earned it a place among the year’s most celebrated films. Directed by Greta Gerwig, Barbie uses humor, heart, and music to explore themes of identity, gender roles, and self-acceptance.

With standout performances by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling (whose ballad “I’m Just Ken” became an instant hit), Barbie combines comedy, drama, and song in a way that feels fresh and modern.