21 Movies To Watch If You Loved La La Land
1. Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Cal Weaver is living what seems to be the perfect American Dream. He has a good job, wonderful children, and a beautiful wife, Emily. However, his perfect life takes a turn for the worse when he discovers that Emily has been unfaithful and seeks a divorce. As Cal navigates the unfamiliar waters of the dating world, he meets Jacob Palmer, a self-proclaimed player who decides to help him become successful with the ladies. The movie combines humor, romance, and a touch of drama, making it a delightful watch.
Watch Crazy, Stupid, Love.2. West Side Story (1961)
Set in the rough neighborhoods of Manhattan's Upper West Side, this classic tale of love and rivalry between two gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, takes inspiration from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Tony, a member of the Jets, falls in love with Maria, the sister of the Sharks' leader, leading to an unforgettable story of love and tragedy. The film's memorable songs and breathtaking dance sequences make it a timeless classic.
Watch West Side Story (1961)3. West Side Story (2021)
Steven Spielberg's adaptation of the beloved musical breathes new life into the storied rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks. This version retains the powerful themes of love and social division, making it a contemporary classic for a new generation.
Watch West Side Story (2021)4. Dreamgirls
Following the evolution of a female singing group in the 1960s, Dreamgirls charts their rise to fame while dealing with personal and professional struggles. With powerhouse performances and epic musical numbers, this film captures the essence of ambition and heartache in the music industry.
Watch Dreamgirls5. Moulin Rouge!
A celebration of love and creative inspiration, Moulin Rouge! takes place in Paris's infamous and glamorous nightclub at the turn of the 20th century. A young poet falls passionately in love with the club's star performer, leading to a whirlwind romance marked by spectacular musical performances.
Watch Moulin Rouge!6. Hairspray
Tracy Turnblad, a pleasantly plump teenager, auditions for and wins a spot on Baltimore's most popular dance show, The Corny Collins Show. As she rises to fame, Tracy works to combat racial segregation on the show. Hairspray's infectious energy and sense of humor make it a joy to watch.
Watch Hairspray7. The Artist
Set in Hollywood in 1927, The Artist centers on George Valentin, a silent film star who fears the advent of talking pictures will render him obsolete. He finds a spark with Peppy Miller, a young dancer on the brink of her big break. This black-and-white silent film is a nostalgic homage to old Hollywood.
Watch The Artist8. The Greatest Showman
This musical recounts the story of P.T. Barnum, the American showman who founded the famous traveling circus. Featuring dazzling musical numbers and the irresistible charm of Hugh Jackman, The Greatest Showman is a tribute to the power of dreams and the spectacle of show business.
Watch The Greatest Showman9. (500) Days of Summer
Tom, a greeting-card writer and hopeless romantic, is blindsided when his girlfriend, Summer, abruptly ends their relationship. Through his reflective journey of their 500 days together, Tom rediscovers his passions in life. This film creatively captures the highs and lows of love with humor and poignancy.
Watch (500) Days of Summer10. Begin Again
After being left by her boyfriend, aspiring songwriter Gretta finds new purpose when she crosses paths with Dan, a disillusioned record-label executive. Together, they embark on a journey to create music and heal their wounds. Begin Again is a heartwarming story about second chances and the transformational power of music.
Watch Begin Again11. Once
A vacuum repairman who moonlights as a street musician aspires to his big break. When he meets a Czech immigrant who shares his passion, they collaborate and create music that reflects their budding romance. Once is an emotional tale of love and dreams intertwined with hauntingly beautiful songs.
Watch Once12. Sylvie's Love
In 1950s Harlem, Sylvie meets an aspiring saxophonist in her father’s record shop, sparking an intense romance. Their relationship transcends time, geography, and their careers, illustrating a love story that endures through changing eras.
Watch Sylvie's Love13. Dirty Dancing
Seventeen-year-old Frances "Baby" Houseman is expecting an uneventful summer in the Catskills with her family. However, she unexpectedly falls in love and ends up stepping into the shoes of a professional dancer. Dirty Dancing remains a euphoric celebration of love and dance.
Watch Dirty Dancing14. The Notebook
An epic love story unfolds as an older man reads from a faded notebook to a woman with Alzheimer’s. The narrative recounts the passionate romance between a couple who are separated by World War II but reunite seven years later. The Notebook is a timeless tale of enduring love.
Watch The Notebook15. Whiplash
Under the direction of a relentless instructor, a gifted young drummer pushes himself to the limit in his pursuit of perfection. Whiplash is an intense and riveting portrayal of ambition, dedication, and the high cost of greatness in the world of music.
Watch Whiplash16. Singin' in the Rain
In the glamorous world of 1927 Hollywood, a silent film production company and its cast face the challenges of transitioning to sound. Song, dance, and romance effortlessly blend in this all-time classic that continues to delight audiences with its charm and wit.
Watch Singin' in the Rain17. Casablanca
Set in wartime Casablanca, this legendary film revolves around a cynical American expatriate who reunites with a former lover under unexpected circumstances. Casablanca's iconic lines, unforgettable romance, and compelling storyline make it a masterpiece in cinematic history.
Watch Casablanca18. All That Jazz
Joe Gideon, a successful director and choreographer, is on top of the world professionally, but his obsession with work threatens to destroy his personal life. All That Jazz is a raw and candid portrayal of ambition and the toll it can take on one’s life.
Watch All That Jazz19. A Star Is Born
Seasoned musician Jackson Maine discovers Ally, a struggling artist with immense talent. As Ally's career takes off under Jackson's mentorship, their romantic relationship becomes strained, and Jackson battles his own internal demons. This modern adaptation of the classic tale is a poignant exploration of love and sacrifice in the entertainment industry.
Watch A Star Is Born20. Across the Universe
Jude, a young dockworker from Liverpool, ventures to the U.S. to find his estranged father but ends up engulfed in the social upheaval and anti-war movement of the 1960s. As he falls in love with Lucy, the chaos of the era impacts their lives in profound ways. With striking visuals and a soundtrack featuring The Beatles' hits, this film is a psychedelic journey through love and revolution.
Watch Across the Universe21. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
Nick, still reeling from a breakup, meets Norah at a club where she shows interest in him. The night unfolds into an adventure filled with music, romance, and the search for Norah’s drunken friend. This film captures the exhilarating and unpredictable nature of love and youth.
Watch Nick and Norah's Infinite PlaylistWhether you’re looking for sweeping romances, musical magic, or tales of ambition, these 21 films are sure to satisfy your La La Land cravings. Each of these movies offers a unique blend of emotions and artistry, keeping your heart and mind thoroughly entertained. So, grab some popcorn and lose yourself in the world of love, music, and dreams!