78 Films Featuring Memorable Music

This film reveals the overlooked history of a wave of guerrilla punk and industrial events across Southern California during the Reagan years. These gatherings are now considered the foundational inspiration for festivals like Burning Man, Lollapalooza, and Coachella. Featuring interviews…

St. Vincent wants to make a documentary about her music, aiming to show the real person behind her stage image. However, things get complicated when she asks a close friend to direct. As the film progresses, the line between reality…

This film features interviews with key figures from the pioneering Norwegian black metal bands, exploring the origins of the genre, the notorious Mayhem collective, and the criminal acts associated with the early black metal scene.

This film chronicles the origins of a rock band that emerged from Stockholm in the early 1990s. Led by Nicke Andersson, the group went on to inspire countless music fans globally, becoming both admired by their audience and revered as…

Two-time Academy Award winner Barbara Kopple offers a powerful and inspiring look at contemporary soul singer Sharon Jones. Just as Sharon prepares a new album, she faces a life-changing challenge: a serious cancer diagnosis. This film follows her remarkable year…

This five-part documentary from VBS/Vice Magazine explores various facets of the life of Gaahl, the vocalist renowned for his work with the black metal band Gorgoroth.

Drummer Ruben starts losing his hearing. A doctor warns him it will get worse, making him feel like his career and life are over. His girlfriend Lou sends him to a rehab facility for the deaf, hoping it will prevent…

For devoted fans and those interested in rock history, The Replacements represent the essence of rock and roll. Gorman Bechard's book chronicles the band's journey from their early days as the Impediments to their 1991 breakup in Chicago. Bechard focuses…

A successful pop singer leaves the music industry to forge a new path as a punk rebel, a TV wrestling star, and the driving force behind an all-female band. This fast-paced story about women in rock explores the challenges artists…

BLACK METAL SATANICA is a documentary exploring the history of the Black Metal music genre, focusing on its dark and mystical aspects. Rooted in Scandinavian Viking traditions, Black Metal draws upon ancient Viking melodies, lyrics, and mythology from the 11th…

Bruce Springsteen, a rising musician about to achieve worldwide fame, grapples with the demands of his burgeoning career and the lingering effects of his history.

This is the story of Terri Hooley, a pivotal figure in the punk rock movement of Belfast. Hooley established the Good Vibrations record store, which grew into a record label, and became the champion for bands like The Undertones, Rudi,…

Lou Reed introduces this special, which explores the origins of punk rock in New York and England. It examines the underground punk scenes of the 1970s and 1980s, and the renewed popularity of punk in the 1990s. The program is…

New York, early 1960s. Amidst a lively music scene and significant social change, a mysterious 19-year-old from Minnesota arrives in the West Village with his guitar and groundbreaking musical ability, poised to reshape American music.

Old conflicts resurface when pop icon Mother Mary reconnects with Sam Anselm, her estranged best friend and former costume designer, just before her highly anticipated return to the stage.

Punk music, born from the rebellious spirit of London's 1970s mod scene and evolving through bands like Sonic Youth, has consistently championed attitude and independence. This documentary explores the origins of punk, following its development from pioneering artists such as…

This film uses newly discovered personal footage from over the years to offer a deeply personal look at the Sri Lankan artist and musician who consistently challenges expectations.

A gifted young drummer pushes himself relentlessly under the strict guidance of a demanding instructor. His pursuit of flawless performance leads him down a dangerous path, blurring the line between artistry and self-destruction.

A demanding music teacher relentlessly pushes a promising student to their limits.

"The Sacred Triangle" explores the origins of Ziggy Stardust, one of the most influential pop stars of the 20th century – a question previously tackled by Todd Haynes' film "Velvet Goldmine." The film unfolds like a detective story, examining the…

From Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones to Elvis Presley and Madonna, from John Lennon to Johnny Rotten, Bob Gruen has documented fifty years of music with his camera. In this important documentary series, award-winning filmmaker Don Letts shares the…

This film tells the story of a young boy who, after difficult childhood experiences, discovers an extraordinary talent for playing pinball. These events have left him with psychosomatic deafness, muteness, and blindness, but he compensates with heightened senses and a…

A young band in Sydney struggles for recognition in the cutthroat rock scene. Following a disastrous first performance, the lead singer decides to seek out the nation's top rock manager. Simultaneously, the remaining band members grapple with personal problems that…

Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me is a documentary film that chronicles the band Big Star's initial lack of commercial success, followed by widespread critical praise and their lasting influence as a beloved cult act in pop music.

This story follows a group of Cleveland siblings who form a rock band and face life's challenges together. The film explores family, creativity, and personal growth as the siblings navigate the local music scene. As they pursue their music, they…

This documentary offers an unfiltered look at the European tour of Sonic Youth and Nirvana in late 1991. Director David Markey captures the energy and camaraderie of these iconic bands, along with fellow performers Dinosaur Jr., Babes in Toyland, The…

A newcomer forms a new rock band, and together they pursue their ambitions. They ultimately find themselves competing against top contenders in the year's most significant battle of the bands.

During his final five years, David Bowie broke a nearly decade-long silence to produce two highly influential albums and a musical. *David Bowie: The Last Five Years* examines this surprising resurgence toward the end of an extraordinary career. With exceptional…

This film explores the world of Mick Rock, the photographer who captured the essence of 1970s rock and helped shape the image of many iconic musicians. It offers an intimate look into Rock's creative process and the vibrant, often chaotic,…

Mike Diamond and Adam Horovitz recount the story of their band and their four decades-long friendship in a live documentary directed by their friend, collaborator, and former mentor, Spike Jonze.

A punk rocker fleeing the law and a young woman captivated by a local band find themselves unexpectedly embarking on a sprawling, unforgettable journey through the fading landscapes of the American Midwest's suburbs.

Turn It Around: The Story of East Bay Punk chronicles three decades of punk music in the California Bay Area, highlighting the rise of the influential 924 Gilman Street collective. This varied group of artists, writers, organizers, and musicians fostered…

Reporter Jean Craddock interviews Bad Blake, a washed-up country music star struggling with alcoholism. They form a connection, and the aging singer sees a chance for redemption in a life with Jean and her young son.

Two South Africans travel to the United States to uncover the story of Rodriguez, a little-known rock musician from the 1970s who achieved a surprising level of fame there. They aim to find out what became of him.

Seeking to revitalize their relationship, Ismael and Julie engage in a complex threesome with Alice. Following a sudden tragedy, the young Parisians confront the delicate nature of life and love. Ismael navigates unwanted attention from Julie's sister and a college…

James Bataille is in love and tries to win over the girl with a daring motorcycle stunt. The stunt fails, landing him in prison with a 133-year sentence. He escapes to make an appointment to repair the car of a…

This is the story of Ian Dury, whose life was profoundly shaped by contracting polio as a child. Despite this challenge, he went on to become a key figure in the British punk rock movement of the 1970s, helping to…

The Stooges uniquely blended raw, powerful music with psychedelic sounds, bluesy rhythms, and sharp, angry lyrics. Their charismatic frontman was a distinctive figure, embodying a mix of theatricality and rebellious energy. They were unlike any other band before them, yet…

On the day of Iron Maiden's debut concert in Colombia, two young people living in Bogota are caught up in a whirlwind. Their excitement turns to disappointment when thieves steal their prized possession: the tickets to the show.

"Punk Voyage" is a documentary film chronicling the final years of the Finnish punk band Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät (PKN), from their rise to international fame to their eventual disbandment in December 2016. The film follows the band's seven-year run, during…

Spinal Tap's former band members, who have grown distant from each other, must come back together for a single, final performance. They hope this concert will secure their legendary status in rock history.

Krisu, a 29-year-old feeling adrift, finds solace in her indie band, Wendy and the Refugee Neverland.

Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., is a central figure in Hip-Hop music, celebrated for his unique rapping style and personal songwriting. This film explores his life using previously unseen footage and stories from those who knew him…

In the 1970s and 80s, Jon Mikl Thor was a hard-hitting rock musician known for his impressive physique and powerful performances with his band, Thor. Despite his energy and talent, the band never achieved widespread fame. Years later, he attempts…

Québec, 1952. Alys Robi, a globally famous singer, is forcibly confined by her father. Doctors believe the only way to treat her condition is with a lobotomy. As she's prepared for the surgery, Alys reflects on the past 28 years…

Gretta, an aspiring songwriter, is left heartbroken when her boyfriend Dave leaves her. Her life takes a turn when Dan, a record label executive, discovers her talent.

"I Think We're Alone Now" is a documentary exploring the intense devotion of two people to 80s pop singer Tiffany. Jeff Turner, a 50-year-old from Santa Cruz diagnosed with Asperger's, has been a devoted fan since 1988 and has never…

Corrine Burns is a young woman dealing with the loss of her mother. To cope with her grief, she starts a punk rock band called The Fabulous Stains. The band becomes her outlet for expression and a way to find…

Celebrating the 30th anniversary of punk rock, *Punk's Not Dead* explores the vibrant subculture's enduring presence. The film journeys to underground clubs, informal gatherings, recording studios, retail spaces, and large venues, showcasing where punk music and its associated lifestyle remain…

This is the story of Suzi Quatro, a pioneering American rock singer and songwriter who significantly impacted the role of women in rock 'n' roll when she achieved success in 1973.

In the tough streets of Barrytown, a lively area of north Dublin, young Jimmy Rabbitte wants to make music that will inspire his neighbors. He sets out with energy to form a soul band despite the difficulties of the city.…

Rachel, a spirited teenager growing up in a polygamist community in southern Utah, discovers a forbidden cassette tape on her 15th birthday. Astonished by the unfamiliar rock and roll music, she plays it and soon believes a miracle has taken…

This is the story of Creation Records and Alan McGee, the man who shaped 1990s British music. McGee provided the soundtrack for "Cool Britannia," a decade of cultural change. Starting from nothing, Creation went from small beginnings to high-profile events,…

This documentary examines the rise of music downloading. It follows the young people who pioneered the technology, the musicians and companies whose livelihoods were changed, and the broader effects on society.

"Los Punks: We Are All We Have" is a personal documentary focusing on the teenagers and young adults who discover purpose within the vibrant punk rock community in the neighborhoods of South Central and East Los Angeles.

This is the story of Tower Records, the once-dominant music retailer, and the life of its unconventional founder, Russ Solomon. At its peak, Tower boasted 200 stores across 30 countries, generating $1 billion in revenue by 1999. However, by 2006,…

Kanna, an office worker at a record company, discovers a punk rock band called Shonen Meriken Sakku – also known as the Brass Knuckle Boys – online and decides to represent them for her company. Unbeknownst to Kanna, the band…

This documentary explores the legendary nightclub Max's Kansas City and its pivotal role in the 1970s New York rock scene.

Ten years after they stopped performing as a rock duo, two women reconnect during a single night.

DANNY SAYS is a documentary exploring the remarkable career of Danny Fields. He has been a key figure in music and culture, working with influential artists such as the Doors, the Velvet Underground, the Stooges, MC5, Nico, and the Ramones,…

This film chronicles the life of Neil Bogart, a record producer who co-founded the influential Casablanca Records in the 1970s.

This film explores the origins of the legendary Laurel Canyon music scene in Los Angeles, showcasing the music of influential artists like The Byrds, The Beach Boys, Buffalo Springfield, and The Mamas & the Papas.

'A Hard Day's Night' follows The Beatles through a hectic day in 1964 as they prepare for a television performance. The band faces overwhelming crowds of fans, relentless paparazzi, and even a surprising arrest for Ringo. They use their humor…

This film chronicles the life of musician Michael "Duff" McKagan, known for his work with Guns N' Roses, Velvet Revolver, and Loaded.

British rock legend John Lydon and his former bandmates look back on their time together as Public Image Ltd.

Brian Jones, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and Jim Morrison all died at 27 between 1969 and 1971. The coincidence sparked some discussion then, but the "27 Club" concept gained wider attention after Kurt Cobain's death in the early 2000s, and…

For 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…

During the 1980s, a drummer is left behind when his band achieves rock fame. Two decades later, he gets a new opportunity when he's invited to play with his teenage nephew's high school rock band.

This is the story of Gary Valentine and Alana Kane, and their experiences navigating first love in the San Fernando Valley during 1973. It follows them as they grow up and experience the complexities of young romance.

This documentary film chronicles the complete history of New York's punk movement, from the Velvet Underground's early years and Andy Warhol's influence, through the New York Dolls' rise to power, and the subsequent emergence of bands who embraced the same…

This documentary explores the Synthwave music scene, examining themes of nostalgia and the creation of sound. It's a celebration of human longing and the shared memories of a past that never actually happened.

Despite the many changes in Hollywood, The Rainbow Bar and Grill remains a key spot for genuine rock and roll on the Sunset Strip. Renowned musicians share their memories and stories from this historic venue.

This film is loosely based on the life of Alan Freed, a Cleveland radio DJ who popularized rock and roll for American teenagers in the 1950s. Freed sparked considerable controversy. Conservatives condemned him for corrupting young people with rock and…

Over the last ten years, vinyl records have enjoyed a major comeback, attracting a new generation of diverse fans and changing who we think of as record collectors. This revival has also made music more expensive, favored established artists over…

Sky Arts presents the definitive story of The Jam, a hugely successful British band who were central to the late 1970s punk-mod movement. This documentary, directed by Bob Smeaton, uses exclusive interviews with Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton, and Rick Buckler,…

In the 1980s, Viena, a roadie, tours the American West with the Fantomes, a post-punk band. As the band approaches potential breakthrough success, Viena becomes entangled in a love triangle that challenges her deeply held beliefs.

"Kassandra" is a captivating Venezuelan telenovela from the early 1990s about Kassandra, a gypsy girl who marries into a wealthy family. She doesn't know she is the granddaughter of the family's head. On her wedding night, tragedy occurs when her…