Movie musicals continue to populate the box office in 2021 as fans are thrilled by more over-the-top dance numbers and impressive vocals. Of course, plenty of famous films from the genre have eventually made their way to the stage, whether it's on Broadway, the West End, or elsewhere.
There's a number of great films that have yet to be adapted to stage fully though. It's quite shocking that films like La La Land and A Star is Born haven't had their chance to shine on stage, as they certainly have a lot of potential to be a great show.
La La Land (2016)
La La Land is still considered to be one of Damien Chazelle's best films thanks to its gorgeous visuals, brilliant choreography, and memorable songs. The story itself is emotionally charged, so it's easy to see how this could translate to the stage so well.
With a set that could easily be inspired by classic Hollywood, a stage adaptation would certainly pay homage to the movie culture that the film portrays so well. La La Land could really get rejuvenated on Broadway, as new stars would put their own interpretation on the story.
The Greatest Showman (2017)
While Greatest Showman didn't completely connect with critics, it certainly landed with audiences. Sing-along events are still very much on the agenda for the property, but the concept can surely be taken one step further.
The story of P.T. Barnum has actually been told on stage for years. Adding these fantastic songs, alongside incredible circus performers could be the key to the next Broadway hit. There's a huge fanbase available already and audiences would be thrilled by this blockbuster attraction that may be able to sur the film itself if it's able to really nail those core relationships in the story.
Coco (2017)
The fantastical land of the dead is sure to be an expensive set to produce and there are plenty of fantasy elements to consider. Yet, with the right production design, this could be a memorable family show.
Pixar knocked it out of the park considering that Coco was their first-ever musical film. The movie's songs alone have certainly captured the attention of audiences, but if the show could replicate an essence of how enchanting the visuals of the animated hit really are, then it would be gorgeous to watch live.
A Star Is Born (2018)
has been remade time and time again yet seems to only get better with every new iteration. There have been a few small-scale variations of a stage production of some of the earlier films, but no one has tried to interpret the most recent adaptation on a larger stage.
The movie certainly has a lot to offer considering the meaty roles of Jackson and Ally. There are some gorgeously written songs in the new version as well and although the tragedy of the piece is heartbreaking, the story does indeed also boast a lot of heart.
Tangled (2010)
The story of The Lion King finding their way to Broadway, why can't Tangled?
In of its production, it wouldn't be too difficult to bring into the real world. Walt Disney Parks has managed to produce shows that loosely adapt the original film and they are always a lot of fun. Since so many people have such fond memories of the animated feature, it may be time for Rapunzel to let down that golden hair under the bright lights.
Vivo (2021)
Vivo is incredibly recent and may seem impossible to adapt to the stage, considering it focuses on a singing monkey. Yet if The Lion King can be achieved, then why not this Sony Animation Pictures spectacle? The songs themselves feel as if they were made for Broadway.
Link this to a relatively simple arc involving an emotional road trip and all the ingredients are there for a really successful show. It's something the whole family can enjoy and once again allows Lin-Manuel Miranda to boast some of the unique sounds he brings to his work.
Yesterday (2019)
Plenty of Yesterday is still a firm favorite amongst fans. Telling the story of a world without the famous band, one man tries to bring their music back into this new reality with star-making consequences.
The premise is a little ridiculous yet the execution is so heartwarming that it definitely deserves a shot on stage. It's the kind of live production that's going to ensure a lot of sing-alongs, as the music of The Beatles is undeniably brilliant.
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Jingle Jangle is quite a recent addition to the Christmas movie archives but one that has definitely persuaded audiences to revisit it each holiday season. The set design alone would definitely give the creative team a lot of fun concepts to play around with for bringing it to Broadway.
The songs are effortless in their toe-tapping memorability, and the action-adventure elements bring a different edge to the piece. A lot of practical effects would have to be brought in to allow the toys to come to life, but this show could have an even better run on stage than it has on Netflix.
The Muppets (2011)
The Muppets are cinema icons and have produced plenty of films that boast hilarious musical numbers. Yet they haven't made their Broadway debut in the way that might be expected. In fact, The Muppets movie itself would surely be a great place to start.
Knowing the franchise, it may actually go in a different direction with the story and try to give audiences something unique. The Muppets Show could even provide inspiration here, but with Avenue Q enjoying success, perhaps Kermit and the gang need to get back together for a tour.
