By Olivia Troiano

The past few months have shown a noticeable trend of teasers, trailers, and releases of music related movies. In pop culture, there have been artists who have done movies based on their tours. For instance, we’ve got Justin Bieber’s Never Say Never, Katy Perry: Part of Me, and based on one of the greats, Michael Jackson’s This Is It. The camera would follow the life of the artist on the road and display their performances and biggest hits on stage. And of course, you can’t forget musical movies (a few in recent past including The Greatest Showman and Mama Mia 2). Currently though there has been promotions circling around for films that display the raw life of each artist, as if it’s happening in real-time. In this type of setting actors take on the role of artists in the overlooked moments of their rise to fame. It has become less about the “tour life” but rather their uphill battle to notoriety and success. These movies bring to light the struggling journey of artists and bands as they go through the intensity of the music industry. However, most compelling is that they display the personal hardships in between as these people try to make a name for themselves while also trying to not lose themselves in the process.  

A Star is Born

Although not based on an actual artist or band, this third installment of the film A Star is Born follows the rise of an artist named Ally (played by Lady Gaga) and her love interest Jack (played by Bradley Cooper). Although Ally is deterred from being a singer songwriter, famous artist Jackson Maine who falls for her beauty and talent knows it is her life purpose. From seeing the movie this past weekend, all I can say is that it’s a complete whirlwind. It takes you through the highs and lows of these characters’ musical journey as well as the hard and emotional struggles they face. I think we all knew Lady Gaga could sing, but Bradley Cooper’s singing ability blew everyone away. From his deep and soulful voice to Lady Gaga’s striking performance in her acting debut, the multi-talents of the cast is truly something unbelievable to watch.

Bohemian Rhapsody

As it’s just around the date of its release, coming out November 2nd, the hype for this movie could not be more real. With the buildup of multiple released trailers and snippets of the film, I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t be more psyched. Bohemian Rhapsody will give an inside look on the making of the extravagant music sensation, Queen, and the personal struggles of front man Freddie Mercury, (played by Rami Malek) who’s voice and talent gave the band their mighty appeal despite him facing personal hardships behind the scenes of stardom. This movie is already looking to be powerful to not only Queen fans but people of the lgbt community, with Mercury being one of the first well-known figures of the aids crisis in the 1980’s. Released close to the anniversary date of Freddie’s death, Bohemian Rhapsody will be a must-see event for the masses.

Rocketman

Not even a full trailer has been released for this film but it is set to come out some time in 2019. Although there is not much to say just yet, from what we know and by watching the very short teaser trailer, Rocketman will display the musical life of the great Elton John (played by Taron Egerton). Likely influenced by Elton John’s announcement of his final tour, this film will follow his contributions to the music industry and honor his legacy as a performer.

For Future Films…

There are a multitude of artists and bands who would be incredible acts to honor on film (David Bowie and his legacy possibly in the future?), however from these current films so far, the performances will strike audiences at their core and the portrayal of the life of artists off the stage is a story that will move people beyond the big screen.