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Best Rock and Roll Biopics of All Time Ranked

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Kevin Mazur.

Rock and Roll musicians always make interesting subjects for biopics, and often win Oscars like in the case of ‘Ray‘ or Bohemian Rhapsody.’

In recent years, we’ve seen the release of biopics about Bob Marley (‘Bob Marley: One Love‘), Amy Winehouse (‘Back to Black‘), Bob Dylan (‘A Complete Unknown‘), and Bruce Springsteen (‘Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere‘), and now we have ‘Michael‘ opening in theaters on April 24th, which stars Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson.
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In honor of the new film, Moviefone is counting down the top 20 Rock and Roll biopics of all time.

NOTE: Since the term “Rock and Roll” can cover several different genres of music, we are only including movies about musical artists who were known for performing popular music within the rock genre, including jazz, blues, country, rap, etc.

Without further ado, let’s begin!

Related Article: Edward Norton and Monica Barbaro Talk Dylan Biopic ‘A Complete Unknown’

20. ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere‘ (2025)

Jeremy Allen White as Bruce Springsteen in 20th Century Studios’ ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere’. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Bruce Springsteen (Jeremy Allen White), a young musician on the cusp of global superstardom, struggles to reconcile the pressures of success with the ghosts of his past.
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19. ‘Bob Marley: One Love‘ (2024)

Kingsley Ben-Adir as “Bob Marley” in ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ from Paramount Pictures.

Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley (Kingsley Ben-Adir) overcomes adversity to become the most famous reggae musician in the world.
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18. ‘Control‘ (2007)

(Left) Sam Riley as Ian Curtis in ‘Control’. Photo: The Weinstein Company.

The story of Joy Division’s lead singer Ian Curtis (Sam Riley), from his schoolboy days in 1973 to his suicide on the eve of the band’s first American tour in 1980.
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17. ‘Miles Ahead‘ (2016)

Don Cheadle as Miles Davis in ‘Miles Ahead’. Photo: Sony Pictures Classics.

An exploration of the life and music of Miles Davis (Don Cheadle).
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16. ‘Jimi: All Is by My Side‘ (2014)

André 3000 as Jimi Hendrix in ‘Jimi: All Is by My Side’. Photo: Darko Entertainment.

A drama based on Jimi Hendrix‘s (André 3000) life as he left New York City for London, where his career took off.
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15. ‘ Michael‘ (2026)

Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’. Photo Credit: Glen Wilson.

Discover the story of Michael Jackson (Jaafar Jackson), one of the most influential artists the world has ever known, and his life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world, highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career.
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14. ‘The Runaways‘ (2010)

(L to R) Alia Shawkat as Robin Robins, Riley Keough as Marie Currie, Scout Taylor-Compton as Lita Ford, Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett, and Dakota Fanning as Cherie Currie in ‘The Runaways’. Photo: Summit Entertainment.

Joan Jett (Kristen Stewart) and Cherie Currie (Dakota Fanning), two rebellious teenagers from Southern California, become the frontwomen for the Runaways — the now-legendary group that paved the way for future generations of female rockers. Under the Svengali-like influence of impresario Kim Fowley (Michael Shannon), the band becomes a huge success.
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13. ‘La Bamba‘ (1987)

Lou Diamond Phillips as Ritchie Valens in ‘La Bamba’. Photo: Columbia Pictures.

Los Angeles teenager Ritchie Valens (Lou Diamond Phillips) becomes an overnight rock ‘n’ roll success in 1958, thanks to a love ballad called “Donna” that he wrote for his girlfriend. But as his star rises, Valens has conflicts with his jealous brother, Bob (Esai Morales), and becomes haunted by a recurring nightmare of a plane crash just as he begins his first national tour alongside Buddy Holly (Marshall Crenshaw).
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12. ‘Get on Up‘ (2014)

Chadwick Boseman as James Brown in ‘Get On Up’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

A chronicle of James Brown‘s (Chadwick Boseman) rise from extreme poverty to become one of the most influential musicians in history.
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11. ‘Ray‘ (2004)

Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles in ‘Ray’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

Born on a sharecropping plantation in Northern Florida, Ray Charles (Jamie Foxx) went blind at seven. Inspired by a fiercely independent mom who insisted he make his own way, He found his calling and his gift behind a piano keyboard. Touring across the Southern musical circuit, the soulful singer gained a reputation and then exploded with worldwide fame when he pioneered coupling gospel and country together.
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10. ‘Sid and Nancy‘ (1986)

(L to R) Gary Oldman as Sid Vicious and Chloe Webb as Nancy Spungen in ‘SId and Nancy’. Photo: Palace Pictures.

January 1978. After their success in England, the punk rock band Sex Pistols venture out on their tour of the southern United States. Temperamental bassist Sid Vicious (Gary Oldman) is forced by his band mates to travel without his troubled girlfriend, Nancy Spungen (Chloe Webb), who will meet him in New York. When the band breaks up and Sid begins his solo career in a hostile city, the turbulent couple definitely falls into the depths of drug addiction.
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9. ‘Love & Mercy‘ (2015)

Paul Dano as Brian Wilson in ‘Love & Mercy’. Photo: Lionsgate.

In the late 1960s, the Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson (Paul Dano and John Cusack) stops touring, produces “Pet Sounds” and begins to lose his grip on reality. By the 1980s, Wilson, under the sway of a controlling therapist, finds a savior in Melinda Ledbetter (Elizabeth Banks).
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8. ‘Rocketman‘ (2019)

Taron Egerton as Elton John in ‘Rocketman’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

The story of Elton John‘s (Taron Egerton) life, from his years as a prodigy at the Royal Academy of Music through his influential and enduring musical partnership with Bernie Taupin (Jamie Bell).
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7. ‘Elvis‘ (2022)

Austin Butler as Elvis in Warner Bros. Pictures’ drama ‘Elvis,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2022 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The life story of Elvis Presley (Austin Butler) as seen through the complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks).
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6. ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It‘ (1993)

Angela Bassett as Tina Turner in ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’. Photo: Touchstone Pictures.

Singer Tina Turner (Angela Bassett) rises to stardom while mustering the courage to break free from her abusive husband Ike (Laurence Fishburne).
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5. ‘I’m Not There‘ (2007)

Cate Blanchett as Jude Quinn in ‘I’m Not There’. Photo: The Weinstein Company.

Six actors (Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, Marcus Carl Franklin, Richard Gere, Heath Ledger, and Ben Whishaw) portray six personas of music legend Bob Dylan in scenes depicting various stages of his life, chronicling his rise from unknown folksinger to international icon and revealing how Dylan constantly reinvented himself.
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4. ‘Walk the Line‘ (2005)

(L to R) Reese Witherspoon as June Carter and Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash in ‘Walk the Line’.

A chronicle of country music legend Johnny Cash‘s (Joaquin Phoenix) life, from his early days on an Arkansas cotton farm to his rise to fame with Sun Records in Memphis, where he recorded alongside Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins.
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3. ‘The Doors‘ (1991)

Val Kilmer as Jim Morrison in ‘The Doors’. Photo: Tri-Star Pictures.

The story of the famous and influential 1960s rock band and its lead singer and composer, Jim Morrison (Val Kilmer).
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2. ‘Straight Outta Compton‘ (2015)

O’Shea Jackson Jr. as O’Shea “Ice Cube” Jackson Sr. in ‘Straight Outta Compton’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

In 1987, five young men, using brutally honest rhymes and hardcore beats, put their frustration and anger about life in the most dangerous place in America into the most powerful weapon they had: their music. Starring O’Shea Jackson Jr. as O’Shea “Ice Cube” Jackson, Corey Hawkins as Andre “Dr. Dre” Young, and Jason Mitchell as Eric “Eazy-E” Wright.
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1. ‘A Complete Unknown‘ (2024)

Timothée Chalamet in ‘A Complete Unkown’. Photo by Macall Polay, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2024 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

Set in the influential New York music scene of the early 60s, ‘A Complete Unknown’ follows 19-year-old Minnesota musician Bob Dylan‘s (Timothée Chalamet) meteoric rise as a folk singer to concert halls and the top of the charts – his songs and mystique becoming a worldwide sensation – culminating in his groundbreaking electric rock and roll performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965.
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April 24, 2026
Taron Egerton Talks ‘Black Bird’

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Premiering on Apple TV+ beginning July 8th is the new six-part miniseries entitled ‘Black Bird,’ which is based on the book “In With The Devil: A Fallen Hero, A Serial Killer, and A Dangerous Bargain for Redemption’ by author James Keene.

Created by novelist Dennis Lehane (‘Mystic River’), the series follows James Keene (Taron Egerton), who is sentenced to 10 years in a minimum-security prison but cuts a deal with the FBI to befriend a suspected serial killer for an early release. Now, Keene has to elicit a confession from Larry Hall (Paul Walter Hauser) to find the bodies of as many as eighteen women.

The series also features Greg Kinnear, Sepideh Moafi, and the late Ray Liotta.

Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Taron Egerton about his work on ‘Black Bird.’

Taron Egerton in “Black Bird,” premiering globally July 8, 2022 on Apple TV+.

You can read our full interview with Taron Egerton below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Egerton, Greg Kinnear, Sepideh Moafi, and Dennis Lehane.

Moviefone: To begin with, were you aware of the true story the series is based on before shooting, and what was your initial reaction to the screenplay?

Taron Egerton: I was aware of the story actually, but only in relation to the prospect of me playing it. I think there’ve been conversations between the producers, especially Bradley Thomas, and one of my representatives in the couple of years in the run up to me being offered it.

It’s just an undeniably great bit of writing. Of course, Dennis’ name is enough to peak your interest, because of everything he’s done. When I read it, I was just completely engrossed and compelled, and wanted to know what happened. I also recognized an opportunity for me to do something that I hadn’t really done before with the character.

Taron Egerton and Paul Walter Hauser in “Black Bird,” premiering globally July 8, 2022 on Apple TV+.

MF: Finally, you have played real-life people in the past, most recently as Elton John in ‘Rocketman.’ What type of research do you do when you are playing a real-person, and do you feel a sense of responsibility when you are playing a living person as opposed to a fictional character?

TE: Yes, I do. Of course, you don’t want that person to be unhappy with what you do. But also, my primary responsibility is to the script and to serve the script rather than to serve the person I’m playing. It’s always got to be that I’m playing the character that’s on the page before the person in real life, because those things are different. Personally, I feel that we get a little bit preoccupied with the idea of factual accuracy, or a carbon copy of playing someone who’s real, because it’s always you. It’s always as if you had lived a different life. You can’t really play someone else. You can only bring your own experiences to a role, but it was such an exciting story, ‘Black Bird.’

I suppose I recognized things in the character that were less like me, but also elements of it that I did recognize in myself. I just thought it was a brilliant opportunity, to do something that was such a counterpoint to Elton, with his sparkly shoes that are seven inches off the ground, flamboyance and sure charisma. This guy’s much more grounded. He’s hyper masculine, I suppose, whereas Elton was played with the idea of masculinity with what he wore and how he behaved. Yeah, it’s just a joy to be able to do something so different after the Elton John movie, ‘Rocketman.’

Taron Egerton in “Black Bird,” premiering globally July 8, 2022 on Apple TV+.

July 7, 2022
What’s New on Digital, DVD/Blu-ray, TV, & Netflix This Week: August 5-11

Warner Bros.

At a loss for what to watch this week? From new DVDs and Blu-rays, to what’s streaming on Netflix and on good old fashioned television, we’ve got you covered.

NEW ON DVD AND BLU-RAY

‘Pokemon: Detective Pikachu’ (August 6)

Ryan Reynolds voices the wisecracking, mystery-solving Pokemon, who teams up with his former human partner’s son, Tim Goodman (Justice Smith), to find the missing detective. They chase clues through the neon-lit streets of Ryme City, a sprawling metropolis where humans and Pokémon live side by side. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of Pokémon characters and uncover a shocking plot that could destroy the whole Pokémon universe.

The movie arrives on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD on August 6 (and is already available on Digital HD). Bonus content includes an alternate opening and multiple making-of featurettes.

‘Tolkien’ (August 6)

This is a story of adventure, magic, love, courage, and fellowship — the story of J.R.R. Tolkien’s life. The iconic author of “The Hobbit” and “Lord of the Rings” is the subject of this biopic. Nicholas Hoult stars as the young writer in his formative years who finds friendship and artistic inspiration in a close-knit group of friends at college. But their “fellowship” is torn apart when they’re all sent to fight in World War I.

The movie arrives on Blu-ray and DVD on August 6 (and is already available on Digital HD). Bonus content includes deleted scenes and audio commentary.

‘The Curse of La Llorona’ (August 6)

The creepy thriller is the latest in the “Conjuring” franchise. In 1970s Los Angeles, La Llorona is stalking the night — and children. Ignoring the eerie warning of a troubled mother suspected of child endangerment, a social worker (Linda Cardellini) and her own small kids are soon drawn into a frightening supernatural realm. Their only hope to survive La Llorona’s deadly wrath may be a disillusioned priest and the mysticism he practices to keep evil at bay, on the fringes where fear and faith collide

The movie arrives on Blu-ray and DVD on August 6 (and is already available on Digital HD). Bonus content includes deleted scenes making-of featurettes.

‘An Angel at My Table‘ (August 6)

Criterion presents a new high-def digital transfer of acclaimed director Jane Campion‘s 1990 biopic of Janet Frame, New Zealand’s most distinguished author. The harrowing tale features three actors in the lead role as it chronicles Frame’s impoverished and tragic childhood to a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia resulting in electroshock therapy and a narrowly escaped lobotomy to, finally, international literary fame.

‘Penguin Highway’ (August 6)

A sleeper hit both in its native Japan and abroad, “Penguin Highway,” based on the 2010 novel by Tomihiko Morimi, concerns a young boy who sets out to solve the mystery of why penguins start showing up in his small town. This looks very, very adorable.

‘What We Left Behind‘ (August 6)

Do you love “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” the idiosyncratic “Star Trek” series that followed the universally adored “Star Trek: The Next Generation?” If so, you will want to check out this crowd-funded documentary that details the breakthroughs and the nuance of the underrated series.

NEW VIDEO ON DIGITAL, DEMAND, AND STREAMING

‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ (August 6)

The sheer destructive power of the humongous Kaiju is on fully display as their return threatens the world. Seventeen monsters — including Mothra, Rodan, and the three-headed King Ghidorah — cause untold chaos when they rise again to vie for supremacy. Millie Bobby Brown, Vera Farmiga, Ken Watanabe, Kyle Chandler, and their fellow humans fight for survival, but they need some help — from one of those monsters … Godzilla. Available on Digital HD August 6.

‘The Hustle’ (August 6)

Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson are conning some “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” in a remake of the 1988 classic comedy. They play con artists who team up to take down the dirty rotten men who have wronged them. Hathaway takes over the Michael Caine role of the high-class crook with wealthy targets, while Wilson steps into Steve Martin’s shoes as the less-refined, low-rent scammer who wants to move on up to bigger cons.

‘Rocketman’ (August 6)

The music biopic chronicles the life of Reginald Dwight, who would change his name to become the iconic singer Elton John (as portrayed by Taron Egerton). It follows his early days as a prodigy at the Royal Academy of Music through his musical partnership with singer-songwriter Bernie Taupin (Jamie Bell) to his breakthrough in the 1970s and rise to become a music legend.

NEW ON NETFLIX

‘Glow’ Season 3 (August 9)

The Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling in Vegas find themselves in the spotlight as the new headliners at the Fan-Tan Hotel and Casino. Ruth (Alison Brie) is happy to have job and a boyfriend — but something is still missing. And she seems to be wrestling outside the ring with feelings for coach/director Sam Sylvia (Marc Maron). Meanwhile, Debbie (Betty Gilpin) continues to fight her corner as a producer but feels tremendous guilt for leaving behind her son.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQaCxIJX0J0&feature=youtu.be

For more, see what else is new on Netflix in August 2019.

TV WORTH WATCHING

‘Bachelor in Paradise’ Season 6 Premiere, ABC (August 5, 8 p.m.)

Another wild ride of love, lust, betrayal, and heartbreak is in store for members of Bachelor Nation as they begin their journey for another chance at finding their happily ever after. Cannot wait.

‘Bulletproof’ Series Premiere, The CW (August 7, 8 p.m.)

Two undercover cops, Bishop (Noel Clarke) and Pike (Ashley Walters) chase down hardened criminals in London’s East End. Despite their differences, Bishop and Pike work brilliantly together even when the chemistry between them looks set to explode.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQfcXlYUbSA

‘BH90210’ Series Premiere, Fox (August 7, 9 p.m.)

“Beverly Hills, 90210” original cast members Jason Priestley, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, Gabrielle Carteris, Brian Austin Green, Tori Spelling, and Shannen Doherty reunite to play heightened versions of themselves — with a healthy dose of irreverence — as they reunite and consider launching a revival.

‘Succession’ Season 2 Premiere, HBO (August 11, 9 p.m.)

The Roys continue to jockey for power, with patriarch Logan (Brian Cox) still pitting his children against each other. Kendall (Jeremy Strong) is attempting to pick up the pieces of his life, while Shiv (Sarah Snook) seems to put aside her political career to take on a role in the family’s media empire.

August 5, 2019
‘Sherlock Holmes 3’ Taps ‘Rocketman’ Director Dexter Fletcher

Warner Bros.

It’s elementary for “Rocketman” director Dexter Fletcher, who has been hired to helm “Sherlock Holmes 3.”

Variety reports that Fletcher will take over the franchise from Guy Ritchie, who directed 2009’s “Sherlock Holmes” and its follow-up 2011’s “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows.”

A third movie has always been planned, but was put on hold due to star Robert Downey Jr.’s busy schedule in various Marvel movies.

Jude Law is also expected to reprise his role as Watson.

Fletcher famously took over directing “Bohemian Rhapsody” after Bryan Singer left the project mid-production (though he did not receive credit as a director due to DGA rules). His most recent film, the Elton John biopic “Rocketman,” opened in May.

“Sherlock Holmes 3” is slated to hit theaters December 21, 2021.

July 11, 2019
Box Office: ‘Godzilla: King of the Monsters’ Is (Just Barely) King

Warner Bros.

“Godzilla: King of the Monsters” was king of of the box office this weekend, but debuted below expectations. It brought in $49 million, a discouraging start given its $200 million budget.

That’s well behind franchise predecessors, 2014’s “Godzilla” (which debuted with $93 million) and 2017’s “Kong: Skull Island” (which took in $61 million its first weekend). Perhaps next year’s “Godzilla vs. Kong,” which pits the two legendary creatures against each other, will do better.

“King of the Monsters” did much better overseas, with $130 million at the international box office for a global opening weekend of $179 million.

Godzilla fans who liked their monster action as big as possible accounted for $8.1 million of domestic ticket sales via IMAX screens. Audiences gave it a “B+” CinemaScore.

Paramount Pictures

Meanwhile, the well-reviewed Elton John biopic “Rocketman” landed in third place with a $25 million debut. Taron Egerton stars as the Grammy- and Oscar-winning singer in the film, which had a modest $40 million budget.

That’s about half of the $51 million “Bohemian Rhapsody” took in during its opening weekend last year, but the Queen biopic was rated a more audience-friendly PG-13, while “Rocketman” is rated R.

It currently has a 90% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes and an “A-” CinemaScore.

Universal

The horror film “Ma,” which stars Octavia Spencer as a middle-aged woman who befriends — and then terrorizes — the local teens, debuted in fourth place with $18.2 million. The film, which reunites Spencer with “The Help” director Tate Taylor, is Spencer’s first leading role.

Audiences gave it a “B-” CinemaScore, which is one notch about the “C+” they gave last week’s horror debut, “Brightburn,.”

Disney

Meanwhile, last week’s No. 1 film, “Aladdin,” dropped to the No. 2 spot, adding another $42.3 million during its second weekend. It’s now earned $185 million in North America and $260.9 million overseas.

Here are the top 10 estimates for May 31 – June 2, 2019

1 . “Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” $49,025,000
2. “Aladdin” (2019), $42,335,000
3. “Rocketman,” $25,000,000
4. “Ma” (2019), $18,260,000
5. “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum,” $11,100,000
6. “Avengers: Endgame,” $7,813,000
7. “Pokemon Detective Pikachu,” $6,665,000
8. “Booksmart,” $3,328,648
9. “Brightburn,” $2,315,000
10. “The Hustle,” $1,300,000

[Via Variety]

June 2, 2019
Elton John and ‘Rocketman’ Filmmakers Slam Russia’s Cuts of Sex and Drug Scenes

Paramount Pictures

Elton John is not happy that an edited version of “Rocketman” is being shown in Russian, one that reportedly removes all reference to him being gay.

Russian critics have reported that at a Moscow preview of the film, which will be released across Russia next Thursday, at least five minutes had been cut, including a sex scene between Taron Egerton (who plays John) and Richard Madden (who plays his manager, John Reid).

The closing credits had also been amended to drop references to John’s relationship with husband David Furnish.

Anton Dolin, one of Russia’s best-known film critics, said in a Facebook post that “all scenes with kissing and sex between men were cut out.”

Critic Misha Kozyrev also reported that scenes involving drugs had been cut from the film.

In a statement released today, John and the filmmakers said:

“We reject in the strongest possible terms the decision to pander to local laws and censor ‘Rocketman’ for the Russian market, a move we were unaware of until today. Paramount Pictures have been brave and bold partners in allowing us to create a film which is a true representation of Elton’s extraordinary life, warts and all. That the local distributor has edited out certain scenes, denying the audience the opportunity to see the film as it was intended is a sad reflection of the divided world we still live in and how it can still be so cruelly unaccepting of the love between two people. We believe in building bridges and open dialogue, and will continue to push for the breaking down of barriers until all people are heard equally across the world.”

Local distributor, Central Partnership, told news agency TASS that the film had been amended to comply with Russian laws. Russia has strict anti-gay laws that make it illegal to promote “non-traditional sexual relationships” to minors, but since the film has an “over 18 only” classification, additional edits seem unnecessary.

Paramount released its own statement Friday:

We are incredibly proud of the movie that we made, which is told in the way that Elton John wanted his story to be depicted. We are releasing the film in its entirety around the world regardless of rating, but like all studios, we must adhere to local laws and requirements in certain territories in which the film is being shown.”

Russia’s official stance is notoriously anti-gay, but Russian President Vladimir Putin gave the singer mixed praise in 2014, saying, “Elton John is an outstanding person [and] outstanding musician. Millions of our people sincerely love him despite his orientation.”

Both John and Egerton were adamant about keeping in the film’s sex scenes, which are the first gay male sex scenes in a major studio release.

“Some studios wanted to tone down the sex and drugs so the film would get a PG-13 rating. But I just haven’t led a PG-13 rated life,” John wrote in The Guardian before the film’s release.

Egerton knew that wouldn’t play well in Russia, telling GQ UK in April, “I don’t care how well the film does in Russia. It doesn’t matter. It can’t matter. What’s an extra $25 million at the box office? What are you willing to do for that? Sacrifice sleeping at night because you watered the whole thing down?”

“Bohemian Rhapsody,” which depicted the life of another gay music icon, Freddie Mercury, was similarly censored in China.

[Via THR, The Advocate]

May 31, 2019
13 Rock Stars Who Still Deserve a Biopic

Paramount

Hollywood clearly loves its musical biopics. These movies are real crowd-pleasers, combining some of our favorite songs with a satisfying story about artists achieving fame and fortune, hitting rock bottom and bouncing back for the sake of the music. Recent releases like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Rocketman” prove that the rock biopic is as popular as ever. But Hollywood still has a lot of rock stars to get to. Here are 13 more rock icons (including both solo musicians and bands) that still need a good biopic.

Syd Barrett

Harvest

While a general Pink Floyd biopic would be great, we’re especially keen on seeing a movie devoted to the tragic life of original frontman Syd Barrett. The film could focus on the band’s original rise to prominence in the psychedelic era and the struggles Barrett faced as drug abuse exacerbated his mental problems. We’d love to see the film take a crack at replicating Barrett’s live renditions of early Floyd hits like “Interstellar Overdrive.”

David Bowie

RCA

David Bowie was among the most unique voices in rock — a true artist who helped popularize the glam rock genre even as he constantly reinvented himself with every new album. Bowie as legions of fans, but how many of them truly have a sense of the man behind iconic characters like Aladdin Sane, Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke?

Eric Clapton

Reprise

Eric Clapton is one of the true titans of rock, giving us countless hits and even managing to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three separate times. His career has certainly taken many interesting twists and turns. The sad backstory behind his hit song “Tears in Heaven” alone may be a great foundation for a biopic.

Kurt Cobain

DGC

Kurt Cobain will probably always be one of the most fascinating figures in rock. He lived out the quintessential rock star life — achieving massive fame, battling addiction and psychological problems and ultimately flaming out long before his time. The trick is to chronicle his life in a respectful way that doesn’t glamorize or fall victim to the usual tropes. Cobain himself would have hated that more than anyone.

Fleetwood Mac

Warner Bros.

As a group, Fleetwood Mac is responsible for some of the most popular rock albums ever created. But the story behind those albums is almost as fascinating as the music itself. This is a band notorious for behind-the-scenes drama and romantic intrigue. Maybe the time has finally come to explore that drama in the form of a biopic.

Michael Jackson

Epic

Michael Jackson truly earned the title “The King of Pop,” with charisma and dance moves every bit as impressive as his voice. Unfortunately, he was also a very damaged individual, and allegations of sexual abuse continue to swirl even years after his death. Any MJ biopic faces the difficult task of both finding someone to portray an inimitable icon and acknowledging the more unsavory aspects of his life. We’d love to see someone try, though.

Janis Joplin

Columbia

Janis Joplin is a prime biopic candidate for all sorts of reasons. She’s one of the figureheads of the late ’60s rock movement, as well as being one of the first female rock stars ever. She’s also a part of the tragic “27 Club” – artists who died long before their time at the young age of 27. There’s surely a fascinating story to be told about her life and legacy.

Madonna

Sire

As the undisputed Queen of Pop, one of the biggest superstars of the ’80s and the best-selling female recording artist in history, it pretty much goes without saying that Madonna deserves a biopic. She’s led a very interesting life and courted more than her share of controversy. The only question is how to narrow down that life into manageable movie.

Prince

Warner Bros.

Prince Rogers Nelson was a fascinating study in contrasts. He was one of the greatest guitar players in the world and a truly electrifying stage presence, yet he also took great pains to keep his personal life (including his chronic medical issues) behind closed doors. The result being that, like David Bowie, few fans have a good sense of who Prince truly was off the stage. A good biopic could fix that.

The Rolling Stones

Decca

The Rolling Stones have been one of the few constant fixtures on the ever-changing rock scene. They made their reputation during the British Invasion of the 1960’s, and they’ve kept churning out hits in the decades the followed. Members like Mick Jagger and Keith Richards rank among the most colorful and controversial figures in the industry. This is one band that could easily support an entire series of biopics.

Bruce Springsteen

Columbia

Bruce Springsteen appeals to wide swaths of music fans thanks to his strong musicianship and poetic songwriting. His life may not be as marked by controversy as many of his rock star peers, but we still think he’s prime candidate for the biopic treatment. How did he earn his reputation as “The Boss,” and what inspired him to create some of the most enduring works of American music?

Stevie Wonder

Tamia

Stevie Wonder‘s life and career practically call out for a biopic. He was a true child prodigy, establishing his career at the tender age of 11 despite being born blind. In the decades since, Wonder has become one of the biggest stars in the world, raked in countless awards and won over generations with his incredible talent and stage presence. He’s perfect for a feel-good rock biopic.

Frank Zappa

Zappa Records

There was no one else quite like Frank Zappa. This rock star always followed his own muse, creating genre-defying works that might not have always been commercially successful, but won him the admiration of musicians and music lovers the world over. He was also superhumanly prolific, crafting no fewer than 60 albums before his death at 52. That impressive career deserves a biopic.

May 31, 2019
Just How Sparkly are the Stars of ‘Rocketman,’ Anyway?

Paramount

Sure, “Rocketman” chronicles Elton John‘s singing career and personal life. But you can’t hear more than a couple bars of “Crocodile Rock” before imagining something sparkly that Elton wore as he wowed audiences onstage. In the latest episode of The Ms. Moviefone Show, Grae Drake asks Taron Egerton, Bryce Dallas Howard, Richard Madden, and director Dexter Fletcher a series of probing questions which helps her determine which one of the costumes designed by Julian Day best fits their own personality.

“Rocketman” is in theaters May 31!

May 31, 2019
Elton John Keeps Sending Taron Egerton ‘Rocketman’ Reviews

Jimmy Kimmel Live/YouTube

Avoiding “Rocketman” reviews hasn’t been going well for Taron Egerton. The star of the Elton John biopic was recently a guest on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” and he told the late-night show host that the legendary musician keeps sending him reviews.

“I try and avoid reviews, but Elton sends me them every day,” Egerton told Kimmel. “Every day.”

John apparently realizes that he’s been sending a lot of them. Egerton says that the icon’s emails always come with the subject line, “And another one.” The good news for the actor is that John seems to be vetting the reviews; Egerton has only seen positive responses.

“I’m sure there are bad ones that he’s not sending,” Egerton said.

The actor also opened up about what it was like to watch the film alongside John and his longtime writing partner Bernie Taupin, cover John’s songs, film concert scenes, and more. Watch Kimmel’s interview with Egerton’s interview below.

“Rocketman” opens May 31. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” airs weeknights at 11:35 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

May 29, 2019
Taron Egerton Is Emotional When ‘Rocketman’ Gets a Standing Ovation at Cannes Premiere

Paramount

Taron Egerton got more than a little choked up at the enthusiastic reception to the Cannes premiere of “Rocketman.”

The actor, who plays music legend Elton John in the biopic, and the 72-year-old singer himself, were both tearing up when the film received a standing ovation.

https://twitter.com/RaminSetoodeh/status/1129101351714263040

Huge standing O for Taron Egerton at the #Rocketman premiere pic.twitter.com/F5KZrgxSmm

— Tatiana Siegel (@TatianaSiegel27) May 16, 2019

And then both Egerton and Elton dueted at the “Rocketman” after party.

Wow, this was incredible. Taron Egerton performed #Rocketman with Elton John on the piano. #Cannes2019 pic.twitter.com/ceejeiuqaa

— Ramin Setoodeh (@RaminSetoodeh) May 16, 2019

Critics are mostly loving the biopic, which costars “Games of Thrones” alum Richard Madden, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Jamie Bell. It’s directed by Dexter Fletcher, who finished “Bohemian Rhapsody” (uncredited) after Bryan Singer walked off the set of the Queen biopic.

Tweeted Variety’s Anne Thompson: “Dexter Fletcher’s sexy dramatic and poignant ‘Rocketman’ is an ambitious full-on bio musical with 20 songs—’This Is Your Song’ got applause— sung by star Taron Egerton in a breakout performance.” She added that Madden is “swaggeringly hot as Elton John’s manager John Reid, who was also the villain in ‘Bohemian Rhapsody.’ He really would make a great James Bond.”

IndieWire critic Eric Kohn was less impressed, tweeting: “If you were wondering what a great Elton John biopic looks like, don’t hold your breath. But at least ROCKETMAN doesn’t skimp on the music.” In his review, he calls it a “cheesy jukebox musical,” but says it’s better than “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

THR’s Rebecca Keegan said, “Hot damn, Taron Egerton is the real deal… [he] delivers the sweat, grit and vulnerability it needs.”

Elton himself gave it a big thumbs-up, telling THR afterwards, “This has been a very emotional night for me…. Even if the movie doesn’t make one penny at the box office, which will kill [Paramount CEO] Jim Gianopulos, it is the movie I wanted to make.”

If it doesn’t get a slew of awards noms (like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “A Star is Born,”), we’ll be very surprised.

Egerton’s previous films include the “Kingsman” movies and the animated musical “Sing,” in which he performed Elton John’s “I’m Still Standing.”

“Rocketman” opens May 31.

Via People, IndieWire]

May 16, 2019