Best-Reviewed Musical/Music Films 2015

Critics Consensus: As unconventional and unwieldy as the life and legacy it honors, Love & Mercy should prove moving for Brian Wilson fans while still satisfying neophytes.

Synopsis: In the late 1960s, the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson stops touring, produces "Pet Sounds" and begins to lose his grip on reality. By the 1980s,... View Full Synopsis

Starring: John Cusack, Paul Dano, Elizabeth Banks, Paul Giamatti

Directed By: Bill Pohlad

Critics Consensus: Straight Outta Compton is a biopic that's built to last, thanks to F. Gary Gray's confident direction and engaging performances from a solid cast.

Synopsis: In 1988, a groundbreaking new group revolutionizes music and pop culture, changing and influencing hip-hop forever. N.W.A's first studio album, "Straight Outta Compton," stirs controversy... View Full Synopsis

Starring: O'Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Neil Brown Jr.

Directed By: F. Gary Gray

Critics Consensus: Thanks to Al Pacino's stirring central performance - and excellent work from an esteemed supporting cast -- Danny Collins manages to overcome its more predictable and heavy-handed moments to deliver a heartfelt tale of redemption.

Synopsis: An aging rocker (Al Pacino) decides to change the course of his life after receiving a long-undelivered letter from the late John Lennon.

Starring: Al Pacino, Annette Bening, Jennifer Garner, Bobby Cannavale

Directed By: Dan Fogelman

Critics Consensus: Pitch Perfect 2 sings in sweet comedic harmony, even if it doesn't hit quite as many high notes as its predecessor.

Synopsis: It's been three years since the Barden Bellas became the first all-female group to win a national title. All seems well until a botched Lincoln... View Full Synopsis

Starring: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Hailee Steinfeld, Brittany Snow

Directed By: Elizabeth Banks

Critics Consensus: The Last Five Years hits a few awkward notes in its transition from stage to screen, but its freshness and sincere charm -- and well-matched stars -- offer their own rewards.

Synopsis: In New York, a struggling actress (Anna Kendrick) and a successful writer (Jeremy Jordan) sing about their failed marriage from two perspectives.

Starring: Anna Kendrick, Jeremy Jordan, Bettina Bresnan, Charly Bivona

Directed By: Richard LaGravenese