Best-Reviewed Musicals/Music Movies 2018

Hollywood may not produce as many traditional musicals as it once did, but that doesn’t mean films largely driven by music aren’t still being made, especially when you consider this year’s best-reviewed films in the category. Bradley Cooper’s acclaimed remake of A Star Is Born had folks talking awards from the moment it premiered, and it leads the pack here.

The order of the rank below reflects the Adjusted Score as of December 31, 2018. Scores might change over time.

#1

A Star Is Born (2018)
90%

#1

Adjusted Score: 120556%

Critics Consensus: With appealing leads, deft direction, and an affecting love story, A Star Is Born is a remake done right -- and a reminder that some stories can be just as effective in the retelling.

Synopsis: Seasoned musician Jackson Maine discovers -- and falls in love with -- struggling artist Ally. She has just about given... [More]

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, Sam Elliott, Andrew Dice Clay

Directed By: Bradley Cooper

#2

Blaze (2018)
95%

#2

Adjusted Score: 99534%

Critics Consensus: As lyrical and bittersweet as the music its subject left behind, Blaze takes a decidedly unconventional -- yet richly rewarding -- approach to the musical biopic.

Synopsis: A reimagining of the life and times of Blaze Foley, the unsung songwriting legend of the Texas Outlaw Music movement.... [More]

Starring: Ben Dickey, Alia Shawkat, Charlie Sexton, Josh Hamilton

Directed By: Ethan Hawke

#3

Hearts Beat Loud (2018)
92%

#3

Adjusted Score: 100473%

Critics Consensus: Thoroughly sweet, comfortably familiar, and elevated by the chemistry between Nick Offerman and Kiersey Clemons, Hearts Beat Loud offers feel-good father-daughter drama.

Synopsis: In the hip Brooklyn neighborhood of Red Hook, single dad and record store owner Frank is preparing to send his... [More]

Starring: Nick Offerman, Kiersey Clemons, Ted Danson, Sasha Lane

Directed By: Brett Haley

#4

Nico, 1988 (2017)
94%

#4

Adjusted Score: 97598%

Critics Consensus: Nico, 1988 takes an absorbing -- and appropriately idiosyncratic -- look at the singer's later years.

Synopsis: Approaching age 50, singer/songwriter Nico leads a solitary existence -- far from her days as a Warhol superstar and celebrated... [More]

Starring: Trine Dyrholm, Sàndor Funtek, Anamaria Marinca, Karina Fernandez

Directed By: Susanna Nicchiarelli

#5

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018)
80%

#5

Adjusted Score: 95129%

Critics Consensus: Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again doubles down on just about everything fans loved about the original -- and my my, how can fans resist it?

Synopsis: In 1979 young Donna, Tanya and Rosie graduate from Oxford University -- leaving Donna free to embark on a series... [More]

Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Lily James, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth

Directed By: Ol Parker