If Bohemian Rhapsody Was Your J..., These M... Biopics Might Be Next (2025/2026)

When Bohemian Rhapsody dropped, it didn’t just tell the story of Queen — it felt like Queen. It was loud, electric, dramatic, and deeply human. Whether you showed up for the iconic music, Rami Malek’s unforgettable performance as Freddie Mercury, or just to re-live Live Aid on the big screen, it was the kind of film that made you sing, cry, and maybe even Google “Queen discography” the second the credits rolled.

If that movie hit you in the heart — or reminded you how much one artist’s life can impact generations — then it’s time to keep the rhythm going. These 12 music biopics and dramas dive into the lives, struggles, and genius of some of the most iconic (and complicated) figures in music history. Some are theatrical, some raw, some poetic — but all are packed with soul.

Here are your must-watch music biopics for 2025/2026:

1. Rocketman (2019)

Genre: Musical, Biography, Drama

If Bohemian Rhapsody was a rock biopic, Rocketman is a musical fantasy. Taron Egerton sings as Elton John — and he nails it. Bold, vulnerable, and theatrical in the best way, it’s a dazzling tribute to a living legend.

2. Elvis (2022)

Genre: Biography, Drama, Music

Baz Luhrmann doesn’t do subtle — and neither did Elvis. This visually explosive, emotionally layered take on The King’s rise and fall is elevated by Austin Butler’s transformative performance.

3. Ray (2004)

Genre: Biography, Drama, Music

Jamie Foxx became Ray Charles — no exaggeration. He won an Oscar for a reason. This soulful film traces Ray’s struggles with addiction, fame, and disability with honesty and heart.

4. Walk the Line (2005)

Genre: Biography, Drama, Romance

Johnny Cash’s journey through love, loss, and addiction is brought to life by Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon (both brilliant). It’s gritty, emotional, and has a soundtrack that’ll stick with you.

5. Respect (2021)

Genre: Biography, Drama, Music

Jennifer Hudson steps into the iconic heels of Aretha Franklin — and it’s a powerful tribute. It explores not just the music but the fight behind it: for identity, freedom, and control in a male-dominated industry.

6. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020)

Genre: Drama, Music, Historical

More stage play than standard biopic, this film explores one intense recording session with blues legend Ma Rainey (Viola Davis). Chadwick Boseman’s final performance is haunting and unforgettable.

7. Whitney (2018)

Genre: Documentary, Biography

If you’re ready to cry again, this honest look at Whitney Houston’s rise and tragic fall is both beautiful and devastating. It’s a must-see for anyone who loved her voice — and wondered about the pain behind it.

8. Sid & Nancy (1986)

Genre: Biography, Romance, Punk

This one’s raw. It chronicles the doomed romance between Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen — a love story soaked in punk, chaos, and tragedy.

9. Love & Mercy (2014)

Genre: Biography, Drama, Music

Not your average biopic. This story of Beach Boys’ genius Brian Wilson is told in two timelines, with Paul Dano and John Cusack portraying different eras of his life. It’s quiet, inventive, and emotionally rich.

10. Straight Outta Compton (2015)

Genre: Biography, Drama, Music

This high-energy, unfiltered story of N.W.A’s explosive rise put West Coast hip-hop on full cinematic display. It’s thrilling, powerful, and hits hard with social commentary and personal grit.

11. The Dirt (2019)

Genre: Biography, Comedy, Music

This wild ride through Mötley Crüe’s chaotic heyday is outrageous, messy, and full of sex, drugs, and heavy metal. It’s more rock-and-roll than refined — but if you loved Bohemian Rhapsody’s backstage energy, it delivers.

12. Amy (2015)

Genre: Documentary, Biography

This intimate documentary on Amy Winehouse is as painful as it is beautiful. It doesn’t sugarcoat her struggles, but it honors her voice, her soul, and her humanity in a way no scripted film could.