The Best Music Biopics for Music-Biopic Haters
Films like ‘Last Days,’ ‘Control,’ and ‘I’m Not There’ show that music movies don’t have to follow predictable formulas. Many top music biopics avoid clichés such as exaggerated moments of inspiration, the skeptic telling the artist they’re wrong, the artist’s defiant “it’s my art” reply, and the feel-good endings with hugs and celebrations.
Some titles stand out by focusing on musicians who lacked happy endings, like Ian Curtis, Kurt Cobain, or Sid Vicious, or by blending fiction with real events. This approach is welcome, as truth can be complex, and sad outcomes are part of reality. Anything that breaks the mold is appreciated.
“When even the white man starts dancing.” — Tony Wilson, on the Madchester scene
Steve Coogan stars as Tony Wilson, a music mogul from 1990s Manchester, in this energetic film about the “Madchester” scene, which brought forward bands such as Joy Division, The Happy Mondays, and The Stone Roses.
Summary: This article highlights music biopics that break traditional molds by focusing on complex stories and unconventional endings, offering fresh takes on the genre.