Musicals have a magical way of combining storytelling, emotion, and unforgettable songs into an experience that transcends the stage or screen. While some musicals find their fame solely on Broadway, others take the world by storm as blockbuster films, winning hearts and raking in millions. Whether adapted from stage productions or conceived as original cinematic masterpieces, these musicals struck a chord with audiences everywhere. Here are seven musicals that became box office hits, cementing their places in pop culture history.

1. The Sound of Music (1965)

It’s impossible to talk about musicals without mentioning The Sound of Music. Adapted from the Broadway production, this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic became a global phenomenon, earning an astounding $286 million worldwide (a monumental figure for the 1960s).

Starring Julie Andrews as Maria, the lively nun-turned-governess, and set in picturesque Austria during the rise of World War II, the film delivered emotional depth, charm, and breathtaking scenic views. With iconic songs like “My Favorite Things” and “Edelweiss,” it captured the spirit of resilience and love. It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and remains a beloved family classic to this day.

2. Grease (1978)

When grease lightning struck, the result was box office gold! Grease was an electrifying blend of high school romance, catchy songs, and 1950s nostalgia that dominated theaters. Adapted from the stage musical of the same name, it became the highest-grossing musical of its time, earning over $396 million globally.

John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John sizzled on screen as Danny and Sandy, delivering now-iconic performances of hits like “You’re the One That I Want” and “Summer Nights.” Grease nailed its rebellious yet fun-loving vibe, ensuring fans would keep the soundtrack on repeat for decades.

3. Les Misérables (2012)

Victor Hugo’s sweeping tale of love, revolution, and redemption dazzled audiences on stage and on the silver screen. The 2012 movie adaptation of Les Misérables, directed by Tom Hooper, brought an A-list cast—Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe—to the timeless story. The film earned over $441 million at the box office worldwide.

Anne Hathaway’s heart-wrenching performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” alone was enough to make grown adults weep (and secure her an Oscar). Coupled with epic production designs and emotionally charged visuals, the film reignited love for this operatic masterpiece.

4. Chicago (2002)

With razzle-dazzle, grit, and a whole lot of jazz, Chicago revived the movie musical genre in the early 2000s. Adapted from the hit Broadway show, the film stars Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere in a glamorous yet cynical look at crime and fame in Prohibition-era America.

Not only did Chicago rake in more than $306 million worldwide, but it also won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture—making it the first musical to win in this category since Oliver! in 1968. Its show-stopping numbers, including “Cell Block Tango” and “All That Jazz,” reminded audiences just how electrifying movie musicals could be.

5. The Greatest Showman (2017)

An original movie musical (and loosely based on a true story), The Greatest Showman took the box office by storm with its dazzling spectacle. Hugh Jackman stars as P.T. Barnum, the visionary behind the circus that became “The Greatest Show on Earth.” With an unforgettable soundtrack—including the Oscar-nominated anthem “This Is Me”—the film resonated with audiences worldwide.

Though critics were lukewarm, fans embraced the film’s hopeful message and show-stopping performances, helping it earn over $435 million at the global box office. Its rich visuals and heartwarming mix of grit and glitz solidified The Greatest Showman as a modern classic.

6. Mamma Mia! (2008)

Who could resist the infectious charm of ABBA’s greatest hits paired with a sunny Greek island setting? Adapted from the stage production, Mamma Mia! brought feel-good vibes and big-name stars like Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, and Amanda Seyfried to the big screen.

The jukebox musical became a surprise sensation, raking in $694 million worldwide—proof that audiences were ready to sing along (off-key) to “Dancing Queen” and “Mamma Mia” in packed theaters. Its irresistible energy, family dynamics, and swoon-worthy romance made it a must-watch, leading to a 2018 sequel, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.

7. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is both a box office superstar and a major milestone in cinema history. The animated musical charmed audiences with its “tale as old as time,” earning $440 million worldwide. With memorable songs like “Be Our Guest” and the emotional title number, it became the first animated film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

Its gorgeous animation, unforgettable characters, and timeless themes of love and acceptance enchanted audiences of all ages, paving the way for more animated musicals to achieve box office gold. A live-action remake in 2017 also proved successful, grossing over $1.26 billion.

Why These Musicals Resonate

These films all have something in common—they tap into universal emotions and deliver unforgettable music that’s impossible to get out of your head. Whether it’s The Greatest Showman's empowering anthem or Grease's heartwarming nostalgia, these musicals transcend their genres, offering experiences that make audiences laugh, cry, and cheer.

Ultimately, these box office hits remind us why musicals have been treasured for generations—they take us to places where emotions come alive through song, creating moments that stay with us long after the credits roll.