Folk musicals incorporate traditional music and often focus on rural or working-class stories.
1. O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)
The Coen Brothers’ Depression-era retelling of Homer’s Odyssey features a soundtrack of traditional American folk music.
Why it’s great:
- Stellar performances from George Clooney and the ensemble cast
- Grammy-winning soundtrack that revitalized interest in bluegrass
- Clever adaptation of classical mythology to the American South
2. Once (2007)
This Irish musical follows the relationship between two struggling musicians in Dublin.
Why it’s great:
- Natural, understated performances from Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová
- Oscar-winning song “Falling Slowly”
- Authentic portrayal of the songwriting process
3. Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)
Another Coen Brothers film, this follows a week in the life of a folk singer in 1961 New York City.
Why it’s great:
- Oscar Isaac‘s breakout performance as Llewyn Davis
- Authentic recreation of the 1960s folk scene
- Melancholic exploration of artistic struggle
4. Sunshine on Leith (2013)
This Scottish musical uses the songs of The Proclaimers to tell a story of two soldiers returning home to Edinburgh.
Why it’s great:
- Feel-good story with relatable characters
- Creative use of The Proclaimers’ catalogue
- Showcases Edinburgh’s beauty
5. Wild Rose (2018)
This British musical drama follows a young Scottish woman dreaming of becoming a country music star.
Why it’s great:
- Jessie Buckley’s powerful performance as Rose-Lynn
- Exploration of the conflict between dreams and responsibilities
- Blend of country music with Scottish setting.
