Hidden Gems: Underrated Films Every Music Lover Needs to See
For music lovers, cinema is often a feast for the ears as much as the eyes. While mainstream biopics and massive musicals dominate the conversation, a treasure trove of underrated films offers deeper, more eclectic dives into sound, sonic obsession, and the culture surrounding music. These movies go beyond simple soundtracks, making the audio experience an integral part of their narrative soul. From forgotten indie gems to underappreciated genre-blenders, here are a few underrated film ideas for music lovers seeking something new. The Sonic Obsession in Sound of Metal (2020)
While Sound of Metal gained critical acclaim, it remains under-seen by many who would appreciate its technical brilliance. The film centers on Ruben, a heavy metal drummer and recovering addict who abruptly loses his hearing. This is not just a film about a musician; it is a cinematic exploration of sound itself. The sound design is immersive and transformative, designed to put the audience directly into Ruben’s experience—from the high-octane distortion of his live performances to the unsettling, quiet world of his new reality. It brilliantly illustrates the physical and emotional toll of silence on someone whose identity is forged in noise. The film is a masterclass in subjective audio storytelling, forcing a new appreciation for the act of listening. Genre-Blending Beatmaking in Beats (2019)
Set against the backdrop of the 1990s illegal rave scene in Scotland, Beats is a kinetic, black-and-white love letter to youth culture, friendship, and music as a form of rebellion. Following two best friends on their final night together before one moves away, the film culminates in an incredible, extended rave sequence that perfectly captures the euphoric, transcendent experience of electronic music. Beats shines by focusing on the communal, almost spiritual connection that dance music provides, contrasting it with the drab, restrictive atmosphere of their small-town lives. Its brilliant soundtrack, featuring tracks from The Prodigy and others, is matched by incredible cinematography that mirrors the feeling of being completely lost in the music. A Moody Soundscape in Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Directed by Jim Jarmusch, Only Lovers Left Alive is a vampire film, but it is primarily a love letter to art, literature, and specifically, music. Adam, a moody, underground musician living in Detroit, creates haunting, lo-fi rock music while surrounded by vintage equipment and antique string instruments. The film’s atmosphere is dictated by its score, a hypnotic mix of post-rock, blues, and neo-psychedelia, which reflects the ennui and deep knowledge of its immortal protagonists. For music lovers, it’s a romantic, slow-burn exploration of artistic obsession and the timeless nature of sonic beauty, highlighting the joy of curation and the sonic texture of nostalgia. The Intimacy of Indie Folk in Once (2007)
While famous for winning an Oscar, Once is often overlooked by newer generations of viewers, yet it remains one of the most intimate musical films ever made. Unlike traditional musicals where characters burst into song, the music in Once exists naturally, with the characters writing and performing songs to express their emotions and advance their connection. Following an Irish busker and a Czech immigrant who connect through music in Dublin, the film is deeply personal and largely improvised. The songs are stunningly raw, and the film focuses on the songwriting process itself, making it a perfect, low-key gem for anyone who appreciates the honest, storytelling side of acoustic and folk music. The Punk Ethos of Green Room (2015)
For fans of heavier music, Green Room is a tense, brutal thriller that authentically portrays the punk rock scene. The film follows a desperate punk band, “The Ain’t Rights,” who accept a gig at a remote neo-Nazi skinhead bar, only to get trapped after witnessing a murder. The film is not a “musical,” but it captures the gritty, DIY ethos of punk better than most music-focused dramas. The band’s passion for their music is shown through their dedication to the craft, even in the face of immense danger. The sonic landscape is harsh, immediate, and high-stakes, matching the terrifying, claustrophobic atmosphere of the film itself.
These films represent only a fraction of the cinema that celebrates the power of sound, proving that the best music films are not always the loudest or the most popular. They understand that music is not just background noise; it is a vital part of storytelling, emotion, and cultural identity. For viewers looking to explore the intersection of cinema and sound, these underrated gems offer unforgettable experiences that linger long after the final note.
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