Ever since video killed the radio star, and probably before, there has been a public obsession with seeing the lives of our favorite rock stars caught on camera. They're all over television gossip programs, 'tween' magazines, in our supermarket aisles, and now, in our movies. However, once in a while a movie comes along that really allows the audience to peer into the hearts and souls of their idols, and see a little deeper into the meaning behind the music. Whether these movies are sought out, or happened across while flipping through the channels on satellite tv, they are instant classics that warm our hearts. That being said, the following are some of the top rock and roll movies of all time.
1. Walk the Line (2005). Get an insiders view into the life of legendary Johnny Cash with this film that follows him from boyhood to fame. This film tells the story of a life riddled by addiction and misfortune, love, lust, and of course, musical genius. With a great palette of colors, and stars Jaoquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon, it's a great film to see in HD.
2. The Doors Movie (1991). Starting in Los Angeles in the 60's this rock and roll epic follows the story of poet and singer Jim Morrison through music and fame, from his days as a UCLA film student through his struggles with self-destruction. Featuring music, mayhem, and Val Kilmer as Morrison, this film is a journey through the world of California rock that existed for a brief moment in time in Los Angeles.
3. Ray (2004). A visual masterpiece in high definition, the film Ray makes a statement right from the start. From the very beginning of his life straight on through to the end this movie chronicles the trials and tribulations of rocking pianist, vocalist, and legend Ray Charles. After losing his eyesight he struggles through to make a career during the 1950s and 1960s, all the while facing racism, drug abuse, and toxic relationships. Ray stays true to his ideas about combining soul and gospel music to become the musical legend we all know and love.
4. Tommy (1975). This masterpiece by The Who not only hit the silver screen in a big way, but was a smash Broadway hit. The whimsical tale of a blind, deaf, and mute pinball wizard, the original movie features the complete band including drummer Keith Moon, before his death.
5. Jailhouse Rock (1957). Once the hottest thing north of the equator, Elvis lights up the screen as Vince Everett, a young man serving time for manslaughter. He is introduced into the record business by his cellmate, but has some trouble hacking it once he gets out of prison. After forming his own label and becoming a big hit, he struggles with the burden of fame, and we wonder if he'll stay true to his roots or get lost in the glamour. Oldies like this can be found on classic movie channels, like those available with satellite tv.
6. A Hard Day's Night (1964). A goofy tribute to an average day in the life of the famous foursome the Beatles, the film A Hard Day's Night, combines comedy and music for a truly entertaining cinematic experience. Each of the Beatles has an individual storyline going at some point or another, but not to worry; it all comes together with a rocking concert at the end. If anyone were to make a movie about evading adoring fans a smash hit, it would be the Beatles.
Start rocking out today by getting all the right channels from Direct TV. With affordable DirectTV Deals anyone can bring the magic of rock and roll right into their own living room.
