Classic Musicals to Watch During Family Bonding Time

A musical film showcases full-scale song and dance performances as part of the story's narrative. The music elements mostly help progress the story and further develop the characters' personality. Yet there are some musicals that simply require characters to start singing and dancing production numbers in between typical scenes that don't seem to have that very musical nature.

Through the years, the musical film has become one of the most distinct genres in Hollywood productions. Timeless musicals continue to capture many generations of movie fans. Some of the most memorable ones were actually made many decades ago, but, until now, they are still great movies to watch for many viewers.

"The Wizard of Oz" (1939)

Based on the 1900 fairy tale novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum, the musical fantasy "The Wizard of Oz" is a classic piece that has touched many viewers and influenced countless films even many decades after its release. It resonates such timeless demeanor that even people of today can relate to it. Its fantasy storytelling, unusual characters, and song numbers are so vivid, engaging, and, above all, iconic.

Acknowledged as one of the best and most-watched movies of all time, this musical is an ideal choice for families watching a movie together. It is especially interesting to children who can get introduced to classic fantasy films produced way before their parents were even born. Its musical piece "Over the Rainbow" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Even up to now, many children who are starting to get their feet wet on theater and music usually find their ways singing songs from the film.

"The Sound of Music" (1965)

Another critically acclaimed piece, "The Sound of Music" is acknowledged as one of the best and most popular musicals ever produced. It is based on the Broadway musical of the same title, which actually originated from the book "The Story of the Trapp Family Singers" by Maria von Trapp. It's a great movie for a family bonding time because of its touching story and memorable songs.

Aside from its Academy Award Best Picture win, this blockbuster film's cast album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Album of the Year. Children can also find it interesting to watch this classic piece as they get new insights into songs that are often initially familiar to them already through school. Some of the most popular musical pieces from this film include the title song "The Sound of Music," "Do-Re-Mi," "Sixteen Going on Seventeen," "Edelweiss," "My Favorite Things," "Climb Ev'ry Mountain," and "The Lonely Goatherd."

"Mary Poppins" (1964)

"Mary Poppins" is a timeless motion picture based on the "Mary Poppins" books by author P.L. Travers and illustrator Mary Shepard. Both the excellent family values and engaging music in this Disney film make it a popular selection for a classic musical film to watch with the family. It can capture the hearts of its viewers regardless of age.

This musical is a fun movie to watch for many reasons. Its delightful visuals and eye-popping dance numbers offer its viewers such a light and feel-good vibe. It has a number of amazing production numbers and memorable songs, including the Academy Award-winning "Chim Chim Cher-ee." It also won five Oscars and eight other nominations.