10 Movie Musicals That Should Have Stayed On Broadway

Embarking on the big screen in 2019, "Cats" presented audacious CGI felines that left audiences both bewildered and bemused—earning it a not-so-coveted rating of 1.6. Telling the surreal tale of a gathering of cats called the Jellicles, who must decide which feline will ascend to the heavens, this adaptation struggled to regain the magic that soared through its Broadway origins. For more introspective musings on "Cats," follow the link.

Arriving in the cinematic world in 2020, "The Prom" attempts to blend Broadway flair with social commentary, earning a middling 2.9 rating. Broadway stars descend upon a small Indiana town, crusading for the rights of two teen girls, and while the sentiment feels earnest, the execution seems more like a colorful spectacle than a heartfelt narrative. Interested readers can investigate further by checking it out here.

Despite drawing deeply from poignant themes of anxiety and loss, "Dear Evan Hansen" struggled to resonate in cinematic form, garnering a modest 3.1 rating since its 2021 release. Evan Hansen's tangled web of social anxiety and deceit didn't quite nestle into the hearts of film viewers as it did theatre-goers. Details for further viewing are available here.

Premiering in 2009, "Nine" circles around the chaos in Guido Contini’s world, a director wrestling with artistic block, personal tumult, and a crushing sense of self, capturing a less-than-stellar 2.7 rating. While visually arresting, the film adaptation failed to cohesively translate the introspective journey of its protagonist, leaving more questions than inspiration. Discover more about it here.

This 2012 adaptation boisterously rocks out with a soundtrack loaded with hits from the 1980s. Yet, its 2.9 rating suggests audiences may have found more harmony in its stage counterpart. It chronicles the familiar tale of pursuing dreams amid the challenges of L.A.'s bustling Sunset Strip. Get more insights on the film here.

"The Last Five Years" hit the screens in 2014, chronicling the ups and downs of a marriage through song, barely pushing past a 2.9 rating. This intimate two-hander plays with timelines to paint a bittersweet picture of love that captivated on stage but found a tepid reception in cinemas. The film is detailed further here.

The transformation of Eva Perón's life from stage to screen in 1996 drew a polarizing mix of admiration and critique, achieving a 3.3 rating. Madonna’s portrayal was as attention-grabbing as the life it depicted, but the movie adaptation shuffled to capture the electrifying impact of its musical roots. For more elaborate understanding, look here.

Hitting screens in 2014, "Into the Woods" mixed an ensemble of fairy-tale narratives, culminating in a musical potpourri that audiences rated at 2.8. Its venture into the cinematic woods may have lost some of the stage's rustic charm amidst its dazzling array of stars. For more enchanting details, follow the link.

In 2005, "Rent" transported its raw and revolutionary essence to the big screen, achieving a satisfactory 3.5 rating. This adaptation endeavored to retain the grit and passion detailing the bohemian struggles of New York City, although the film lacked the immediacy and fervor experienced live. Find out more about this rock opera here.

Arriving in theaters in 2014 with a 3.3 rating, "Jersey Boys" attempts to encapsulate the meteoric rise of The Four Seasons, weaving through their vibrant melodies and turbulent milestones. While the film trudges to emulate the energy of live performances, its narrative pivots around friendships just warming up to the spotlight. For more information, click here.