Top 10 Most Underrated Movie Musicals

"Bedknobs and Broomsticks" transforms the work of Mary Norton into a memorable Disney movie. Released in the 70s, this musical stars Angela Lansbury as the enigmatic Miss Price. The witch character cares for a group of children during World War II, in a mix of fantasy and history that the entire family can enjoy together. Lansbury serves up her usual charisma as the enchantress with a few tricks up her sleeve. The film also features a mixture of live action and animation that harkens back to other magical releases like “Mary Poppins.” Even if it doesn't share the same status as that classic, it still has an endearing quality and several snappy numbers.

The French musical "8 Women" is an ambitious film with a cast of many legendary French actresses. It revolves around a family Christmas celebration that’s interrupted by a homicide. Things aren't all gloomy though, as the film leavens its murder mystery trappings with a healthy dose of comedy and music. Actresses such as Catherine Deneuve and Isabelle Huppert share the screen admirably in a joyful experience, and the many high profile performers surprisingly mesh into an effective and enjoyable ensemble. While not as well-known outside of its home country, the murder musical has enough charm to thrill audiences of all kinds.

Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, "James and the Giant Peach" is a children's story unlike any other. The book's surreal concepts also account for some impressive imagery in the adaptation. Blending live action and animated sequences, the movie is as inventive with its direction as it is with the music. Randy Newman, renowned for his work on several Pixar projects, provides the score and a number of underrated numbers which add considerably to the film’s somewhat melancholic mood. You could even argue that this particular musical is even better because it deals with darker topics that other kids' films avoid.

Known for their dark comedies, the Coen Brothers venture out into new territory with this film about the 60s folk scene. "Inside Llewyn Davis" takes a look at a musician trying to scrape by as his ego sabotages him and his luck continues to run out. Oscar Isaac plays the titular performer with tremendous nuance and a dash of humor. He also provides his voice for each of his songs, in wonderful performances that are filmed live for each scene. Pulling zero punches, the story examines the life of an artist who can’t seem to catch a break. It's a tremendously rewarding movie that pays homage to folk music with a surprising amount of authenticity.

You could do a lot worse than a musical starring Judy Garland and Gene Kelly. Not usually listed among either star’s greatest works, “Summer Stock” has its own effective take on the famous MGM formula. The story of a farm owner falling for a director provides a simple and engaging narrative to build multiple music sequences around. One of the best scenes is the famous "Get Happy” number, which lets the lead actress really show off her skills. The movie allows for Garland and Kelly to remind everyone of their dancing expertise with songs like "Portland Fancy." This particular release didn't have the same box office as other contemporary efforts, but it’s another compelling entry from the classic era of Hollywood musicals.

Director John Carney takes audiences back to Ireland in the 80s for “Sing Street." Following a boy's quest to start a band, the relatable premise features a nice twist on a popular story. Known for films like "Once," Carney creates another crowd-pleasing narrative about aspiring performers on the Emerald Isle. There's also a couple of songs that are standouts, including "Drive It Like You Stole It." The coming-of-age musical features many tributes to its period setting and a timeless tale about young artists. Some circles hold the film in high regard, with a soundtrack that won't soon be forgotten.

With beautiful art direction and attention to detail, director Ken Russell creates a love letter to the theater with “The Boy Friend” which doesn’t ignore its sometimes seamy side. An assistant stage manager assumes the spotlight after an injury sidelines a theater star, shaking up the 1920s setting with backstage drama. Twiggy stars in the main role, while Russell assembles a group of skilled technicians to portray the setting with the utmost care. Released in an era that didn’t prioritize musicals, the movie is sometimes lost among other more gritty releases of the time. Any fans of old-timey stage shows will appreciate this production from top to bottom. Under-seen and under-appreciated, the musical numbers in this film glow with a bright intensity.

"Across the Universe" is an underrated musical partly because it attempts a near-impossible task. The film turns The Beatles' catalog into an impressive work filled with many of the band's best tunes. Filmmaker Julie Taymor guides the plot along with stunning visuals and cinematic choreography. Actors like Jim Sturgess and Evan Rachel Wood elevate the central love story and sing their hearts out in a number of commendable covers. In what could have been a disaster, the movie pays wonderful tribute to the original compositions without sacrificing any artistic integrity. It might not be perfect, but this project has more than enough for both casual and die-hard Beatles fans to enjoy.

Barbra Streisand is a true multi-hyphenate artist in her work for "Yentl." She stars as a Jewish woman who poses as a man and falls for a fellow male student. Also working as a director, Streisand brings her talents to every frame of this production. The most famous number from the film, “Papa, Can You Hear Me?,” remains an essential part of the singer's career because of its emotional power. A great cast surrounds the lead performer including acclaimed dramatic actor and singer Mandy Patinkin. "Yentl" might not receive the same attention as her earlier work, but it does provide a prime example of Streisand's unprecedented abilities.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Written by the Band Sparks, This Surreal Musical Stars Adam Driver as a Destructive Comedian

An Obscure Film with an Inventive Premise & Surprisingly Effective Numbers

The Robert Altman Film Deserves Another Look for Its Tremendous Heart & Music

While Not for Everyone, This Fantasy Features a Great Soundtrack from Artists like ELO

Peter Dinklage Earned Rave Reviews for His Interpretation of the Classic Title Character

"Phantom of the Paradise" is many things, including a rousing musical that has yet to find a mainstream audience. To put it simply, the film transforms "Phantom of the Opera" into a rock show. Director Brian De Palma, known for his thrillers, brings out a free-spirited and comedic energy in the piece. The movie tells the tale of a scorned songwriter's campaign for vengeance against an evil producer. An eclectic cast includes performer Paul Williams as one of many stand-out characters from this wonderfully bizarre adventure. The entire production refuses to be categorized into one genre and instead shines for its true originality.