5 Best Biographies of Musicians, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes

With the recent proliferation of vital literature, it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish between those that deserve your attention and those that could completely destroy your perception of someone’s artistic legacy.

If you’re not willing to risk your evening on something that will disappoint you and not do justice to your favorite artist, go ahead and check out these top five musician biographies based on the critical score accumulated by Rotten Tomatoes.

5. Amadeus (1984) – 89%

Starring Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham, Amadeus focuses on the life, success, and struggles of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. What makes this movie interesting and different from other biographies of the author is its unreliable narrator, who also happens to be Mozart’s greatest rival, Antonio Salieri.

4. Behind the Candelabra (2013) – 94%

One of the films in Michael Douglas and Matt Damon’s filmography that never gets enough recognition for what it deserves. The Candelabra tells the beautiful story of the relationship between superstar singer Liberace and his young lover, Scott Thorson. Although not well known to the general public, the film won 11 Primetime Emmys.

3. Belize (2018) – 95%

Even those who have never heard of Blaze Foley will be amazed at his story and the way it is portrayed in this somewhat unconventional biopic. Although there were some differences that almost caused a backlash among the original Foley fans (such as the depth of his voice), the final cut ended up exceeding all expectations.

2- The Pianist (2002) – 95%

Many enthusiasts consider this film to be the best in the entire filmography of Roman Polanski. It is difficult to judge whether this is true or not, but the true story of a Polish Jewish pianist and composer, amazingly portrayed by Adrien Brody, who survived World War II, will not leave anyone indifferent.

1. What does love have to do with it? (1993) – 97%

So much success of what love has to do with it? It has to do with Angela Bassett’s fantastic performance. Although she looks nothing like Tina Turner herself, the actress perfectly captures her essence and does justice to the iconic singer’s story of finding the inner strength to break free from abuse.