Broadway musicals have long captivated audiences with their dazzling performances, unforgettable songs, and compelling stories. In recent years, Hollywood has brought many of these beloved stage productions to the big screen, allowing even more people to experience the magic of Broadway. Let’s take a look at the 10 most-watched Broadway adaptation movies of all time, based on their box office success up to 2025.
1. Wicked (2024)
At the top of our list is the enchanting tale of the witches of Oz, “Wicked.” This movie adaptation of the hit Broadway musical has taken the world by storm since its release in November 2024. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, “Wicked” has become a global phenomenon.
The film tells the story of two unlikely friends: Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned witch, and Glinda, the popular blonde witch. Their journey through friendship, rivalry, and self-discovery has resonated with audiences worldwide. With its stunning visuals, catchy songs, and powerful performances, “Wicked” has earned an impressive $634 million at the global box office, making it the highest-grossing Broadway adaptation of all time.
2. Mamma Mia! (2008)
Coming in second place is the feel-good musical “Mamma Mia!” Based on the songs of ABBA, this sunny, Greek island-set romance has been a favorite since its release in 2008. The star-studded cast, including Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, and Colin Firth, brought the story of Sophie’s quest to discover her father’s identity to life.
With its catchy tunes like “Dancing Queen” and “Take a Chance on Me,” “Mamma Mia!” earned $611 million worldwide. The film’s success even led to a sequel, “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,” released in 2018.
3. Les Misérables (2012)
Victor Hugo’s classic novel turned Broadway musical found new life on the big screen in 2012. Directed by Tom Hooper, “Les Misérables” features an all-star cast including Hugh Jackman, Anne Hathaway, and Russell Crowe.
This epic tale of love, redemption, and revolution in 19th-century France touched hearts around the world. With its raw, emotional performances and unforgettable songs like “I Dreamed a Dream,” “Les Misérables” earned $442 million globally.
4. The Greatest Showman (2017)
While not a direct Broadway adaptation, “The Greatest Showman” captures the spirit of musical theater and has become a modern classic. Inspired by the life of P.T. Barnum, this original musical stars Hugh Jackman as the legendary showman.
The film’s uplifting message and catchy songs, including the hit “This Is Me,” resonated with audiences worldwide. “The Greatest Showman” surprised many by becoming a sleeper hit, eventually earning $435 million at the global box office.
5. Grease (1978)
A timeless classic, “Grease” continues to captivate new generations of viewers. This adaptation of the 1971 musical stars John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John as high school sweethearts Danny and Sandy.
Set in the 1950s, “Grease” is filled with memorable songs, electrifying dance numbers, and a nostalgic look at teenage life. The film was a massive hit upon its release, earning $366 million worldwide. When adjusted for inflation, its box office success is even more impressive.
6. Chicago (2002)
This jazzy tale of murder, greed, and showbiz in 1920s Chicago dazzled audiences on Broadway before making its way to the big screen. Directed by Rob Marshall and starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere, “Chicago” brought the razzle-dazzle of vaudeville to movie theaters.
The film’s clever blend of reality and fantasy, along with show-stopping numbers like “All That Jazz,” helped it earn $307 million worldwide. “Chicago” also won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
7. Hairspray (2007)
Based on the Broadway musical (which was itself based on John Waters’ 1988 film), “Hairspray” is a feel-good story about integration and acceptance in 1960s Baltimore. The 2007 adaptation stars Nikki Blonsky as Tracy Turnblad, with John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Zac Efron in supporting roles.
With its catchy songs, colorful costumes, and important message, “Hairspray” was a hit with audiences and critics alike. The film earned $203 million at the global box office.
8. Into the Woods (2014)
Stephen Sondheim’s beloved musical “Into the Woods” got the Disney treatment in 2014. Directed by Rob Marshall, the film features an ensemble cast including Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and James Corden.
This twisted fairy tale mash-up brings together characters from various Brothers Grimm stories, exploring what happens after “happily ever after.” With its star power and familiar stories, “Into the Woods” earned $213 million worldwide.
9. The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s long-running musical about a mysterious, masked figure who haunts the Paris Opera House finally made it to the big screen in 2004. Directed by Joel Schumacher and starring Gerard Butler and Emmy Rossum, the film brought the Phantom’s haunting melodies to movie audiences.
While it received mixed reviews from critics, “The Phantom of the Opera” found success with fans of the musical, earning $154 million globally.
10. Rent (2005)
Rounding out our list is “Rent,” the film adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s groundbreaking musical about young artists struggling to survive in New York City during the AIDS crisis. Directed by Chris Columbus, the movie features most of the original Broadway cast, including Idina Menzel and Anthony Rapp.
While “Rent” didn’t achieve the same box office success as some of the other films on this list, earning $31 million worldwide, it has become a cult favorite. The movie’s powerful message and memorable songs like “Seasons of Love” continue to resonate with viewers.
Bottom Line
From the record-breaking success of “Wicked” to the enduring popularity of classics like “Grease,” Broadway adaptations have proven to be a winning formula at the box office. These 10 movies have brought the joy, emotion, and spectacle of live theater to millions of viewers around the world.
Whether you’re a longtime theater fan or new to the world of musicals, these films offer something for everyone. They showcase the power of storytelling through song and dance, bringing Broadway’s magic to the silver screen.