The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch

This article is a collaborative effort, crafted and edited by a team of dedicated professionals.

Contributors: Andranick Tanguiane, Fred Lerdahl,

Looking for a great film to watch that celebrates folk music? Look no further than this list of the best folk music movies out there. From documentaries to feature films, there’s something for everyone on this list.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch

When it comes to music movies, there are a lot of different genres to choose from. But if you’re a fan of folk music, there are some great films out there that you’ll definitely want to check out. Here are just a few of the best folk music movies that you can watch.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch
-Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?
-The Wrecking Crew
-A Mighty Wind
-Inside Llewyn Davis
-The Big Rock Candy Mountain

The Best Folk Music Movies of All Time

There’s nothing quite like watching a great folk music movie. Whether it’s a documentary about the genre, a concert film featuring your favorite folk musicians, or a fictional film set in the world of folk music, these movies always seem to hit the right notes.

In no particular order, here are some of the best folk music movies of all time:

“The Wrecking Crew” (2008) – This documentary tells the story of the group of session musicians who played on some of the most iconic folk records of all time. Featuring interviews with Folk legends like Tom Petty, Neil Young, and Jackson Browne, this is a must-see for any fan of the genre.

“I’m Not There” (2007) – This unique biopic chronicles the life and career of Bob Dylan through six different actors who each portray a different facet of his persona. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Heath Ledger, Christian Bale, Cate Blanchett, and more, this is a fascinating look at one of folk music’s most enigmatic figures.

“A Mighty Wind” (2003) – This hilarious mockumentary follows the reunion of three estranged Folk bands as they prepare for a tribute concert in honor of their recently deceased manager. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Christopher Guest, and more, this is sure to have you laughing out loud.

“Inside Llewyn Davis” (2013) – This Coen brothers film follows struggling Folk musician Llewyn Davis as he tries to make it in the New York City music scene in the early 1960s. With an incredible soundtrack and superb performances from Oscar Isaac and Carey Mulligan, this is one film that any fan of Folk music will adore.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch with Your Family

There are a handful of great folk music movies that are perfect for watching with your family. Here are our top five picks:

1. O Brother, Where Art Thou? – This Coen Brothers classic follows the story of three escaped convicts who go on a journey through the American South in search of hidden treasure. Along the way, they encounter a number of colorful characters and have plenty of adventures, set to an amazing soundtrack of folk and bluegrass music.

2. The Wicked Lady – Margaret Lockwood stars in this 1945 British film about a young woman who turns to crime to support her lavish lifestyle. The film features several traditional folk songs sung by a group of gypsies, and has been praised for its atmospheric portrayal of rural England.

3. Nanny McPhee – Emma Thompson stars in this 2005 movie about a widowed farmer who hires a nanny to help him raise his seven unruly children. When she arrives, Nanny McPhee has magical powers that help her get the children in line. The film features several great traditional folk songs, performed by various members of the cast.

4. Far from Men – This 2014 French film is set in Algeria during the country’s struggle for independence from France. It tells the story of two men – one Algerian and one French – who form an unlikely friendship as they fight for survival in the midst of war. The film features an excellent soundtrack of Algerian folk music.

5. Songcatcher – This 2000 movie tells the story of Dr. Lily Penleric, a musicologist who travels to Appalachia in search of traditional folk songs. She discovers a rich musical tradition that is under threat from modernity, and sets out to document and preserve it before it disappears forever.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch with Your Friends

The best folk music movies are the ones that make you want to jump up and dance, or at least hum along. They’re the perfect way to enjoy a night in with your friends, and they’ll definitely get your toes tapping.

Here are our top picks for the best folk music movies:

1. O Brother, Where Art Thou? – This movie is set in the American south during the 1930s, and it follows the journey of three escaped convicts as they search for a treasure. Along the way, they encounter plenty of challenges and obstacles, but they also meet some interesting characters and enjoy some fantastic music. The soundtrack is absolutely brilliant, and it’ll stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

2. The Wind That Shakes the Barley – This movie is set during the Irish War of Independence, and it tells the story of two brothers who find themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. The film is incredibly moving, and the music is absolutely beautiful. It’s definitely one of the best folk music movies out there.

3. The Wicker Man – This movie is a bit of a cult classic, and it’s set on a remote Scottish island where a police officer goes to investigate the disappearance of a young girl. He quickly discovers that there’s much more going on than meets the eye, and he soon finds himself in danger. The movie is suspenseful and atmospheric, and the soundtrack is eerie and unsettling. It’s definitely not for everyone, but if you’re looking for something a little different, this is definitely worth checking out.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch on a rainy day

Rainy days are the perfect time to curl up with a good movie. If you’re in the mood for something music-related, why not check out one of these great folk music movies?

-The Galway Girl: This movie tells the story of an Irish musician who falls in love with an American woman. The soundtrack is full of traditional Irish folk songs, and it’s sure to get your toes tapping.

-O Brother, Where Art Thou?: This Cohen brothers film follows three convicts as they escape from prison and embark on a journey through the American South. The soundtrack is a mix of traditional folk and bluegrass, and it’s one of the most popular albums of all time.

-The Wind That Shakes the Barley: This Ken Loach film is set during the Irish War of Independence and tells the story of two brothers who must choose between fighting for their country or staying true to their own beliefs. The soundtrack is mostly traditional Irish folk songs, but there are also some modern reinterpretations.

-Inside Llewyn Davis: This Coen brothers film follows a struggling musician in the early days of the folk music scene in New York City. The soundtrack features some classic folk songs, as well as some original tunes composed for the movie.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch when you’re feeling nostalgic

There’s something about folk music that just makes you feel good. Maybe it’s the simple, often upbeat melodies. Maybe it’s the fact that many folk songs are about real life and problems that we can all relate to. Whatever the reason, folk music has a way of making us feel connected to each other and to the past.

For those times when you’re feeling particularly nostalgic, we’ve put together a list of the best folk music movies to watch. These films all capture the spirit of folk music and will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

1. The Weavers: Wasn’t That a Time! (1982)
2. Woody Guthrie: Hard Travelin’ (1984)
3. Lead Belly (1986)
4. Sweet Soul Music (1986)
5. The Committee (1968)
6. Petulia (1968)
7. Alice’s Restaurant (1969)

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch when you need a pick-me-up

We all have those days when we need a pick-me-up. Maybe we didn’t get enough sleep the night before, or we’re just feeling a little bit down. On days like these, it can be helpful to watch a feel-good movie. And what could be more feel-good than a movie about folk music?

Folk music has a way of bringing people together and creating community. It’s the perfect genre for a feel-good movie because it has the power to lift our spirits and make us feel connected to something larger than ourselves.

There are plenty of great folk music movies out there, but here are five of our favorites:

1) The Ballad of Ramblin’ Jack – This documentary tells the story of Jack Elliott, a folk singer who was hugely influential in the early days of the folk music revival. Elliott was a protege of Woody Guthrie and an inspiration to Bob Dylan. The film includes interviews with Elliott’s friends and family, as well as footage of him performing.

2) Folklore – This award-winning documentary explores the rich tradition of Irish folk music through the stories of some of its most famous performers. Featuring interviews and performances by artists like Christy Moore, Paul Brady, Planxty, and others, Folklore is a must-see for any fan of Irish music.

3) Concert for George – This concert film features an all-star lineup of musicians performing songs written by George Harrison. The concert was held at London’s Royal Albert Hall on November 29, 2002, one year after Harrison’s death. Proceeds from the concert went to the Material World Foundation, Harrison’s charity foundation.

4) Willie Nelson & Family: Live at Austin City Limits – This classic concert film features country legend Willie Nelson performing with his family band at Austin City Limits in 1978. The film includes renditions of some of Nelson’s most famous songs, including “On the Road Again” and “Crazy.”

5) Hurray for the Riff Raff: Small Town Heroes – This documentary follows roots musician Alynda Segarra as she returns to her hometown of Bronx, New York after years spent on the road touring with her band Hurray for the Riff Raff. The film chronicles Segarra’s journey as she reconnects with her roots and rediscovers her love for music.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch when you’re in the mood for a sing-along

If you’re in the mood for a film that will get your toes tapping and have you singing along, check out our list of the best folk music movies. From classics like The Sound of Music to more recent hits like Mamma Mia!, these movies are sure to please. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy!

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch when you want to learn more about the genre

Folk music has been around for centuries, and it’s no surprise that there are plenty of folk music movies out there. If you’re looking to learn more about the genre, or just want to enjoy some great music, these are the best folk music movies to watch.

1. The Wicker Man (1973)

This classic British horror movie is set in a remote Scottish island, and features a number of traditional folk songs. It’s a great introduction to the genre, and the eerie atmosphere makes it all the more enjoyable.

2. The Wild Blue Yonder (2005)

This German documentary explores the history and culture of folk music in Europe. It features a number of interviews and performances, and is a great way to learn more about the genre.

3. Darling Companion (2012)

This American drama follows a couple as they search for their lost dog in the wilderness. Along the way, they stumble upon a group of folk musicians, and end up learning about their lives and stories. It’s a heartwarming film that’ll leave you with a new appreciation for folk music.

The Best Folk Music Movies to Watch when you want to be transported to another time and place

The best folk music movies transport you to another time and place, and make you feel like you’re a part of the music. Here are some of our favorites:

*O Brother, Where Art Thou?* – This movie transports you to the southern United States during the Depression era, and the music is just as transportive. The bluegrass, country, blues, and gospel sounds will stay with you long after the credits roll.

*Inside Llewyn Davis* – This movie will take you to the Greenwich Village folk scene in the early 1960s. You’ll get lost in the music of Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and other folk legends.

*The Legend of 1900* – This movie will take you to Italy at the turn of the 20th century, and introduce you to the beautiful world of Italian folk music. You’ll be mesmerized by the performances of Ennio Morricone and Andrea Bocelli.

Similar Posts