Musicals are some of the most beloved forms of entertainment, whether on stage or screen. While Broadway adaptations have given us unforgettable hits, not every movie musical has fared so well. Whether it’s awkward casting choices, over-the-top sets, or just an overall misfire, some adaptations have failed to resonate with audiences. Let’s take a look at 10 movie musicals that flopped, from infamous box office failures to ones that left fans scratching their heads.

1. Emilia Perez (2024)

About: A brand new film, Emilia Perez was hyped as a groundbreaking musical about a young woman fighting for her place in the world while navigating complex family dynamics.

Why It Flopped: While the concept had potential, the film struggled with a confusing plot and weak character development. Despite some strong performances, the music felt forced, and many found the direction inconsistent. Fans of musicals were disappointed, and it failed to capture the magic of more successful musical adaptations.

2. Cats (2019)

About: Based on the famous Broadway musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cats was meant to bring the whimsical world of Jellicle cats to the big screen.

Why It Flopped: The movie became infamous for its unsettling CGI cat designs that left audiences bewildered. While the musical's songs are iconic, the movie's digital effects and awkward performances couldn't overcome its bizarre visuals. The lack of a coherent plot didn't help either, and the film was panned by critics and failed to recoup its massive budget.

3. Annie (2014)

About: This reboot of the beloved musical featured a modernized version of the classic story with Quvenzhane Wallis as Annie and Jamie Foxx as Daddy Warbucks.

Why It Flopped: While it boasted a star-studded cast, the 2014 Annie felt disconnected from the heart of the original. Many fans of the classic felt the updated version lacked the charm, and the overuse of contemporary pop music in place of the classic score didn’t resonate with audiences. Critics found the humor forced, and it failed to capture the magic of the Broadway production.

4. Dear Evan Hansen (2021)

About: Adapted from the Tony Award-winning musical, this movie stars Ben Platt as Evan Hansen, a socially anxious teenager who gets caught in a lie after a classmate’s death.

Why It Flopped: While the stage production was highly praised, the film adaptation was criticized for its pacing, direction, and Ben Platt's age, as he was too old to convincingly play a teenager. Fans of the Broadway version found the movie version underwhelming, and the story, which deals with heavy themes like mental health and teen suicide, didn’t translate well to film.

5. Mean Girls (2024)

About: Based on the hit Broadway musical adaptation of the popular teen comedy, Mean Girls was set to be another blockbuster hit.

Why It Flopped: Despite high expectations, the 2024 adaptation failed to capture the sharp wit and charm of the original musical. The acting felt forced, and many of the musical numbers lacked the punch that made the stage production so memorable. Fans of the original Mean Girls movie felt it didn’t live up to the hype, leading to a disappointing box office reception.

6. Rock of Ages (2012)

About: Based on the popular Broadway rock musical, Rock of Ages featured a star-studded cast with Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, and Julianne Hough.

Why It Flopped: Though the musical’s soundtrack of 1980s rock hits was expected to generate nostalgia, the film's campy tone and over-the-top performances felt disconnected. Critics complained about the weak storyline and lack of chemistry between the cast members. While some fans enjoyed the music, the film was too cringey for mainstream success.

7. A Chorus Line (1985)

About: The movie adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical about dancers auditioning for a Broadway show featured some big names, but it couldn’t match the energy of its stage counterpart.

Why It Flopped: A Chorus Line had trouble translating the emotional depth and energy of the stage production onto the big screen. The film’s pacing and performances left many critics and fans unimpressed. The music, though still strong, didn’t come through as powerfully in this adaptation, and the movie didn’t resonate with audiences in the same way the stage show did.

8. Fame (2009)

About: A remake of the 1980 film and musical, Fame follows a group of students at a performing arts high school as they struggle to make their dreams come true.

Why It Flopped: The 2009 version of Fame lacked the emotional depth and cultural impact of the original. While it tried to update the musical with modern music and issues, the result was a flat, forgettable film. Audiences found the characters underdeveloped, and the music didn’t capture the same energy that made the 1980s version so iconic.

9. Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)

About: The highly anticipated sequel to Joker (2019), this movie features Joaquin Phoenix reprising his role as the iconic villain, this time with Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn in a musical take on the psychological thriller.

Why It Flopped: While the concept of a musical about the Joker was a bold choice, it left many fans confused. The dark, brooding tone of the first film didn’t mesh well with the musical elements, and critics found the transition to song and dance jarring. Despite the star power of Phoenix and Gaga, the movie’s tonal inconsistency led to mixed reviews and limited commercial success.

10. The Wiz (1978)

About: A funky, all-Black musical adaptation of The Wizard of Oz starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson.

Why It Flopped: While The Wiz has since gained a cult following, its initial release was a box-office disaster. The film’s production value was questioned, with many feeling that it didn’t live up to the Broadway hit. The music and performances were a mixed bag, and the visuals were too fantastical for some audiences, leading to its failure at the box office.

11. Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018)

About: The sequel to Mamma Mia! brings back the original cast for another round of ABBA hits, along with a younger version of Donna (played by Lily James).

Why It Flopped: While the first Mamma Mia! was a massive hit, the sequel failed to capture the same magic. Despite its catchy music and stellar cast, the plot felt disjointed, and the appeal of the first film didn’t quite carry over. Fans of the original were disappointed by the lack of chemistry and a storyline that didn’t live up to expectations.