Ever since Hollywood made the transition to sound in 1927 with The Jazz Singer, audiences have been in love with the musical. A popular genre in all generations, musicals have continually reinvented themselves while retaining the classic components of lavish numbers, catchy songs and wild spectacle.

Over the years, the genre has given rise to some of classic Hollywood’s most popular stars. Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, and Judy Garland were all catapulted to iconic status based on musicals like Top Hat (1935), Singin’ in the Rain (1952) and Meet Me in St. Louis (1954).

While many films were centered around show business itself, some like Cabaret (1972) and The King and I (1956) chose historical events as their backdrop. Of course, one of the most famous musicals of all time, West Side Story (1961), drew its inspiration from the greatest writer of the English language, William Shakespeare.

Whether a casual fan or an ardent enthusiast, there is a musical film for just about anyone’s taste.

Oscar winner Liza Minnelli as Sally Bowles in ‘Cabaret’ (1972)/Warner Bros.