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Broadway Shows Based on Movies (2026)

From animated Disney classics to indie cult films, Hollywood has long inspired Broadway productions. These 5 shows bring beloved movies to the stage with spectacular results.

5 shows | Last updated: October 2026

How We Rank

Rankings are based on CriticScore, an aggregate of professional reviews from 400+ outlets including The New York Times, Vulture, and Variety. Top-tier outlets carry the most weight in the composite score. Each show needs a minimum number of reviews to qualify. Scores are recalculated weekly. Learn more about our methodology.

1
The Lion King Broadway musical

The Lion King

NOW PLAYINGMUSICAL

Minskoff Theatre · 2h 30m

85
Audience:A

Critics hail Julie Taymor's staging as a theatrical marvel, with visionary puppetry and stunning visual spectacle that transcends its animated source. While some find it less engaging emotionally, most agree it's an astonishing achievement.

2
The Outsiders Broadway musical

The Outsiders

NOW PLAYINGMUSICAL

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre · 2h 30m

Closes Mar 12, 2027

70
Audience:A+

Critics are divided on this adaptation of S.E. Hinton's novel, praising Danya Taymor's visceral direction and the thrilling rumble choreography, but many find the familiar story competent yet forgettable, inevitably recalling "West Side Story."

3
Aladdin Broadway musical

Aladdin

NOW PLAYINGMUSICAL

New Amsterdam Theatre · 2h 30m

69
Audience:B+

Critics find Disney's "Aladdin" an entertaining if formulaic spectacle, elevated by James Monroe Iglehart's show-stealing performance as the Genie and impressive production values, though some feel it lacks the magic of the original film.

4
Stranger Things: The First Shadow Broadway play

Stranger Things: The First Shadow

NOW PLAYINGPLAY

Marquis Theatre · 2h 45m

Closes Jan 3, 2027

65
Audience:A+

Critics are divided on this effects-heavy prequel, praising its spectacular stagecraft and technical wizardry while questioning whether the convoluted plot works for non-fans. Most agree it's a sensory spectacle, but opinions split on substance.

5
The Great Gatsby Broadway musical

The Great Gatsby

NOW PLAYINGMUSICAL

Broadway Theatre · 2h 30m

Closes Mar 11, 2027

58
Audience:B+

Critics find this lavish Gatsby musical visually dazzling but emotionally hollow, prioritizing spectacle over substance. The production delivers impressive sets and costumes but struggles to capture Fitzgerald's deeper themes.