45. A Star Is Born (Judy Garland) (1954)

Judy Garland's triumphant return after being sacked by MGM in 1950 is a three hour musical epic. She plays a showgirl spotted by fading star James Mason and nurtured to stardom. As her fame grows however, he sinks further and further into alcoholism and depression. The 10-month gruelling shoot doesn't show and Garland demonstrates that, even at the end of her career, her star could still shine brightly.

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44. Tommy (1975)

The Who bring us psychedelic rock opera in this totally over-the-top musical about a deaf, dumb and blind kid who becomes a near deity. Tommy discovers a talent for pinball and despite his disability is soon whipping Elton John on the machines. With loud songs by The Who and lunatic direction from Ken Russell, Tommy is unique.

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43. Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs (1937)

"Hi ho, hi ho, it's off to work we go." Disney's 1937 first feature-length cartoon is still a classic. Snow White enrages her vein wicked stepmother for being "the fairest of them all", but is saved by a group of seven dwarfs. Snow White has it all, great songs, poisoned apples, helpful forest creatures, Prince Charming and short blokes with funny names.
Image copyright: Disney.

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42. Starlight Express

Another hit conceived by the dynamic duo of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Richard Stilgoe, Starlight Express is the second longest running musical in British Theatre history. It’s an extravaganza of roller skates and hi tech sets, that tells the tale of Rusty, a dilapidated old engine, who's encouraged to race a spiffy new diesel locomotive. A unique, fast paced show full of energy and verve.

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41. Carousel (1956)

Fifteen years after he was killed in a bungled robbery - attempting to raise money to scrape a living for himself and his pregnant wife - Billy Bigelow (Gordon MacRae - fresh from success in Oklahoma! the previous year) is given one day to return to the living to take care of unfinished business. Attending his daughter's graduation, will he find an opportunity to make amends? The classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical is lavishly transferred to the big screen, its dark, emotional themes and complex characterisation combining well with memorable tunes, including Liverpool FC's favourite, You'll Never Walk Alone.

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