Iconic Guitar Scenes From The Big Screen

The Beatles' iconic television debut on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1964 ignited a guitar revolution, inspiring millions to pick up the instrument. However, beyond television, cinema has also captured unforgettable guitar moments, often embedding them in the cultural zeitgeist.

Here are 100 legendary guitar scenes from films that left an indelible mark on music lovers, in no particular order.

1. Purple Rain (1984)

*Purple Rain* (1984) is an iconic music drama starring Prince, whose electrifying performance of the title track “Purple Rain” became legendary. During this climactic scene, Prince wields his iconic cloud guitar, delivering a deeply emotional solo that blends rock, soul, and pop. The guitar is central to this performance, which symbolizes his character’s personal and musical evolution. Prince's virtuosic playing, combined with the raw emotion of the song, cements this scene as one of the most memorable guitar moments in film history.

2. Steve Vai in Crossroads (1986)

Steve Vai’s role in *Crossroads* as Jack Butler, the devil’s guitarist, is nothing short of legendary, especially during the climactic guitar duel scene. What many don’t realize is that while Ralph Macchio's character, Eugene, emerges victorious in the film, it’s actually Vai who performs both the complex virtuoso guitar parts and Macchio's winning solo, “Eugene’s Trick Bag.” Behind the scenes, Vai meticulously instructed Macchio on where to place his fingers, choreographing his movements to make it appear as though the actor was playing the intricate passages.

In reality, Vai's technical wizardry was dubbed over the scene, seamlessly synced to Macchio’s finger movements for authenticity. While Ry Cooder played the soulful slide parts, it was Vai’s electric shred that brought the duel to life. His portrayal of Jack Butler—sinister, charismatic, and explosively talented—cemented his reputation as one of the finest guitarists in the world. Despite Macchio's character walking away the winner in the story, it's Vai’s fiery solos and jaw-dropping skill that steal the show and leave a lasting impact on guitar enthusiasts everywhere.

3. Jimmy Page & Jeff Beck in Blow-Up (1966)

While *Blow-Up* may not be the most celebrated cinematic masterpiece, it delivered one of the coolest moments in rock history. The film features The Yardbirds, showcasing Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck, two of the most revered British guitar gods. As they tear into "Stroll On" (an altered version of "Train Kept A-Rollin'"), Beck famously smashes his guitar in frustration, while Page, in contrast, cradles his Telecaster like a newborn. This scene foreshadows Page’s future greatness, as just a couple of years later, he would form the legendary Led Zeppelin.

4. Michael J. Fox in Back to the Future (1985)

In one of the most beloved time-travel films of all time, *Back to the Future*, Michael J. Fox's character, Marty McFly, performs "Johnny B. Goode" at the school dance. Blending Chuck Berry’s classic rock and roll with Van Halen-inspired licks, McFly leaves the 1950s audience in disbelief. The scene is not just a clever nod to rock history but also an exhilarating blend of old-school and modern guitar techniques. Behind the scenes, Paul Hanson provided the real guitar work, helping to create one of cinema’s most enjoyable guitar sequences.

5. Nigel Tufnel in This Is Spinal Tap (1984)

*This Is Spinal Tap* brilliantly satirized the rock world, and no one did it better than Nigel Tufnel. In one of the film’s most famous scenes, Tufnel explains the genius behind his guitar solos, leading to a performance that’s as comical as it is chaotic. Armed with a violin and a guitar, he engages in a bizarre, disjointed jam session that humorously tips its hat to the experimental antics of real-life guitar heroes. Tufnel’s line, “These go to eleven,” remains a favorite among guitarists, referencing his custom amplifier’s extra level of volume.

6. School of Rock (2003)

*School of Rock* (2003) features Jack Black as a substitute teacher who transforms a classroom of children into a rock band. While the film is packed with fun, high-energy performances, the guitar playing doesn't always hit the mark for more discerning viewers. Jack Black’s comedic energy is infectious, and the movie captures the rebellious spirit of rock and roll, but the technical guitar work often takes a backseat to the humor and story. Despite this, it remains a cult favorite, especially among younger audiences.

7. Chuck Berry in Go, Johnny, Go! (1959)

Chuck Berry is the undisputed star of *Go, Johnny, Go!* and the movie’s title is inspired by his hit song "Johnny B. Goode." In the film, Berry performs his legendary guitar-driven rock and roll, showcasing the electrifying riffs and dynamic stage presence that would influence generations of guitarists. His performance of "Little Queenie" remains one of the defining moments of the movie, immortalizing him as one of the most important pioneers of rock and roll guitar.

8. Jimi Hendrix at The Monterey Pop Festival (1967)

Jimi Hendrix’s performance at the Monterey Pop Festival was a defining moment of the 1960s. Hendrix, already a rising star, shared the stage with The Who, famously settling backstage who would close the show. His rendition of "Wild Thing," complete with his ritualistic burning of his Stratocaster, became an enduring image of rock’s shift from the 50s to the electric revolution of the 60s. Hendrix’s uninhibited performance redefined guitar performance art, blending aggression, mysticism, and showmanship like no one before him.

9. Carlos Santana in Woodstock (1970)

The 1970 documentary Woodstock immortalized Santana’s mesmerizing performance during the 1969 festival. Carlos Santana, just 22 years old, took the stage after reportedly consuming a heavy dose of LSD. Despite being under the influence, his performance of "Soul Sacrifice" remains one of the most intense guitar showcases in rock history. Santana’s signature Gibson SG seemed to come alive, and his wild expressions and seamless improvisations proved he was a natural-born virtuoso, even when battling hallucinations.

10. Alvin Lee in Woodstock (1970)

Another standout moment from the Woodstock film belongs to Alvin Lee, frontman of Ten Years After. Known for his rapid-fire playing, Lee delivered a searing performance of "I'm Going Home," setting a new standard for speed and energy on the guitar. Lee’s blazing riffs and bluesy intensity captivated the massive crowd and cemented his status as one of the era’s most exciting guitarists. In retrospect, his frenetic style paved the way for future virtuosos, including Swedish shredder Yngwie Malmsteen.

11. Jimi Hendrix in Woodstock (1970)

Hendrix’s second appearance on this list is well-deserved, thanks to his breathtaking performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Woodstock. This unorthodox rendition transformed the national anthem into a commentary on the political and social turmoil of the late 60s. With feedback, distortion, and whammy bar dives, Hendrix conjured images of bombs dropping and chaos erupting, yet somehow maintained the melody's integrity. This performance not only showcased Hendrix’s genius but also his ability to tap into the cultural pulse of the time.

12. David Gilmour in Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii (1974)

Pink Floyd’s concert film Live at Pompeii stands as a hauntingly beautiful visual and sonic experience. Set in the ruins of an ancient Roman amphitheater, the band performs without an audience, except for the ghosts of the past. David Gilmour’s otherworldly guitar tone shines on tracks like "Echoes," with close-ups of his iconic black Stratocaster. Gilmour’s emotive, spacious playing, combined with the eerie volcanic backdrop, made this performance a landmark in cinematic concert history.

13. Jimmy Page in The Song Remains the Same (1976)

Few live concert films are as enigmatic as The Song Remains the Same, with Jimmy Page’s performance standing out as a defining image of the guitar hero archetype. Page delivers unforgettable moments, from his double-neck Gibson SG to his Theremin-fueled improvisations. Perhaps the most mesmerizing moment comes when Page uses a violin bow on his Les Paul during "Dazed and Confused," creating an ethereal sound that leaves audiences in awe. The film showcases all the elements that made Page a guitar legend—virtuosity, mysticism, and unparalleled stage presence.

14. The Crow (1994)

In *The Crow* (1994), Eric Draven, portrayed by Brandon Lee, delivers a haunting guitar solo atop a rooftop during a stormy night. This scene captures the emotional weight of the character's journey for vengeance and redemption. The atmospheric guitar playing in this moment reflects Draven’s pain and rage, blending beautifully with the film's dark and gothic visuals. The guitar solo has since become an iconic part of the film’s aesthetic, adding a layer of raw intensity to the character's narrative arc.

15. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

*Mad Max: Fury Road* (2015) features one of the wildest and most unforgettable guitar moments in cinema history with the character known as the Doof Warrior. Armed with a flame-throwing electric guitar, he shreds through battle scenes as part of Immortan Joe’s war convoy. The Doof Warrior, visually striking and musically intense, adds a chaotic energy to the film, making the guitar not only a musical instrument but also a weapon of destruction. This blend of music and action amplifies the movie's frenetic pace and post-apocalyptic aesthetic.

-- Øssi Wika