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10 Great Rock Videos Featuring Movie Stars in Guest Appearances presents a showcase of legendary music videos featuring some of the silver screen’s biggest stars. Of course, hundreds of videos that include clips from movies have been created because the songs are related to a Hollywood film in some way. However, you won’t find those on this list; this article focuses on actual guest appearances in the videos. Additionally, none of these songs have anything to do with Hollywood movies—they are songs that stand on their own but happen to feature some of Hollywood’s most famous faces.
Is it true that all rock stars want to be movie stars, and all movie stars want to be rock stars? You’d have to ask them, but you would likely find plenty of truth in that idea for some. And if you don’t believe it, just watch the videos below.
# 10 – Crazy – Aerosmith
“Crazy,” one of Aerosmith’s most iconic tracks from their 1993 album Get a Grip, became equally famous for its music video, which played a crucial role in defining the visual style of ’90s rock. Recorded at Little Mountain Sound Studios in Vancouver and produced by Bruce Fairbairn, “Crazy” showcases the band’s signature blues-rock sound, driven by Steven Tyler’s raspy vocals, Joe Perry’s guitar work, Tom Hamilton on bass, Brad Whitford on rhythm guitar, and Joey Kramer on drums. The song was a commercial success, reaching number 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning the 1994 MTV Video Music Award for Best Video from a Film, as well as a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
The “Crazy” music video, directed by Marty Callner, features two future movie stars: Alicia Silverstone and Liv Tyler, Steven Tyler’s daughter. Released in 1994, the video quickly gained traction on MTV, not just for its catchy tune, but also for the dynamic presence of Silverstone and Tyler, who brought a mix of youthful rebellion, charm, and carefree spirit to the storyline. The plot follows the two as they skip school, steal a convertible, and embark on a spontaneous road trip filled with playful mischief, seduction, and adventure. They stop at a gas station, perform an impromptu striptease, rob the cash register, and make a grand getaway, encapsulating a fantasy of youthful freedom and defiance.
Silverstone, who had already starred in Aerosmith’s videos for “Cryin'” and “Amazing,” was no stranger to the band’s music video universe, but “Crazy” cemented her status as a 1990s icon. For Liv Tyler, then just sixteen, the video marked her first major appearance, foreshadowing the successful acting career that lay ahead, including roles in films like Empire Records and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The chemistry between Silverstone and Tyler added a fresh, spirited dynamic to the video, captivating viewers and elevating it beyond a mere promotional tool for the song. Critically, the video was lauded for its playful narrative and stylish cinematography, with Rolling Stone calling it “a perfectly packaged slice of youthful rebellion set to a rock soundtrack.”
“Crazy” remains a classic example of how a music video can enhance the cultural impact of a song, thanks in large part to the charismatic performances of Silverstone and Tyler. Their screen presence, combined with Aerosmith’s timeless rock ballad, created a visual and musical phenomenon that continues to be celebrated decades later.
“Angry,” the lead single from The Rolling Stones’ 2023 album Hackney Diamonds, made waves not only for its classic rock sound but also for its captivating music video, which features the rising star Sydney Sweeney. Directed by Francois Rousselet, the video unfolds on the iconic streets of Los Angeles, placing Sweeney front and center in a narrative that combines glamour, nostalgia, and a rebellious edge. Filmed against the backdrop of a moving convertible, the video blends modern-day Hollywood allure with the legendary swagger of The Rolling Stones, creating a visual experience that feels both contemporary and timeless.
The music video for “Angry” opens with Sweeney, known for her breakout roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus, cruising down Sunset Boulevard in a cherry-red convertible, lip-syncing the song’s lyrics with a fierce, playful energy. As she drives past billboards that morph into dynamic images of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood performing, the video cleverly integrates the Stones’ past and present, serving as a tribute to their enduring legacy. Sweeney’s presence is magnetic; her expressions shift between defiance and delight, perfectly capturing the song’s themes of frustration and resilience. Dressed in a black leather outfit that recalls the rock and roll aesthetic, Sweeney brings an intensity and charisma that makes her an ideal choice to channel the song’s energy.
“Angry” was recorded at Henson Recording Studios in Los Angeles, with the production helmed by Andrew Watt. The track features Mick Jagger on vocals, Keith Richards on guitar, Ronnie Wood on bass, and Steve Jordan on drums. Musically, the song returns to The Rolling Stones’ roots, featuring raw guitar riffs, a driving rhythm section, and Jagger’s unmistakable vocal delivery. The recording has been praised for its blend of classic Stones’ swagger with a contemporary edge, a sound that aligns perfectly with the video’s visual style. The combination of Sweeney’s star power and the band’s timeless rock sound generated significant buzz, propelling “Angry” onto various rock charts around the world and securing its place as a standout track from Hackney Diamonds.
Critically, the video for “Angry” has been hailed as a smart move by The Rolling Stones, leveraging Sweeney’s rising celebrity to connect with a younger audience while simultaneously celebrating the band’s six-decade-long career. The video was praised by Rolling Stone magazine for its “clever integration of past and present, proving that The Rolling Stones are as relevant and rebellious as ever.” With Sweeney’s bold performance driving the narrative, the “Angry” video manages to capture both the timeless appeal of rock and the excitement of discovering something new. Positioned in our article on rock videos featuring movie stars, “Angry” stands as a reminder that The Rolling Stones are still capable of commanding attention and pushing creative boundaries, even after all these years.
“Wake Me Up When September Ends,” the poignant single from Green Day’s 2004 album American Idiot, is accompanied by a powerful music video featuring actress Evan Rachel Wood. Directed by Samuel Bayer, who also directed the videos for “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and “Holiday,” the “Wake Me Up When September Ends” video adds a narrative depth to the song’s themes of loss, love, and the passing of time. Released in 2005, the video stars Wood alongside actor Jamie Bell, known for his breakout role in Billy Elliot. Together, they deliver emotionally charged performances that elevate the song’s message and ensure its place as one of the most memorable music videos of the 2000s.
The video’s narrative centers around a young couple, played by Wood and Bell, whose love is tested by the harsh realities of life. Beginning with tender moments of intimacy and youthful exuberance, the video soon shifts to a scene where Bell’s character enlists in the military, leaving Wood’s character behind. The decision leads to an emotional conflict, as the couple grapples with the strain of separation, fear, and uncertainty brought about by war. Wood’s performance is especially compelling; she captures a range of emotions, from innocent joy to gut-wrenching despair, providing a relatable face to the universal themes of love and loss. Her portrayal gives the video a grounded emotional core, effectively enhancing the song’s lyrical content about longing, grief, and the passage of time.
Filmed in Los Angeles, the video juxtaposes scenes of the couple’s idyllic love with stark, raw images of war and conflict, creating a contrast that intensifies the narrative’s emotional impact. Bayer’s direction is cinematic, using slow-motion shots, muted color palettes, and intense close-ups to capture the nuances of the characters’ emotional journey. Critics praised the video for its storytelling and emotional resonance, with Rolling Stone calling it “a visual anthem for a generation affected by war and loss.” The video’s release came at a time when the Iraq War was a central topic in American life, and it resonated with audiences who saw their own struggles and fears reflected in the characters’ story.
# 7 – Into the Great Wide Open – Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
“Into the Great Wide Open” by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers is not only a beloved rock anthem but also features one of the most memorable music videos of the early 1990s, starring Johnny Depp. Directed by Julien Temple, who is known for his work with the Sex Pistols and David Bowie, the video complements the narrative of the song with a mini-movie that explores the rise and fall of a young aspiring rock star. Depp, fresh off his success in 21 Jump Street and on the brink of becoming a Hollywood icon, plays the protagonist Eddie Rebel, a young man who heads to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams of fame and fortune. The video also features cameos from a range of celebrities, including Faye Dunaway as Eddie’s overzealous manager and Gabrielle Anwar as his girlfriend.
Filmed in Los Angeles, the video begins with Petty himself, playing a storyteller who narrates the tale of Eddie Rebel, a high school dropout who moves to Hollywood to “find a dream.” The story unfolds as Eddie, played by Depp, quickly gains success in the music industry, signing a record deal, and achieving stardom. However, his rise to fame is fraught with excess, manipulation, and the pressures of the entertainment world, eventually leading to his downfall. Depp captures the evolution of Eddie Rebel with an expressive performance that shifts from wide-eyed optimism to disillusionment and rebellion. His natural charisma, coupled with Temple’s stylistic direction, draws viewers into the character’s journey, making it a compelling companion to the song’s themes of ambition and lost innocence.
Tom Petty’s role in the video is multi-layered. He not only narrates the story but also appears in various roles, including a tattoo artist, a record executive, and a roadie, bringing a whimsical touch to the otherwise cautionary tale. The use of a star-studded cast and a storyline reminiscent of a Hollywood film gives the video a cinematic quality, blending humor, drama, and a sense of caution about the pitfalls of fame. The music video premiered on MTV in 1991 and quickly became a fan favorite, earning praise for its creativity and for Depp’s standout performance. Rolling Stone hailed it as “a smart, visually engaging story that reflects the music industry’s ruthless nature and the dreams of those who try to make it.”
“Into the Great Wide Open” became one of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers’ most enduring hits, thanks in part to the success of the music video. The song, recorded at Rumbo Recorders in Los Angeles and produced by Jeff Lynne, Petty, and Mike Campbell, peaked at number four on the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart. The video helped cement its place in pop culture by offering a narrative that spoke to the allure and dangers of fame.
“Shadows of the Night,” one of Pat Benatar’s most iconic hits, is elevated by its music video, which features a surprising appearance by a young Judge Reinhold and a then-up-and-coming Bill Paxton. Released in 1982 as the lead single from her album Get Nervous, the song quickly became a signature anthem for Benatar, climbing to number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1983. Directed by Mark Robinson, the music video takes the song’s themes of resilience and defiance and transposes them into a World War II setting, creating a compelling blend of rock music and historical drama that stands out on our list of rock videos featuring movie stars.
In the video, Benatar takes on the role of a Rosie the Riveter-style factory worker by day who becomes a daring Allied spy by night. Dressed in a pilot’s uniform, she leads a covert mission against the Nazis, complete with espionage, explosions, and heroic escapes. Judge Reinhold plays a fellow factory worker and secret agent, while Bill Paxton, in one of his earliest roles, appears as a Nazi officer. The video’s narrative, set in a wartime context, serves as a metaphor for empowerment and fighting against the odds, aligning perfectly with the anthemic spirit of the song.
Much like Annie Lennox’s “Walking on Broken Glass,” which also blends a dramatic narrative with a bit of camp, “Shadows of the Night” uses historical references and costuming to create a unique visual style. However, where Lennox’s video takes a playful approach with its 18th-century setting, Benatar’s video is more straightforward in its heroism, channeling classic wartime adventure films. Benatar’s portrayal is earnest and bold, capturing the strength and spirit of her rock persona while paying homage to classic Hollywood depictions of bravery and resilience.
The video for “Shadows of the Night” also shares a sense of ambition with Tom Petty’s “Into the Great Wide Open,” which features Johnny Depp’s rise and fall in the modern music industry. Both videos use narrative storytelling to expand on the themes of their songs, but Benatar’s choice to set her story in World War II adds a unique twist, blending rock music with period drama in a way that was relatively new for music videos of the early ’80s.
“You Can Call Me Al,” the lead single from Paul Simon’s 1986 album Graceland, is one of the most iconic music videos of the 1980s, featuring an unforgettable performance by comedian and actor Chevy Chase. Directed by Gary Weis, who had previously worked with Simon on Saturday Night Live, the video is set in a simple, bare room with Simon and Chase sitting side by side. The minimalist setup is deceptive; the real charm comes from the unexpected twist of having Chevy Chase lip-sync the lyrics with exaggerated enthusiasm while Simon plays a supporting role, often looking bemused or frustrated.
The video begins with Chase, in a brightly colored sweater, taking center stage as he confidently mimes to Simon’s vocals with comically over-the-top gestures and expressions. Meanwhile, Simon, sitting beside him, plays a series of musical instruments, including a bass guitar and a penny whistle, seemingly resigned to being upstaged by his taller, more flamboyant companion. The comedic interplay between the two is the heart of the video; Simon, a small and serious figure, contrasts sharply with Chase’s broad, comedic style, creating a visual gag that captures the viewer’s attention from the very first frame. Their deadpan expressions and the effortless comic timing between them add a layer of humor and charm that makes the video endlessly watchable.
Filmed in a single take with minimal cuts, the video’s simplicity is its strength. It stands in stark contrast to the more elaborate productions of the era, proving that sometimes less is more. The unexpected pairing of a rock musician and a comedy star like Chevy Chase was a masterstroke, capturing the zeitgeist of MTV’s heyday. The quirky yet memorable nature of the video helped “You Can Call Me Al” reach a broader audience, propelling the song up the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
“You Can Call Me Al” is now seen as a classic, not only for its musical innovation and cultural significance but also for its unique and enduring music video. The playful banter between Simon and Chase remains a perfect example of how music videos can enhance the appeal of a song, making it more memorable and accessible to a wide audience. As one of the standout videos that featured a movie star, it is a quintessential part of the 1980s music video landscape, blending humor, celebrity, and great music into a perfect pop culture moment.
Walking on Broken Glass” by Annie Lennox stands out on our list of rock videos featuring movie stars, not just for its star power but for its unique ability to merge high drama with comedic undertones, much like the playful yet iconic interplay between Paul Simon and Chevy Chase in “You Can Call Me Al.” While Simon and Chase relied on minimalism and humor, Lennox’s video, directed by Sophie Muller, leans heavily into the grandiosity and extravagance of 18th-century France, creating a lavish period drama complete with powdered wigs, extravagant costumes, and an elaborate ballroom setting.
Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Hugh Laurie and John Malkovich. Released in 1992 as the second single from Lennox’s debut solo album, Diva, the video, directed by Sophie Muller, is a visual feast that combines 18th-century opulence with a dash of humor, making it a standout among early 1990s music videos. The setting, costumes, and performances transform Lennox’s post-breakup anthem into a tongue-in-cheek pastiche of period drama, complete with lavish costumes, powdered wigs, and a distinctly aristocratic atmosphere.
The video is set in a grand, candlelit ballroom, reminiscent of the decadent court of Louis XVI, where Lennox appears as a jilted noblewoman, moving through the room with a blend of elegance and restrained anguish. Dressed in a deep red gown and a towering wig, Lennox’s portrayal of a woman spurned is both regal and poignant, underscoring the emotional turmoil of the lyrics. As she sings, “Walking on broken glass,” Lennox’s expressive gestures and piercing gaze convey the pain and defiance of a woman determined to rise above her heartbreak.
Hugh Laurie, best known for his later role in House, appears as a pompous aristocrat who seems oblivious to the drama unfolding around him. His comedic flair brings a touch of levity to the otherwise intense narrative, while John Malkovich, fresh from his role in Dangerous Liaisons (a film whose aesthetic clearly inspires the video’s visual style), plays a moody, enigmatic figure, exuding both arrogance and charm. Malkovich’s presence adds a layer of intrigue, as he casts knowing looks and appears to be entangled in a love triangle with Lennox’s character.
The video’s concept draws heavily on the aesthetic of period dramas, with a particular nod to the sumptuous visual style of Dangerous Liaisons. The choice of setting and characters is a clever move, blending Lennox’s powerful vocal performance with a visual narrative that is both humorous and theatrically dramatic. The ornate costumes, designed by Sandy Powell, and the elaborate set pieces enhance the video’s luxurious feel, while the exaggerated expressions and subtle comedic moments keep it grounded in a more playful tone.
“Walking on Broken Glass” went on to become one of Lennox’s most successful solo hits, reaching number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 8 on the UK Singles Chart. The video, meanwhile, solidified her reputation as an artist willing to take creative risks and challenge conventional ideas of what a music video could be. Positioned in our discussion of rock videos featuring movie stars, “Walking on Broken Glass” stands out not only for its celebrity cameos but also for its ability to convey complex emotions through a blend of music, humor, and high drama.
What makes “Walking on Broken Glass” particularly memorable among the videos on our list is how it uses its setting to amplify the song’s themes. While the Rolling Stones’ “Angry” makes clever use of a single star, Sydney Sweeney, in a modern Los Angeles setting, Lennox’s video brings together multiple celebrities in an ornate, period-specific world, showcasing how different eras and styles can be harnessed to tell a compelling story. The elegance and wit of Lennox’s approach create a rich tapestry that enhances the song’s exploration of love and loss, proving once again that a well-conceived video can elevate a song to new heights.
“Queenie Eye,” a vibrant track from Paul McCartney’s 2013 album New, is not only a reflection of the former Beatle’s enduring ability to craft infectious rock songs but also serves as the centerpiece for a visually stunning music video that brings together an eclectic mix of celebrity cameos. Directed by Simon Aboud, McCartney’s son-in-law and husband of his daughter Mary, the video was filmed in the iconic Abbey Road Studios, where much of The Beatles’ legendary work was recorded. The video’s setting, with its historic significance, provides a fitting backdrop for a celebration of music and star power.
The “Queenie Eye” video is remarkable for its ensemble cast of notable personalities from across the entertainment spectrum. Among the celebrities who appear are Johnny Depp and Kate Moss, who have previously appeared in music videos together and here are seen grooving to the song in a mix of cool detachment and uninhibited fun. Jeremy Irons, Chris Pine, Jude Law, and Sean Penn add a touch of Hollywood gravitas, each offering a unique flair to their appearances as they sway and sing along to the catchy chorus. Meryl Streep, one of cinema’s most revered actresses, brings her trademark charm, dancing with Tracey Ullman, whose comedic presence adds a delightful touch of humor.
The video also features James Corden, who is known for his musical antics and comedic flair, along with Alice Eve, who brings her own brand of elegance to the proceedings. Models like Lily Cole and Laura Bailey, as well as designer Tom Ford, lend a fashion-forward edge, while singer-songwriters George Ezra and Jack Savoretti, and Take That’s Gary Barlow, contribute a musical touch to the mix. Artist Peter Blake, famous for designing The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover, makes an appearance that adds a nod to McCartney’s storied past.
Directed with a loose, playful energy, the video captures each star enjoying the moment, dancing freely, and embracing the spirit of fun that the song embodies. As the music builds, the camera pans around the studio, revealing these famous faces one by one, dancing, laughing, and clearly having a great time. It’s a joyous celebration that feels like a gathering of friends in one of rock’s most hallowed spaces.
“I Want Love,” a powerful ballad from Elton John’s 2001 album Songs from the West Coast, is accompanied by a music video that captures its raw, introspective emotion in a starkly minimalist style. Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson (then Sam Taylor-Wood), the video features a single, continuous shot of actor Robert Downey Jr. as he lip-syncs to John’s vocals. Set in an empty mansion in Los Angeles, Downey Jr.’s solitary performance serves as the video’s focal point, using his subtle facial expressions and movements to convey the complex mix of longing, frustration, and vulnerability that the song’s lyrics suggest.
The video’s simplicity is its strength. Unlike the grand, period-piece setting of Annie Lennox’s “Walking on Broken Glass” or the dynamic, narrative-driven drama of Pat Benatar’s “Shadows of the Night,” “I Want Love” is deliberately stripped down to a single shot, offering an unadorned yet compelling portrait of an individual grappling with the desire for genuine connection. As Downey Jr. moves through the expansive, empty space of the mansion, the starkness of the setting reflects the song’s themes of isolation and yearning. His performance, filled with subtle nuances and a palpable sense of introspection, captures the song’s raw honesty in a way that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
At the time of the video’s release, Downey Jr. was in a highly publicized battle with addiction, which adds an additional layer of poignancy to the performance. His haunted expression and subdued demeanor suggest both fragility and resilience, mirroring the lyrics’ themes of wanting love without the complications that so often accompany it. Elton John’s choice to cast Downey Jr. in the video was a bold one, and it paid off; the actor’s understated yet emotionally charged performance drew praise from both critics and fans. Rolling Stone called the video “a brilliant use of a single, unbroken shot that allows the raw emotion of the song to resonate without distraction.”
Recorded at The Townhouse and Air Studios in London, “I Want Love” was produced by Patrick Leonard and marked a return to Elton John’s classic sound, featuring his distinctive piano playing, with additional contributions from longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin on lyrics. The song earned critical acclaim and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. The video played a significant role in revitalizing John’s career in the early 2000s, demonstrating that even after decades in the music industry, he was still capable of creating compelling, contemporary work that connected with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Among our list of rock videos featuring movie stars, “I Want Love” stands out for its minimalist approach, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the emotional content of the song and the captivating presence of Robert Downey Jr.
# 1 – My Sweet Lord – George Harrison
The 2021 music video for George Harrison’s iconic song “My Sweet Lord” is a star-studded tribute that brings together a remarkable array of movie stars, musicians, and other celebrities, creating a visually captivating narrative that honors Harrison’s legacy while playfully exploring themes of searching and enlightenment. Directed by Lance Bangs and released to celebrate the 50th anniversary of All Things Must Pass, the video features an impressive cast that includes Fred Armisen, Vanessa Bayer, Mark Hamill, Taika Waititi, Natasha Leggero, Ringo Starr, Darren Criss, Rosanna Arquette, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Jon Hamm, Reggie Watts, and Jeff Lynne, among others.
The plot of the video revolves around an investigation led by Fred Armisen and Vanessa Bayer, who play agents of a mysterious government bureau searching for something that is never explicitly revealed. The video is set in various locations around Los Angeles, with Armisen and Bayer moving from place to place, encountering numerous celebrities along the way. Mark Hamill, known for his role as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, plays a mysterious clerk in a record store, while Ringo Starr, Harrison’s former bandmate in The Beatles, makes a memorable appearance, adding a touch of warmth and nostalgia to the video. Jon Hamm, Taika Waititi, and Rosanna Arquette also contribute to the playful sense of adventure and the ongoing search for the unknown.
As the video progresses, it takes on a surreal, dreamlike quality, with each celebrity cameo adding a new layer of humor and intrigue. Throughout, the video maintains a sense of lighthearted fun, with many of the stars appearing slightly baffled, reflecting the song’s spiritual quest for understanding. The recurring motif of searching becomes a metaphor for the deeper meaning of life, love, and existence—concepts that Harrison explored throughout his career.
“My Sweet Lord” was originally released in 1970 on Harrison’s landmark album All Things Must Pass. The song was groundbreaking as it blended elements of rock, pop, and Indian spiritual music, becoming a global hit and reaching number one on charts in both the US and UK. The 2021 video breathes new life into this classic track, merging a sense of playfulness with deeper philosophical questions, much like Harrison himself often did. Critics praised the video for its inventive approach, with Rolling Stone calling it “a joyful celebration of George Harrison’s spirit, capturing both his humor and his devotion to exploring life’s great mysteries.”
As the final entry on our list of rock videos featuring movie stars, “My Sweet Lord” is a fitting tribute that encapsulates many of the elements seen in the other videos we’ve explored. Like Paul McCartney’s “Queenie Eye,” it draws on a wide range of celebrity cameos to create a communal celebration of music. Unlike the intense, narrative-driven approach of Pat Benatar’s “Shadows of the Night” or the minimalist intimacy of Elton John’s “I Want Love,” this video uses humor and a star-studded ensemble to convey its themes.
In this way, “My Sweet Lord” stands out not only for its impressive cast but for its ability to honor Harrison’s unique blend of wit, spirituality, and musical brilliance. It’s a fitting wasy to close this article.
Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.