Hairspray (imdb)
So I was a bit late in the game to see this one, but last week I managed to get myself to an afternoon showing of Hairspray. What a delight! This fun flick spells happiness with its bright visuals and upbeat music. While I’m not a huge fan of musicals in general, Hairspray won me over, and it was a completely entertaining and fully engaging experience.
Hairspray follows the story of Tracy Turnblad, a spunky girl with a desire to dance on the Corny Collins TV show. As her aspirations become reality, we watch Tracy go in the running of the Ms. Teenage Hairspray contest.
Hairspray is so fun to watch with its capable and entertaining cast. John Travolta is completely effective as Tracy’s mom, Edna, and Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, and Amanda Bynes are similarly great. The other supporting cast members keep up, and even Allison Janney’s short appearances in the film are exceptional. Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky) is a phenomenal talent with her shining attitude and stunning voice.
For a movie musical with some social commentary (dealing with race relations and integration), Hairspray continues to be a light and lovable movie, never becoming preachy or tiresome. This movie has so much positive energy you can’t help but get into it. The film is the feel good movie of the year (so far) and well worth a look.
Go out and see Hairspray if your local theater still has it showing. If not, find a second run theater. Then see it on DVD! Hairspray is too much fun to pass by, and you’ll be smiling before you know it. Oh yeah, the music is great too!
4-4.5 Penny’s lollipops out of 5
September 5th, 2007 at 4:44 am
I completely agree. I didn’t expect much from this little film and was surprised to find myself tapping my toes and moving along to the happy beat of this predictable yet enjoyable story. A good surprise!