Hairspray could have easily been the best musical of the year as its incredibly upbeat visuals, music and performances are easily the best in the category. This adaptation of the musical features a positive message of tolerance: people different from us should not be feared but should be treated equally. How can you say no to such a message? The movie wants us to be racially tolerant, accept interracial couples, persons who are weight-challenged, and drag John Travolta in a fat suit.
I was afraid going into the movie that the casting of John Travolta as the mother of the heroine was just a gimmick, but his performance was surprisingly good. He was believable as an overweight woman who is afraid to go outside due to her fear of being ridiculed, and even his scenes with Christopher Walken were simply well done, without being too creepy. Of course it helps to star opposite of THE Christopher Walken…
Set in 1962, the heroine is Tracy Turnblad, an incredibly cheerful high school student who dreams of dancing on "The Corny Collins Show". She finally gets a break even though the station manager Velma (played by Michelle Pfeiffer who is perfect as the villain of the story) disapproves of her. She starts advocating for racial integration on the show through songs and dance numbers. Everyone’s performances are just right and believable: if you enjoy Broadway shows, musicals or just old-fashioned dance numbers, make sure to watch this movie that is miles better than the musical it is based on.
Rating: 85%
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