Viewed in
2007
Premise
In 1960's Baltimore, and pudgy girl dances her way onto the local 'American Bandstand' show then decides to integrate the show.
Who should watch
John Waters fans. Fans of the musical.
Thoughts
This was a fun, quirky film that managed to handle some serious issues lightly yet with respect. I laughed a lot at the many twisted scenes and dialog, especially the rivalry between the main character and her archnemesis from the show.
What I enjoyed the most was the casting, including John Waters, Sonny Bono and Debbie Harry. Ricki Lake was very likeable as the lead. And Divine was very interesting as the mom, because he/she did not need a fat suit. Last but not least, there was one of the greatest 'What the hell?' moments in cinema history with the hysterical and mind-boggling cameos of Pia Zadora and Ric Ocasek as stoned beatniks.
Comparing the two 'Hairspray' films, both were very funny in their own way. The 1988 version had a darker, twisted sense of humor, while the 2007 version had an infectious good feeling. Personally I liked the newer one better because it had great musical numbers and a cast I could relate to more.
NOTE: While it technically was not a musical, music played it big part.
What I would change
Nothing.
