Hairspray (1988)

Another John Water's Classic 

Hairspray

     If your looking for John Travola singing in a dress this is not the movie you are looking for. This is the movie that started the whole thing. Hairspray you know part of the story, now look deeper into this 80's film. 

     Set in 1963 Baltimore, Maryland, its the hefty story of Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake), wanting to bust the buttons that hold convention. Though this soundtrack might not be as catchy as its successor,it still offers a great collection that will transport you to the sounds of yester-year. Joined by a star studded cast including: 

Ricki Lake as Tracy Turnblad

Devine as Edna Turnblad

Jerry Stiller as Wilbur Turnblad

Sonny Bono and Debbie Harry as the Von Tussles

      This rendition really focuses on what it meant to be "normal" for the day and age, and the ugly truth of what it meant to be "coloured" in the 60's. Tracy has enough on her plate, with the angst of being a teenager, and trying to fit in, while trying to be true to who you want to be. From home to dances, she refuses to be anything but herself. Which lands her on The Corny Collin's Show. With her dreams at her finger tips life has never seemed better. 

     Tracy returns to school, to rumors and dress codes, which lands our plus sized princess into a whole new class of people. She learns the other side, Coloured kids and rebels. Ridicule can be hard for a high school student. But Tracy is aware of one thing, nothing can keep you down as long as you believe in yourself and hold steady to your convictions. Not only is Tracy's hair something frowned upon, but so are her views on integration. Her new fame throws her views into public spotlight and scrutiny.   

     If you loved the musical, this movie is sure to please, with its strong views on Racial equality, and how sometimes, bigger than life is just the right size.