Hairspray (1988)

Hairspray

• John Waters, you diva. First off, can we point out how this man made the Trash Trilogy, some of the most obscene and nasty films ever made, and then just a few years later, jumped into a visually colorful PG comedy? That’s just mind blowing to me. His range is truly incredible, and I respect the hell out of him. It’s kind of like how David Lynch did ‘Blue Velvet’ and ‘Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me’, and then did a G rated, feel good Disney film. Anyways, I had a blast with this specific film, and though it’s my least favorite of Waters’ filmography (as of this review), it’s still very memorable. It makes you feel something deep down in your soul because of how gorgeous it is. It’s visually stunning, with very bright costumes, awesome sets, and just an overall aesthetically pleasing environment. Not only that, but it has a strong message of anti-racism, while still being lighthearted and very cheerful. I swear I was smiling for half the film. You just can’t help but tap your foot and get into the moment. The story is literally so quick and to the point, and you don’t really have to think too much about it. It’s basically just teen dancing being used to promote integration. The dialogue is simple and over the top, and the exaggerated acting helps elevate this to a very memorable campiness level. You know, the thing that John Waters is best at. Ricki Lake (in her film debut, by the way) is phenomenal, and probably one of my favorite female leading roles from the 80’s. It’s not really anything award worthy (no offense to her), but she’s just so full of joy and power, and I want to be her. Throw in Debbie Harry, Jerry Stiller, and Dreamlander Mink Stole, and you start to round off the cast with hilarious and campy talent (I’m going to stress the camp). And above all, bring in the wonderful and iconic Divine, who has one of the strongest on-screen presences in film history. He took that role and ran with it, and no one will ever come close to being as great as he is. Finally, the soundtrack is stuffed full of 60’s hits that are the finishing touch to the vintage aesthetic and atmosphere. Overall, this is a film that surprised me completely (because of Waters’ range, as I mentioned before), and it’s gonna live in my head rent free for the next couple days. I would recommend this to all comedy fans, and just remember: John Waters is the BLUEPRINT. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!