"Hairspray", the outrageous John Waters 1988 film, was made into a musical for the Broadway stage. It was a huge success that doesn't show any signs of disappearing. The Broadway version, rather than the original film, is recreated for the present remake. Where the original film was irreverent and campy, this one is quite different in tone. Thanks to its director/choreographer, Adam Shankman, the new remake plays and feels like a musical should.
Part of the success of the present "Hairspray" is the great characterization by John Travolta, who as Edna Turnblad is sensational. He is never obnoxious, which is to his credit not to have shortchanged his Edna with superfluous mannerisms. We realize Edna is played by a man, but sometimes it is difficult to separate both, the actor and the character. This is a triumph for Mr. Travolta, an man that always delivers.
The other surprise was Michelle Pfeiffer who appears as the mean spirited Velma Von Tussle. Ms. Pfeiffer has never been so much fun to watch as the horrid woman who doesn't seem to realize her daughter has no talent, but wants to impose her at all costs. This is one of the best moments of this actress on film.
As Tracy, the newcomer Nikki Blonski is perfect for the part. She dances up a storm. She has a sweet face that endears herself to the audience from the start in her "Good Morning Baltimore". She shows an energy that is hard to match. Also incredible is Queen Latifah, a welcome presence in any film. As Motormouth Maybelle, she does a wonderful job. James Marsden who is seen as the Dick Clark prototype and Zac Efron, a promising new star, are perfect for their parts. Jerry Stiller, the only surviving member of the original film shows up. Allison Janney has a couple of good moments too.
This is a fun film to watch and it's highly recommended for the excellent dancing created by Adam Shankman.
Part of the success of the present "Hairspray" is the great characterization by John Travolta, who as Edna Turnblad is sensational. He is never obnoxious, which is to his credit not to have shortchanged his Edna with superfluous mannerisms. We realize Edna is played by a man, but sometimes it is difficult to separate both, the actor and the character. This is a triumph for Mr. Travolta, an man that always delivers.
The other surprise was Michelle Pfeiffer who appears as the mean spirited Velma Von Tussle. Ms. Pfeiffer has never been so much fun to watch as the horrid woman who doesn't seem to realize her daughter has no talent, but wants to impose her at all costs. This is one of the best moments of this actress on film.
As Tracy, the newcomer Nikki Blonski is perfect for the part. She dances up a storm. She has a sweet face that endears herself to the audience from the start in her "Good Morning Baltimore". She shows an energy that is hard to match. Also incredible is Queen Latifah, a welcome presence in any film. As Motormouth Maybelle, she does a wonderful job. James Marsden who is seen as the Dick Clark prototype and Zac Efron, a promising new star, are perfect for their parts. Jerry Stiller, the only surviving member of the original film shows up. Allison Janney has a couple of good moments too.
This is a fun film to watch and it's highly recommended for the excellent dancing created by Adam Shankman.