On this day February 26 1989 Hairspray premiered in theaters bringing director John Waters’ unique vision to a wider audience. Unlike his earlier underground cult films Hairspray was more accessible but still retained his signature offbeat humor and social commentary. The film starred Ricki Lake in her breakout role alongside an unforgettable cast including Divine Debbie Harry Sonny Bono and Jerry Stiller.
Set in 1962 Baltimore the film followed Tracy Turnblad a teenage girl with big dreams of dancing on the local Corny Collins Show. As she rises to popularity she becomes an advocate for racial integration challenging the outdated norms of the time. The movie blended campy comedy music and social awareness making it a beloved classic.
Though not a major box office hit upon release Hairspray gained a cult following and later inspired a Broadway musical adaptation in 2002 which became a huge success. That musical was later turned into the 2007 film remake starring John Travolta Michelle Pfeiffer and Zac Efron ensuring the story remained relevant for new generations.
Fun fact: Hairspray was the final film appearance of Divine who passed away shortly after its release. His performance as Tracy’s mother Edna Turnblad became one of his most iconic roles.
Trivia question: Hairspray was one of John Waters’ more mainstream films but he was originally known for his underground cult classics. Can you name another film directed by John Waters?
Set in 1962 Baltimore the film followed Tracy Turnblad a teenage girl with big dreams of dancing on the local Corny Collins Show. As she rises to popularity she becomes an advocate for racial integration challenging the outdated norms of the time. The movie blended campy comedy music and social awareness making it a beloved classic.
Though not a major box office hit upon release Hairspray gained a cult following and later inspired a Broadway musical adaptation in 2002 which became a huge success. That musical was later turned into the 2007 film remake starring John Travolta Michelle Pfeiffer and Zac Efron ensuring the story remained relevant for new generations.
Fun fact: Hairspray was the final film appearance of Divine who passed away shortly after its release. His performance as Tracy’s mother Edna Turnblad became one of his most iconic roles.
Trivia question: Hairspray was one of John Waters’ more mainstream films but he was originally known for his underground cult classics. Can you name another film directed by John Waters?
