Watch Hairspray

Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky), a plucky teenager with big hair and an even bigger heart, dreams of dancing on "The Corny Collins Show," a popular TV program in 1960s Baltimore. When she finally gets her chance, Tracy becomes an instant sensation, using her newfound fame to fight for integration. Along the way, she falls in love with heartthrob Link Larkin (Zac Efron) while duking it out with a nasty network diva (Michelle Pfeiffer). The film is based on the Tony Award-winning musical of the same name and is directed by Adam Shankman.

One of the standout aspects of this film is undoubtedly the cast. John Travolta is nearly unrecognizable as Tracy's mother, Edna Turnblad, and his performance is a true testament to his versatility as an actor. Queen Latifah shines as Motormouth Maybelle, the host of "Negro Day" on "The Corny Collins Show." Her powerful voice and unwavering presence add a sense of gravitas to the film's themes of racial inequality and social justice.

Nikki Blonsky is a relative newcomer, but she holds her own against these heavyweight co-stars with her infectious energy and unwavering optimism. She is a delight to watch on screen, and her chemistry with Zac Efron is charming and believable.

The film's production design and costumes are also noteworthy. Director Adam Shankman and his team have recreated 1960s Baltimore with such attention to detail that it feels like a character in its own right. The sets are colorful and vibrant, and the costumes are delightfully over-the-top. The film's musical numbers, which range from Broadway-style showstoppers to Motown-inspired soul anthems, are choreographed with precision and dazzle with their energy and enthusiasm.

Perhaps the most significant aspect of "Hairspray," however, is its message of inclusivity and acceptance. The film tackles issues of racial segregation and body positivity with a lighthearted touch, but its message is no less vital or relevant today. Tracy and her friends fight against the status quo, arguing that everyone deserves to be seen and heard, regardless of their skin color or size. Their determination and spirit are infectious, and by the end of the film, it's hard not to be moved by their journey and their triumph over adversity.

In summary, "Hairspray" is a joyful and heartwarming musical with a powerful message at its core. It boasts a talented cast, stunning production design, and catchy, toe-tapping tunes that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's a film that celebrates diversity, acceptance, and the power of music and dance to bring people together, and it's a must-see for anyone who loves a good musical.

Hairspray is a 2007 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 81.