Hairspray

Amazon.com essential video

John Waters made his bid for PG respectability with this enjoyably trashy comedy about the racial integration of a teen dance show on Baltimore television in the early '60s. Waters, as always, makes a virtue of junk culture and the powerful emotional forces it can represent as kids vie to get on the show. Meanwhile, a parade of former stars (Pia Zadora, Debbie Harry, Sonny Bono) and pseudostars (Divine, Ricki Lake) cross the screen, playing freakish characters absorbed by thoughts of fame. (Waters himself turns up as a weirdo psychiatrist.) This transitional film for Waters is rough going at times and not as interesting or funny as his later features Cry-Baby and Serial Mom, but it's worth a look. --Tom Keogh

Customer Reviews:

A let-down..........2007-09-11

I will admit that we saw the new theater version before we saw this original, so that my have tainted our thoughts, but my family of five felt this was slow. It had some funny parts, but they were few and far between. It had a good message, but it was a bit jumbled and not very clear. I don't want to compare it to the new, musical version, but it's hard not too. I read all the reviews talking about all the dancing and the music. We didn't find the music memorable. There are some good dance scenes, but not enough to outweigh the rest of the film. It's well-done as far as the acting, but it's not very well written. I did appreciate the positive reviews that mentioned stories about the actual television show and growing up in Baltimore. That gave me a little more understanding about the background and I really appreciated that. I just have to say that I think the newest version is everything the original was, but a lot more. More dancing, more fun, more colorful. We were hoping and expecting to enjoy this original version a lot more than we did.

Amazon Worthy!.......2007-09-05

This is a classic to have ! Hairspray is a good movie and the cast do an outstanding job!

Hairspray.......2007-09-03

I got this movie for a handicap child. She loves the music and dancing in it. Now if only I could get it out of the DVD player to watch something else.

The more fabulous original version.......2007-08-29

John Waters' original film was the inspiration for the Broadway show and current more elaborate movie, and is a must-see for all Baltimoreans and any Hairspray fans. The plot here is far more complex and gives a more realistic portrayl of race relations and civil rights at the time. The only music featured is the actual hits of the day, and the dance moves are sensational!
This film launched the career of Ricky Lake, who debuted as Tracey here and who has a cameo as a talent scout in the new film.

Good Movie but Not Great.......2007-08-28

After seeing the 2007 adaptation of the musical, I wanted to see this version to compare it. I had seen it before but it had been a while. I don't think it'd be fair to compare it to the 2007 film considering if this film wasn't around, we wouldn't have the broadway version or the new version on screens now. That being said, I always see this film in the "musical" section at stores. It's not really a musical at all; it's like those movies with a good soundtrack that at times eclipses the actual film and acting; the music plays a large role in the film but the actors aren't performing the songs. This is more about dancing, segregation, race and for that, it's an entertaining film.

I think the weakest part of the film is the writing. So much is packed into the plot that it seems to skip around and you're not left with a really good or concrete understanding of why things are the way they are. You don't truly believe Tracy and Link are in love; they seem thrown together for effect without any explanation. Amber in the film automatically dislikes Tracy, again, with some reason but not to the level portrayed in the film. A lot of the dynamics and relationships are fully explored in the film; you don't get or see the mother/daughter bond between Tracy and Edna here and there are parts where it's just silence, where you're waiting for something to happen or it feels as if a joke's gone bad.

Now, for the good, the dancing is great. I found the best dance scenes to be toward the end with Amber doing 'The Roach' and Tracy's response, 'The Bug." It's a very light film, meant to be fun and not taken seriously. Divine is humorous, doesn't try to 'be a woman' as John Travolta tries to be in the latest adaptation. Once you realize Divine is in drag, the jokes over pretty much and Edna fades into the background. Jerry Stiller plays Tracy's dad, but again, he's funny and after a while even his character gets lost.

DVD wise, this version of the film is begging for another release. Perhaps a special edition with commentary, extended scenes, deleted scenes, SOMETHING because all you get here is the trailer. After seeing the 2007 version, this seems a bit lacking in many areas, flat and simply boring. Yet, I believe it's still watchable and entertaining in its own way when you seperate it from the different versions it spawned. Check it out at your own risk. It'll at least get you up and dancing.

John Waters Collection (A Dirty Shame NC-17 Version / Desperate Living / Female Trouble / Hairspray / Pecker / Pink Flamingos / Polyester)

Average customer rating:

john waters collection (dvd box set)
Close to perfect...
Good little collection......
john waters box set
Not bad, but not great.

John Waters Collection (A Dirty Shame NC-17 Version / Desperate Living / Female Trouble / Hairspray / Pecker / Pink Flamingos / Polyester)
John Waters Collection
Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000929UPA
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Description

All new John Waters Gift Set that includes: A Dirty Shame, Desperate Living, Female Trouble, Hairspray, Pecker, Pink Flamingos, Polyester and a bonus disc of extras!

Customer Reviews:

john waters collection (dvd box set).......2007-07-20

If you are a fan of John Water all these titles are already in your heavy play rotation at home. The nice addition isthe John Waters scrapbook. This was only available previously if one had purchased 3 various double feature dvd packs and sent in proof of purchase from each. Movies John shot as a child are featured along with many other historical features. I was a bid saddened that Cecil B. Demented or Serial Mom did not end up in this collection to really fill out the last few decades of John's work. I still wonder why Serial Mom was never given a quality DVD release. That being said, at least Desperate Living is included so as to freak the bejesus out of the folks who only will have seen Hairspray-The Musical prior to deciding to buy this box set.

Close to perfect..........2007-05-04

John Waters has been an inspiration, a guide in good (bad) taste and a personal hero since I was 13. 24 years later nothing has changed and this DVD box-set was a joy. It's like being shot in the head by your favourite member of the Manson Family or joining a sickening cult who relentlessly coerce you into getting a life.

I'm biased of course. I think John Water's movies should be obligatory by law. However I do have some questions...like where the hell is Multiple Maniacs and why has Serial Mom been omitted from the list?

What you DO get are classics like Pink Flamingos in which the protagonists struggle to prove themselves to be the filthiest people alive, while Desperate Living has the greatest Backwards Day scene ever filmed while hippies blasted on LSD shove babies into refrigerators. Also you get Female Trouble which is simply Divine's unquestionable masterpiece, while Pecker is just sublime and counts as the most loving tribute to a camera yet put on celluloid. All in all this cannot be missed but where the hell have Cry Baby and all the others got to?

The most series overlook is Multiple Maniacs and I'm still stuck without David Lochary as Mr David. I only have my VHS copy and the tape is wearing out. Please release it on a shiny plastic disk before I do something drastic and saw off my own face.

As Water's commented in Crackpot...much of what counted as showmanship in cinema is now dead. Thank god there is then a record of a man possessed of that vision who (unlike the infamous Jim Rose who once threatened to kill me when I compared his freak show with Water's visionary work) has an eye on the truly depraved. As always that's where the action is and there is no competing with it. A whole truckload of Quentin Tarantino's with their boring, tame, saleable zeitgeist crap have missed the bus. Perhaps you'll be on it with them heading to Retardsville instead of moving here?

I bought this with a Date With John Waters on CD. Great double pick. Still I'm missing the armpit licking and Divine's blasphemous unholy vision.

Water's really is The Pope Of Trash and this box-set will at least partially prove it. It makes me want to hit the banned-list and invite over a few nuns.

2000 out of 10.

Good little collection.............2007-02-26

I sometimes wonder if John Waters should've released two boxed sets. One containing the films prior to Hairspray and one after Hairspray, because it seems that the feel and focus of the films changed with that movie. Besides, that would make for a truly complete collection. However, I still enjoyed the box set. Some films I liked better than others obviously..... Personally, I enjoyed Water's newer films more than some of the old ones. Pink Flamingoes is still great, but some of the older flicks such as Female Trouble and Polyester seemed a bit boring to tell the truth. I highly enjoyed Pecker and A Dirty Shame. All in all, its a decent set. And the extra scrapbook disc adds some extras for die-hards to surf through.

john waters box set.......2007-01-12

this is a must have for any waters fan. the box set "very crudely yours" lives up to it's name.

Not bad, but not great........2006-11-03

The older films were a bit rough, as would be expected. Much of the acting is just awful, but that is the charm of the movies in some respects. I am glad that I got this set, but would hesitate to recommend it.

John Waters Collection #1: Hairspray/ Pecker (Special Edition)

Average customer rating:

FULL OF GRACE! FULL OF GRACE!
The Two "HAPPY" Movies Of The John Waters' Collection
John Waters - need I say more?
Least essential 'Special Edition' release....but fun!
Hairspray: The BEST Movie EVER NOW on DVD!

John Waters Collection #1: Hairspray/ Pecker (Special Edition)
Starring: Sonny Bono , Ruth Brown , Josh Charles , Divine , and Jason Downs
Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B00005B6OZ
Release Date: 2001-05-22

Amazon.com

John Waters made his bid for PG respectability with Hairspray, an enjoyably trashy comedy about the racial integration of a teen dance show on Baltimore television in the early '60s. Waters, as always, makes a virtue of junk culture and the powerful emotional forces it can represent as kids vie to get on the show. Meanwhile, a parade of former stars (Pia Zadora, Debbie Harry, Sonny Bono) and pseudostars (Divine, Ricki Lake) cross the screen, playing freakish characters absorbed by thoughts of fame.

Pecker (Edward Furlong) loves to use the camera to capture his fellow Baltimore residents living their daily lives. Of course, since Pecker is a Waters movie, those daily lives include visits to strip bars, shoplifting, and various other quirky, and frequently hilarious, human activities. When Pecker's makeshift photo exhibit comes to the attention of a New York art agent (Lili Taylor), Pecker becomes the latest sensation. Pecker has something to offend just about everyone. But those who take the offenses to heart would be missing out on what amounts to a sweet-natured farce.

Customer Reviews:

FULL OF GRACE! FULL OF GRACE!.......2003-01-13

I think these two movies are a must have for any Divine or John Waters fan.Even if they are pretty commercial and not as original as "Female Trouble" or "Mutiple Maniacs"(hopefully the latter of the two will be on DVD soon)they are wonderful example of wonderfully talented and sometimes shocking director.The cast in "Hairspray" are great including Debbie Harry,Sonny Bono,Ricki Lake and of corse,DIVINE!! "Pecker" has its moments and will grow on you as any true John Waters will.If you have never seen a Water's flick,this is a good place to start.

The Two "HAPPY" Movies Of The John Waters' Collection.......2002-03-07

"Hairspray" and "Pecker" are the tamest in the John Waters' collection. They are very enjoyable, even though they don't have the shock value that Waters earlier films had. I still absolutely adore both of these films and I'm thrilled that they are together on DVD. "Hairspray" is the last Waters' film that the late Divine appeared in. It showed the potential that Divine had in regards to his acting abilities. The movie is just flat-out fun, I would recommend it to anybody.

"Pecker" is one of John Waters recent films that I thoroughly enjoy. Its a ahppy little story that just floats along on screen, its really a pleasure to watch.

John Waters - need I say more?.......2002-01-19

All Waters fans - this is a no brainer. Two of the master's films for the price of one with a great commentary and an offer for a bonus disc (if you buy all three of the "collection"). I can't wait for Multiple Maniacs and Mondo Trasho! I would love to see some of his early stuff (Eat Your Makeup, Hag in a Black Leather Jacket) if it exists somewhere. Don't hesitate to buy this disc if your a fan.

Least essential 'Special Edition' release....but fun!.......2001-12-05

Of the three John Waters "Special Edition" releases, this is the only one that duplicates previous DVD releases...and thus it's the one collectors may opt to refuse. (...) The bonuses in this package aren't must-haves, though any film commentary with John Waters is a delight.

I guess some reviewers have a valid point about the mainstreaming of Waters' films...and these two films are case(s?) in point. But consider the limitations placed on the writer/director as his core cast was fragmented and the cost of filming movies soared skyward. In both "Hairspray" and "Pecker" I see minor concessions to the bland tastes of Popular culture, but nary a cop-out. (...) the subversive edge of Waters' often brilliant writing/direction is an ongoing exercise in (good) bad taste. If nothing else, his characters never do what you expect of them, quite a virtue in a film world besotted with "accessible" characterization.

Despite some brilliant moments, "Hairspray" is a bit cloying on the whole. This, in my opinion, is largely due to Ricki Lake in the lead role. Despite the usual outrageous Waters' dialogue, Lake delivers her lines with such sweetness and reverance that you just want to backhand her. To her credit, she furthers the old saw about fat girls being good dancers.

"Hairspray" is also a bit overlong with dance sequences, though they certainly lend a touch of authenticity to the production. The central story is roughly linear, though the bit with Tracy in reform school seems like a delaying tactic...especially since Waters' used a similar story device in "Cry Baby". On the plus side, the supporting cast is rich with freakish appeal. Divine's last role for Waters isn't flashy, but his Edna Turnblad is a credible, nuanced piece of work. Longtime cast member Mink Stole gets lots of screen time in a fairly minor role. Lots of silly and/or hysterical cameos: Pia Zadora, Ric Ocasek, Debbie Harry, Sonny Bono and a few more. The youth leads (mostly unknowns) are right on target...thoroughly believable in their parts.

Overall, "Hairspray" is probably the most accessible of Waters' latter-day films (...).

"Pecker" is a good choice to complement "Hairspray" in this edition. Both films have youthful leads, and both deal (directly or indirectly) with social issues such as race and class. The appeal of these films is also a bit gentler and good-humored than some of Waters' recent offerings. "Pecker" might take a while to sink in with old-time fans, as it did with me. I don't know if it's because there are other writers and directors actively pursuing the raunch genre that Waters' pioneered, or because "Pecker" has such simple charms.

I grudge the obligatory star power of Lili Taylor and Indie Waif Christina Ricci, low-wattage that it may be. Otherwise, the casting and performances in "Pecker" are on target. Mary Kay Place is fretful and yet blissfully sedate as the thrift store maven; a role that seems an appropriate homage to Waters' long time friend and star, Edith Massey. Martha Plimpton plays the ultimate fag hag ("My life is trade!") with dizzy abandon. Ed Furlong's Pecker (um, keep reading) is the most functional idiot savant imagineable...a tireless servant to the "art" all around, and completely oblivious to social norms and responsibilities.

Despite a feel-good ending that smooths over a fair number of conflicts, "Pecker" is a funny and satisfying film. The rabid idiosyncrasies of Waters' characters play off each other with the kind of manic glee you can find in "Pink Flamingos" or even "Polyester." The 'turnabout' plot actually works, if you take a good look at some of Pecks' pics from his NYC premiere. (...)

Fans who already own "Pecker" on DVD may opt to wait for a single disc release for "Hairspray." Considering how infrequently some of his films have been available on home video, I'm pretty sure longtime fans like myself will snap this collection up on sight. Recommended.

Hairspray: The BEST Movie EVER NOW on DVD!.......2001-06-14

I'm not going to bother to review the actual movies themselves, since there is no point in criticizing perfection! I'm thrilled to finally have "Hairspray" on DVD! What I will say is: I find it extremely puzzling that New Line decided to put "Hairspray" out with "Pecker." I totally understand that "Pecker" is probably the tamest (along with Hairspray- "Cry Baby" was released by Universal so New Line probably doesn't have the rights to release it) of the John Waters movies- but I would say that it's safe to say that all of the John Waters fans with DVD players bought "Pecker" the day it came out! (Well, I did!) The "Pecker" DVD IS NOT the same DVD that was out before. It has some new menu screens AND the cast/crew bios are now gone. Everything else is the same. The "Hairspray" DVD is great- the movie has never looked this good before! I've seen the movie hundreds of times, and I discovered things I had never seen before when I watched the pristine DVD. John and Ricki's commentary is interesting but it's glaringly obvious that the two of them did not record the commentary together. New Line has attempted to sort of "paste together" their commentaries to make you think they were there together- but you can tell they really weren't. Ricki's commentary is somewhat limited to her revealing that she was extremely upset about having to dye her hair and she says that she still wishes that she could have worn a wig. She also talks about how she got the part- but it's her comments on her hair that keep coming up! (I guess she really has a reason to complain! They really did a number on her hair!) It would have been nice if John and Ricki could have recorded their commentaries together- to react against what each was saying. Other than that- just about everything is perfection. The packaging for this DVD could have been a little nicer with more pictures (the velcro that keeps it all closed is sort of CHEAP!)- New Line could have come up with something a little more clever- but I'M NOT COMPLAINING! I'm just happy to have "Hairspray" on DVD!

HAIRSPRAY (2007) - Sneak Preview Promo DVD - Behind-the-Scenes - Circuit City

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HAIRSPRAY (2007) - Sneak Preview Promo DVD - Behind-the-Scenes - Circuit City
Starring: John Travolta , Michelle Pfeiffer , Christopher Walken , Zac Efron , and James Marsden
Director: Adam Shankman
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

MC-LAST MIMZY (DVD/WS/HAIRSPRAY MOVIE CASH)

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MC-LAST MIMZY (DVD/WS/HAIRSPRAY MOVIE CASH)

Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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ASIN: B000Q66HJ6

John Waters Collection (Hairspray / Pecker / Polyester / Desperate Living / Pink Flamingos / Female Trouble)

Average customer rating:

Hey C. Lander, go to hell
Ban John waters?
There are two types of people in the world
Trashy Genius
John Water's Films Helped Me Survive My Youth

John Waters Collection (Hairspray / Pecker / Polyester / Desperate Living / Pink Flamingos / Female Trouble)
Starring: John Waters
Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

( J ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Comedy | Boxed Sets | Stores | DVD | Video
ASIN: B00006JMRS
Release Date: 2003-05-13

Amazon.com

Director John Waters breaks new boundaries of bad taste with the six-film John Waters Collection. Waters actually made his bid for PG respectability with Hairspray, an enjoyably trashy comedy about the racial integration of a teen dance show on Baltimore television in the early '60s. Waters, as always, makes a virtue of junk culture and the powerful emotional forces it can represent as kids vie to get on the show. Meanwhile, a parade of former stars (Pia Zadora, Debbie Harry, Sonny Bono) and pseudostars (Divine, Ricki Lake) cross the screen, playing freakish characters absorbed by thoughts of fame.

In Waters's hilariously trashy tale of suburban misadventure Polyester, his favorite leading lady, transvestite Divine, plays Francine Fishpaw, a dissatisfied suburban housefrau who longs for a little romance in her life because her husband and children drive her crazy. Salvation arrives in the form of Tod Tomorrow (Tab Hunter), a drive-in owner who sweeps Francine off her feet (a mean task, given Divine's girth). But he's not all he's cracked up to be.

Everyone in Desperate Living's Mortville has some horrible secret to hide. The mentally unstable Peggy Gravel (Mink Stole, in a superb display of overacting) and her 300-pound-plus maid Grizelda must take it on the lam after Grizelda smothers Peggy's husband under her elephantine buttocks. They find themselves in Mortville, a shanty fiefdom ruled by the grotesque Queen Carlotta (the incomparable Edith Massey). The evil queen delights in tormenting her subjects, but Peggy and Grizelda soon team up with a pair of lesbian outcasts, and a rebellion is in the air. Notable for the absence of Waters regular Divine, this movie pushes the rest of the cast to their over-the-top best. Nasty, shabby, gross, and hilarious, this is John Waters at his best.

Pink Flamingos is the movie that made Waters famous, and quite possibly the film that made bad taste cool. The plot revolves around two vile families laying claim to the title "The Filthiest People Alive." You've got pregnant women in pits, you've got grown men getting sexual satisfaction from chickens, you've got people licking furniture to perform trailer-park voodoo, and you've got classic lines like: "Oh my God! The couch ... it ... it rejected you!" Waters made this celluloid sideshow with one aim--to make a name for himself. It worked.

In Female Trouble, cross-dressing cult icon Divine is at her most gleefully outrageous as teenage brat Dawn Davenport, who runs away from home and into a life of wanton hedonism all because she didn't get cha-cha heels for Christmas. Almost immediately she's molested by a sleazy motorcycle thug (also played by Divine), but she doesn't let motherhood interfere with her plans of stardom and turns herself into an unlikely fashion statement in an apocalyptic fashion show. Waters's fourth feature is just as cinematically primitive and even more gleefully vulgar, right down to the electric climax of Dawn's road to everlasting fame.

Description

7 DVD gift set contains 6 classic John Waters films plus a bonus DVD with extra features including interviews, deleted scenes and outakes.

Customer Reviews:

Hey C. Lander, go to hell.......2005-04-11

Hey C. Lander, f*** you. John Waters movies SUCK (except Hairspray and Pecker) and Steven Spielberg has a quadrillion times more talent than John Waters.

Ban John waters?.......2004-08-06

Lol One of the reviews blasting waters names Steven Spielberg as one of the greatest directors of all time. Spielbergs movies are all over budgeted crapfests for christian Familys who live in the suburbs. Waters is daring,original and has far more talent than that hack spielberg. Ban movies like Jurassic park instead.

There are two types of people in the world.......2004-06-22

People who like John Waters's movies, and @$$holes. (Note for the humour-impaired: go to dictionary.com and look up the word "joke" - you'll find life easier afterwards.)

This set is remarkable. Not only do we get John's five best movies and Pecker, complete with the maestro's side-splitting commentary tracks, but we get a bonus DVD with all kinds of treasures: clips from unfinished movies, interviews old & new, and assorted relevant weirdness.

If you get John Waters, you need this set. If you don't, well there's plenty of other junk out there.

Trashy Genius.......2004-03-14

John Waters has spent the past 40 years teaching us all the true meaning of filthiness. Finally, New Line Home Cinema has digitalized the biggest of his films. More important still, classics like Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble, and Desperate Living are all presented in their entirety (sorry Jack).

The DVDs are beautiful. The commentaries are hilarious. The frames have never been so offensive. As an added bonus, the new 32mm prints are circulating among local (local as in your nearest big city local) theatres for midnite runs. Who'd of guessed?

If you are a new fan, aka Hairspray on Broadway, then perhaps you'd be best renting them first... though you won't find them at Blockbuster. Otherwise, you know what you're in for... buy them already!

John Water's Films Helped Me Survive My Youth.......2004-02-19

As a young teen, I was raised in a terrible town that was obsessed with sports. No efforts were truly put into giving the children culture. If you were a young male, you either played sports or you were odd. I was odd. I was more interested in painting and music. I had to 'culture' myself. I would get on the bus and go to the city to see architecture, museums, plays, and concerts. Usually by myself. This is around the time I discovered the films of Divine. Here was an outrageous figure not afraid to be himself. Surrounded by an entire group of outcasts and misfits. I almost felt like part of the Dreamlanders (the name given to this group of people). I sought out anything by Divine or John Waters that I could get my hands on. That is how I discovered all of these films.
Watching these films helped me to realize there was an entire world outside of my dreary town and its dreary residents.
And the world was filled with all kinds of wonderful, artistic and bizaare people (who actually made me look dull and normal).
Say what you will about Divine and John Waters. But they really helped me survive my youth.
Now as for this box set. You cannot beat this deal. You get the best of John Waters all in one set. If you bought these films separately, you would pay a lot more than this price.

Average customer rating:

A let-down...
Amazon Worthy!
Hairspray
The more fabulous original version
Good Movie but Not Great

Hairspray [Region 2]

ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B000247638

Amazon.com essential video

Customer Reviews:

A let-down..........2007-09-11

Amazon Worthy!.......2007-09-05

This is a classic to have ! Hairspray is a good movie and the cast do an outstanding job!

Hairspray.......2007-09-03

I got this movie for a handicap child. She loves the music and dancing in it. Now if only I could get it out of the DVD player to watch something else.

The more fabulous original version.......2007-08-29

Good Movie but Not Great.......2007-08-28

Average customer rating:

Hollywood Hairspray
Starring: Various Artists
Manufacturer: Perris Records
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Rock | Styles | Music

General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

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ASIN: B000929A6Y
Release Date: 2005-04-26

Description

For those about to rock, Perris Records salutes you with their first ever, long awaited DVD release entitled "Hollywood Hairspray - The DVD" March 22nd, 2005 marks the release date for this incredible new DVD featuring 11 videos and interviews from Stephen Pearcy, Broken Teeth, Babylon A.D., Nasty Idols, Stampede Queen, CRASHDIET, Cherry St. and others. Also included is some bonus material including the never before seen video for "Pissed" by Dangerous Toys.

MC-LAST MIMZY (DVD/P&S/HAIRSPRAY MOVIE CASH)

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MC-LAST MIMZY (DVD/P&S/HAIRSPRAY MOVIE CASH)

Manufacturer: New Line Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video
ASIN: B000Q66HIW

Average customer rating:

A fun musical everyone will love
Good Hair
A wire-to-wire, upbeat, marathon that leaves you smiles from start to finish...
"You can't stop the beat."
Summer movie - had me a blast!!!

Hairspray

ProductGroup: Theatrical Release
Binding: Theatrical Release

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It's rare that a movie captures the intensity and excitement of a live Broadway musical production while appealing to a broader movie-going audience, but the 2007 Hairspray is an energetic, powerfully moving film that does just that. A re-make of the 1988 musical film Hairspray (B00006RZ9Y), the new Hairspray is a film adaptation of the 2002 Broadway musical and features more likeable characters than the original film and an incredible energy that stems from a great cast, fabulous new music, and the influence of musical producer Craig Zadan. What remains constant throughout all three versions of Hairspray is the story's thought-provoking exploration of prejudice and racism. Set in Baltimore in 1962, the film opens with chubby girl Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky) singing her heart out in a rendition of "Good Morning Baltimore" that, while admittedly a bit too long, sets the farcical tone for the film. Viewers quickly become immersed in Tracy's teenage world of popular television dance shows, big hair, the stigma of being different, and the first hesitant steps toward racial integration within a segregated world. The Corny Collins (James Marsdon) television dance show is a teenage obsession in Tracy's world and Link Larkin (Zac Efron) is every girl's dream partner, so when a call for auditions goes out, Tracy skips school to try out, but is rejected by station manager Velma von Tussle (Michelle Pfeiffer) because of her large size and the threat of competition for Velma's own daughter Amber (Brittany Snow). Perseverance and the support of her friend Penny (Amanda Bynes), father Wilbur (Christopher Walken), and negro dancer Seaweed (Elijah Kelley) lead Tracy to the spotlight and the chance of a lifetime, but more and more Tracy discovers that fairness and equality for those who are different does not come without a fight and that sacrifices must be made to effect change. While the message is serious, Hairspray is first and foremost a comedy with stellar performances by John Travolta as Edna Turnblad (who ever imagined Saturday Night Fever's (B000SQFC0Y) iconic star would appear onscreen as a woman?), Christopher Walken, and Michelle Pfeiffer. Part of what makes Hairspray so powerful is the exceptional music composed by Marc Shaiman, including songs newly composed for the movie like "Ladies' Choice," "The New Girl in Town," and "Come So Far," and the awesome vocal talents of Queen Latifah (Motormouth Maybelle) and a cast of heretofore musically-unknown actors like Nikki Blonsky, Zac Efron, and Brittany Snow who really can sing. Notable trivia includes Jerry Stiller's appearance in both versions of the film (as Wilbur in the 1988 film and as Mr. Pinky in this 2007 rendition), and a cameo appearance by 1988 director and screenplay writer John Waters. Hairspray is one of the best films of the year--it's powerfully moving entertainment that leaves you energized and motivated to fight for what you believe in. --Tami Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

A fun musical everyone will love.......2007-09-14

When I first heard that Hairspray was going to be made into a movie, I must admit that I was not sure if it would do very well. I am SO glad that I was wrong.

First off, the casting is amazing! Newcomer Nikki Blonsky (Tracy) completely steals the show with her amazing voice and dancing. She is going to go far! I love how she portrayed the character of Tracy in every aspect.

I was beyond shocked when I heard that Christopher Walken...the same actor that was in Sleepy Hollow, was in this. I had no idea that he was a triple threat! But he really does a great job as Tracy's father Wilber. He's so funny and sweet...a complete 180 from the characters he normally plays.

Michelle Pheiffer (Velma von Tussle) was wonderful as the 'villain.' She normally does not play the "mean" person in movies yet like Walken, she pulled it off really well. I knew that she would be able to sing and dance, having seen the movie Grease 2. Brittany Snow (Amber von Tussle) was wonderful as well; she fit the role to a "T"!

Current teen idol Zac Efron (Link Larken) surprised me here. I knew he could dance since I saw High School Musical, but I know he didn't sing (in the first movie anyway). Yet he sang here and in my opinion, did an outstanding job. I think his hair was a bit overdone though...he looked like he had just come out of Grease, haha. But overall, he was a good choice for the part.

Queen Latifah...well she's fabulous, as ususal. After seeing Chicago, I knew that she was the only person who could play Motormouth Maybelle as she did.

All right, I saved the best for last...John Travolta. Oh my goodness!!! He was absolutely AMAZING!!!! Nearly everyone knows that he can sing, dance and of course act, but who knew that he could pull off playing a 300 pound woman so darn well? I sure didn't expect him to. Again, I'm glad I was wrong. As Edna, he's (she's) so sweet and really makes you believe that he's a woman. Very well done.

I love the general theme of the movie as well. It was very well structured and portrays 1962 Baltimore quite well. I like how it touched on the subject of racism and segregation but at the same time the director and producers didn't over do it and make it the MAIN theme of the movie. The message of the movie was still there: that you can do anything if you try.

This is definitely a movie musical that I am going to purchase when it becomes available. Anyone who loves musicals will love this movie.

Good Hair.......2007-09-04

Having not watched either the 1988 original or the Broadway version of Hairspray, I am enthralled by the 2007 update. The casting was excellent.

Michelle Pfeiffer is the evil station manager Velma Von Tussle whose only intention is to keep her teenage daughter in the limelight as the ultimate Miss Teenage Hairspray. Her foxy sultriness and impeccable aura makes her role shine. John Travolta in his fat suit and much hyped about gender-bending role as Edna Turnblad is anything but hilarious. While he tries to mimic the voice of a middle-aged obese woman who is disconnected from society, it's really his (or her) antics that lights up the screen. Christopher Walken as Wilbur Turnblad is incredibly affectionate yet deadpan at times though he delivers that fatherly and husband instincts with great aplomb. Queen Latifah as the over-the-top Motormouth Maybelle fights to keep her black cast on the show with excellent rendition of songs especially the tearjerker I Know Where I've Been.

In the end, the two unbelievable stars of Hairspray must be newcomer Nikki Blonsky and High School Musical Zac Efron who play Tracy Wilbur and Link Larkin respectively. Blonsky plays the fervent show chaser who aspires to be part of the cast with great fervor and becomes an accidental anti-racism activist while Efron shakes off his childish shadow by playing a charming TV character. The unlikely romance between Tracy and Link unfolds with much realism onscreen as their chemistry is unmistakable.

In Hairspray, the acting is great and the music is good. The New Girl in Town", "Big, Blonde and Beautiful" (Reprise), and "Come So Far (Got So Far to Go)" are the three songs new to this version of Hairspray.

The musical is highly entertaining and celebratory despite some minor flaws. (A)

A wire-to-wire, upbeat, marathon that leaves you smiles from start to finish..........2007-09-02

Despite being relatively new to the musicals, I found the 1960's integration themed Hairspray to be quite enjoyable and entertaining. A wire-to-wire, upbeat, marathon that leaves you smiles from start to finish. Hairspray's sets, transition, and cinematography were all top notch.

The casting crew of Tina Gerussi, Richard Hicks, and David Rubin also did a magnificent job signing up John Travolta (as the recluse mother Edna Turnblad); Christopher Walken (as the naïve Wilbur Turnblad); Michelle Pfeiffer (as the ruthless and cunning Station Manager); James Marsden (as the colorful TV Host Corny Collins); Queen Latifah (as Motormouth Maybelle); and newcomer Nikki Blonsky (as the lead, Tracy Turnblad) in their respective roles.

If you were a big fan of the 2002 Hairspray Broadway Musical, you wouldn't want to miss its most recently cinematic interpretation to date!

"You can't stop the beat.".......2007-08-31

Most of us past a certain age remember the great musical comedies of yesteryear. They were tuneful and amusing, and moviegoers would leave the theater with smiles on their faces. For a brief moment, that era has returned with the opening of "Hairspray," directed by Adam Shankman. The story centers on pretty, plus-sized Tracy Turnblad, played with delightful élan by the effervescent Nikki Blonsky. Tracy, who lives in Baltimore in 1962, has an impossible dream. She wants to dance on the Corny Collins show, a schlock American Bandstand clone. Although Tracy has talent, she is not as photogenic as the plastic blondes and brunettes with hourglass figures who cavort across the stage on Corny's show. There is also a subplot dealing with the shunting aside of African-Americans in the media and in American society as a whole. When Tracy is repeatedly sent to detention, she befriends a lively group of African-American teenagers who teach her some new moves and open her eyes to a world she scarcely knew existed. Tracy eventually lends her support to a grass-roots movement to make the public aware that times are changing and integration is the wave of the future.

Shankman handles his lively and energetic cast perfectly and the actors work together seamlessly. John Travolta stands out in more ways than one. He portrays Tracy's very large mother, Edna Turnblad, a shy laundress who has not left her home in years. She is deeply ashamed of her appearance and she wants to keep Tracy from suffering as she has for so long. Travolta inhabits the role completely; he is convincing and poignant, and he sings and dances up a storm. Christopher Walken is Tracy's dad, Wilbur, an unassuming gag shop owner who wants his beloved only child to follow her dreams. Michelle Pfeiffer plays a stock villainess, Velma Von Tussle, with appropriate nastiness, and Queen Latifah, as always, is saucy and sassy as the outspoken Motormouth Maybelle. Allison Janney is a hoot in a cameo rule as Prudy Pingleton, a repressed religious fanatic who wants her daughter to stay away from hooligans (that includes almost everyone of her daughter's age).

The movie looks good, it is well-paced and nicely edited, and the musical numbers are tuneful, expertly choreographed, and beautifully executed. The underlying social message is delivered without subtlety, but it is effective nevertheless. "Hairspray" is about inclusion, the value of a loving and supportive family, and the importance of ethnic pride and self-acceptance. It is hilarious and good-hearted entertainment and easily one of the most enjoyable films of the year.

Summer movie - had me a blast!!!.......2007-08-24

Those who know me best will know that there's no way I could review a movie with John Travolta (Grease) and Michelle Pfeiffer (Grease 2), without borrowing the theme song.

Essentially a musical with a message, this version takes the original 1988 John Waters film and the Broadway musical, and combines them with a new style and a fresh application of Ultra Clutch hairspray to get out any kinks.

The time is 1962, and segregation still exists in Baltimore, especially at the local TV station managed by Velma von Tussle. Tracy Turnblad is a plus sized teenager of sunshiny disposition and big heart, and her dream is to appear on the popular teen show "The Corny Collins Show" and maybe one day to win the Miss Teenage Hairspray pageant.

(To the tune of "Grease")

She sees no difference between black & white
She's just a teenage girl
With a good appetite
There ain't no danger she can go too far
She just believes right now that she can become a star

Hairspray's the word

They think her dream is just a growing pain
They just don't understand
Though it's so very plain
Her hips are moving
Tracy's so surreal
She starts the fight right now
The segregation appeal

Hairspray's the word.
(is the word, is the word, that you heard)
It's got groove.
It's got meaning.
Hairspray's the time,
It's the cast,
It's the dancing
Hairspray's the way we are feeling.

She took the pressure and she threw away
Discrimination should belong to yesterday
She never knew that she could make it that far
By just believing that
People should be who they are

Hairspray's the word.
(is the word, is the word, is the word....)

Nikki Blonsky completely steals the show from her famous co-stars, and that's not for the want of them trying. Everybody was excellent in this movie, which effectively uses music and dance to send a message against racism and prejudice. An excellent choice, and one I'll definitely be buying on DVD. If you love musicals, you just HAVE to get this one.

Amanda Richards, August 23, 2007

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