The Nicest Kids in Town… and a whole lotta Aqua Net!

Okay, okay, settle down, people. Let's talk Hairspray (1988). Now, I know what some of you are gonna say: "Divine?! Seriously?!" And to that I say: "HELLO!" This film is a riot. Look, I wasn’t expecting high art, I was expecting camp, and honey, they DELIVERED. I mean, Divine as Edna Turnblad? Legendary. The part where she's trying to shield Tracy from the sun with that little parasol at the parade? "It's MY Little Angel!!" Pure. Gold. Seriously, though, beyond the wigs and the… everything that is Divine, the movie actually has a good heart. It’s about acceptance and fighting for what’s right, even when it’s hard. Remember when Ricki Lake's Tracy calls out Velma Von Tussle on live TV about integration? GO TRACY. It's a little preachy, sure, but it's got spirit. And let's not forget the music! "Nicest Kids in Town" is permanently stuck in my head, and I'm not even mad about it. I will say, though, some of the dance moves are… questionable. I mean, Link Larkin was supposed to be dreamy but looked like he was having a minor seizure half the time. And Debbie Harry as Velma? I love Deb, but she’s kinda…phoning it in a bit, right? But honestly, does it even matter? This movie is pure joy. It's so unapologetically OTT that you can't help but smile. All in all, if you're looking for something lighthearted, fun, and with a message that's still relevant today, give Hairspray a watch. You might be surprised how much you enjoy it! Just be prepared for the urge to tease your hair up to the sky and blast some Motown. I know I am. "Good morning, Baltimore!"