The 2007 film
adaption of the original Hairspray features four new songs, written by the original composers from the original
Hairspray musical. Ever since the release of High School Musical by Disney Channel in 2006,
musicals quickly became a hot favourite. Being an
original Broadway musical, it was no surprise when Hairspray topped the charts quickly after it was released.
The story is a tearjerker, talking about the racial differences in those years. Music-wise, the tunes are catchy and the lyrics are simple enough to let everyone sing along. This Hairspray adaption is definitely a show for all.
The cast of Hairspray were also chosen carefully. Many of the big names like John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer and Queen Latifah have experiences in singing and acting in musicals. Wanting to attract younger crowds to the cinemas, teen stars like Zac Efron, Amanda Bynes and Britanny Snow were also added to the cast. The addition of newcomers like Nikki Blonsky, Elijah Kelley and Taylor Parks added the magic on screen.
One very memorable actor was John Travolta, who portrayed the role of Tracy’s mother, Edna Turnblad. Travolta was real in his acting, and every action or gesture did not remind audiences that he was a man. He was very convincing in the shoes of a woman.