Review of Hairspray (1988) by Nelson M — 06 Jul 2012
While this isn't the most daring film John Waters has made, it's certainly among the most fun of them. While the laughs in this film hit hard and the silliness is campy goodness, there's far more to this film that meets the eye.
This film is rarely seen as a commentary on race relations, McCarthyism, and maybe the Reagan era. Through the hilarity, similar to Pink Flamingos, Waters is forcing us to face facts and see the real problems in society.
Similar to more of his raunchy films, he has uncomfortable scenarios which are played for laughs and allow us to take in social issues much easier and leave us a little smarter as a result. Hairspray isn't the most challenging film, in the sense that the images aren't as bizarre or sleazy, but it's one of his best and one of the best out there.
This review of Hairspray (1988) was written by Nelson M on 06 Jul 2012.
Hairspray has generally received positive reviews.
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