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Hairspray

Play trailer Poster for Hairspray PG Released Jul 20, 2007 1h 55m Musical Comedy Play Trailer Watchlist
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92% Tomatometer 216 Reviews 84% Popcornmeter 250,000+ Ratings
In 1960s Baltimore, dance-loving teen Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky) auditions for a spot on "The Corny Collins Show" and wins. She becomes an overnight celebrity, a trendsetter in dance, fun and fashion. Perhaps her new status as a teen sensation is enough to topple Corny's reigning dance queen and bring racial integration to the show.
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Hairspray

Hairspray

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Critics Consensus

Hairspray is an energetic, wholly entertaining musical romp; a fun Summer movie with plenty of heart. Its contagious songs will make you want to get up and start dancing.

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Critics Reviews

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Deborah Ross The Spectator This film leaps at you with such joy and vigour and generosity you cannot reject it. Aug 23, 2018 Full Review Bob Mondello NPR For a star-studded big-budget musical, Hairspray does a nice job of retaining the funky sweetness of the original. Oct 18, 2008 Full Review Nick Schager Lessons of Darkness Though colorful, cheery and energetic, there's something missing from this song-and-dance routine. Rated: B- Nov 30, 2007 Full Review Richard Propes TheIndependentCritic.com Marc Shaiman and Chris Wittman's score sparkles and the film's production design and appearance remain faithful to Waters' vision of 1960's Baltimore. Rated: 3.5/4.0 Sep 10, 2020 Full Review Micheal Compton Bowling Green Daily News The latest version is just as good, if not better, with an infectious soundtrack and an all-star cast that precisely hits every note. This is easily the most entertaining major studio release of 2007. Nov 21, 2019 Full Review Rachel Wagner Rachel's Reviews (YouTube) Nikki Blonsky is a complete delight. Rated: A Jun 18, 2019 Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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Audience Member A rather interesting and invigorated ride of invigorated characters and music. The setting of the narrative is in the early 1960’s which goes extremely well with the music that is being presented. In addition, the acting is extremely well done especially capturing the early 60’s which for many was one of the best time periods. The music is something that kept me drawn to the film which was also the tool that allows the plot to progress. It captures the characters extremely well especially with how they express their emotions which was very good characterization. Something to also note was the color variety present within the film especially for the Corny Collins Show with the two different contrasts through the television and then witnessing the actual set later within the narrative. Even though it was an interesting movie to watch I was not all for it as it's not my favorite film simply because I am not a fan of musicals. However, this is one of those films that has a recognizable cast and would be recommended to friends to watch. Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 02/18/25 Full Review Audience Member Hairspray is a colorful, high-energy musical with good intentions, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. It’s undeniably a musical through and through, packed with upbeat numbers from start to finish. While the vibrant soundtrack and lively performances keep things moving, the storyline left me feeling underwhelmed. The plot is predictable, with little character development, and even when some characters do evolve, (such as the mom who gains the confidence to ignore her insecurities) their limited screen time makes it feel rushed or unrealistic. A lot of events unfold conveniently or out of nowhere like (spoiler) the winner of the contest, who wasn’t even supposed to be a contender after being kicked off the show. Moments like these pulled me out of the experience and made the story feel more like a fairy tale than something grounded in reality. That said, the movie’s message of inclusivity and equality is a positive one, celebrating people of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. While I appreciate the intent, the way it’s presented felt a bit too simplistic for my taste. I wouldn’t say Hairspray is a bad movie it’s just not my style. If you love feel-good musicals with happy endings and don’t mind some unrealistic but heartwarming moments, you might enjoy it. But if you prefer a more nuanced story with deeper character development, this might not be the film for you. Rated 3 out of 5 stars 02/17/25 Full Review Michael V When you follow your own beat, the world will follow you. Hairspray is a 2007 musical romantic comedy film based on the 2002 Broadway musical of the same name. The film was directed and choreographed by Adam Shankman 🎀 Not bad, but not my favourite either 😉 It’s ok, but I feel mixed about this one 😉 I’d recommend it if you like this genre, but if not then probably give it a miss 👍🏼👎🏼 Pleasantly plump teenager Tracy Turnblad auditions to be on Baltimore's most popular dance show - The Corny Collins Show - and lands a prime spot. Through her newfound fame, she becomes determined to help her friends and end the racial segregation that has been a staple of the show. Rated 3 out of 5 stars 02/13/25 Full Review Luis Otavio F Beautiful, energetic and powerful, Hairspray is a show of stars and performances. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 02/02/25 Full Review Shioka O Just so fun. non -stop musical. At first I didn't recognised Travolta lol. Great supporting cast. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars 01/26/25 Full Review Zamya F Best musical ever! The music is amazing and the costumes are good. Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/26/25 Full Review Read all reviews
Hairspray

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Movie Info

Synopsis In 1960s Baltimore, dance-loving teen Tracy Turnblad (Nikki Blonsky) auditions for a spot on "The Corny Collins Show" and wins. She becomes an overnight celebrity, a trendsetter in dance, fun and fashion. Perhaps her new status as a teen sensation is enough to topple Corny's reigning dance queen and bring racial integration to the show.
Director
Adam Shankman
Producer
Craig Zadan, Neil Meron
Screenwriter
Leslie Dixon
Distributor
New Line Cinema
Production Co
New Line Cinema, Zadan/Meron Productions, Ingenious Film Partners
Rating
PG (Momentary Teen Smoking|Language|Some Suggestive Content)
Genre
Musical, Comedy
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Jul 20, 2007, Wide
Release Date (Streaming)
Feb 1, 2010
Box Office (Gross USA)
$118.8M
Runtime
1h 55m
Sound Mix
Dolby SRD, DTS, SDDS
Aspect Ratio
Scope (2.35:1)
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