Hairspray

Tracy Turnblad is a spirited, big hearted teen who adores dancing and dreams of becoming a regular on the Corny Collins Show, a popular Baltimore morning program in the early 1960s. When she lands a spot on the TV set, her infectious optimism makes her an instant local hero. With the crowd behind her, Tracy uses her new influence to advocate for changes she believes in, especially the integration of the show and its audience. Her bold stance puts her at odds with Amber Von Tussle, the former star, and Amber's domineering parents who run the show. The rivalry heats up as the Miss Auto Show contest draws near.

Released in 1988, Hairspray was directed by John Waters and based on Waters' own screenplay, marking a bold transition into glossy musical comedy for a filmmaker known for subversive dramas. The cast includes Ricki Lake as Tracy Turnblad, Divine as Edna Turnblad, Debbie Harry as Velma Von Tussle, Vitamin C as Amber Von Tussle and Sonny Bono as Franklin Von Tussle, with a lively ensemble of dancers. The film leans into bright costumes, oversized humor and a swaggering soundtrack that nods to the early 60s. Waters uses humor to critique segregation while keeping the mood buoyant and theatrical.

Worldwide the film grossed 6,671,108 dollars against a 2 million dollar budget, a modest opening that gained momentum through home video releases and TV airings and fan affection. The movie ultimately solidified its status as a cult favorite, influencing later stage adaptations and inspiring audiences with its cheeky approach to social issues.

Divine's fearless Edna Turnblad becomes a defining image of camp warmth, anchoring a musical that fuses brash humor with genuine heart. The movie's color palette, confident choreography and playful satire fed a pop culture conversation that echoed in later productions and fan tributes.

Critics at release were divided yet the energy of the performances and Waters's willingness to mix satire with civil rights commentary won many supporters. The film foregrounds body positivity and inclusion, showing a community fighting for change through song and dance, while keeping a buoyant, show business sensibility.