Confession: I have never danced the Watusi. But watching Wednesday Adams giving
Lurch a lesson gives me hope. (For a big guy, he has some serious moves!)
Lurch a lesson gives me hope. (For a big guy, he has some serious moves!)
 How do you begin to compare the 1988 Rikki Lake version of "Hairspray" to the 2007 version with Nikki Blonsky? Aside from having essentially the same plot they are as different as...well, John Travolta and Divine.
Admit it...John Travolta in a fat suit and a dress was just a little creepy. And that regional accent! What was that? Texas? Oklahoma? (Hairspray takes place in Baltimore.) The 2007 version is a nice showcase for Christopher Walken, who is actually a talented dancer. But sheesh...the number he performs with Travolta was 2 clicks East of weirdville. And anytime a director out-weirds John Waters you are talking weeeeeeeeeeird. The best scenes of both films are, of course, the dance scenes. Personally, I think I would have had more fun at Motormouth Mabelle's record shop, but watching the kids dancing a "Madison" is like stumbling across something amazing in a museum basement. Keep your eyes peeled for cameos by Rick Ocasek (from the Cars) and Pia Zadora (from...Mars?) Advantage: 1988 version) I'm just glad that Disney didn't get their hands on the rights to this story and try to animate it. But I do have to say that both flicks get 2 thumbs up for great dance numbers, crazy characters, and evocative music. |
Boomer DJBoomer DJ is a late 60-something retired from the healthcare world...and not a minute too soon. Archives
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