Hairspray

John Travolta works a fat suit like nobody’s business in Hairspray, the movie based on the Broadway musical that was based on a movie (John Waters’ 1988 film). With catchy, if not-altogether-memorable music, and a dynamic performance from newcomer Nikki Blonsky, the film is about as fun as things can get at the cinema. Blonsky plays Tracy Turnblad, a hefty high school girl who dreams of dancing on a Baltimore TV show. Her mother, Edna (Travolta, kicking ass), tries to stop her, but eventually supports her and leaves the house for the first time in years. Supporting performances are outstanding across the board, including Christopher Walken as Tracy’s supportive dad and Queen Latifah as a castmember of the TV show. On top of being a fun musical, the film has a decent message about integration. I hope Travolta gets a nomination for Best Supporting Actress!