Hairspray, the 2007 musical film adaptation, isn't just a feel-good movie; it's a vibrant commentary on body image, racial segregation, and the power of standing up for what's right. While undeniably entertaining, it also offers valuable discussion points for parents and children alike, making it a worthy subject for a Common Sense Media review. This post delves into the film's themes, highlighting its positive messages and addressing potential concerns.
Positive Messages: Celebrating Diversity and Defying Conformity
Hairspray shines a spotlight on several important themes that resonate even today:
Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance:
The film's protagonist, Tracy Turnblad, is a plus-size teenager who dreams of dancing on her favorite TV show. Her journey challenges conventional beauty standards and celebrates self-acceptance, a powerful message for young viewers grappling with body image issues. Tracy’s unwavering confidence in herself, despite societal pressures, is inspiring and empowering.
Fighting for Social Justice:
Hairspray courageously tackles the issue of racial segregation in 1960s Baltimore. Tracy's activism, alongside her friends, particularly Seaweed Stubbs, powerfully depicts the fight for integration and equality. The film doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of prejudice but showcases the transformative power of unity and perseverance. This provides a valuable opportunity to discuss important historical events and social justice movements with children.
The Importance of Friendship and Family:
The strong bonds of friendship and family are central to the narrative. Tracy’s relationships with her mother, Edna, her best friend, Penny, and her newfound friends in the integrated dance troupe illustrate the importance of support systems and the power of community. These positive relationships offer valuable lessons about loyalty, empathy, and mutual respect.
Potential Concerns and Parental Guidance:
While Hairspray is largely positive, parents should be aware of a few elements that might require discussion:
Mild Suggestive Content:
Some scenes contain mild suggestive humor and innuendo, mostly related to romantic relationships. These instances are generally lighthearted and not overly explicit, but parents may wish to preview these scenes with younger children.
Racial Stereotypes:
While the film actively combats racial segregation, some might argue that certain characters perpetuate outdated racial stereotypes. A discussion about the historical context and the film's overall message of overcoming prejudice can help mitigate this concern. It is crucial to engage children in thoughtful conversations about how representation has evolved over time.
Consumerism:
The film is set in a time of burgeoning consumer culture. Parents might use this as an opportunity to discuss the influence of media and marketing on consumer behavior and values.
Using Hairspray for Meaningful Family Discussions:
Hairspray provides a fantastic springboard for engaging discussions on a variety of topics:
- Body image: Encourage conversations about the unrealistic beauty standards often portrayed in media.
- Social justice: Explore the history of the Civil Rights Movement and the ongoing struggle for equality.
- Friendship and family: Discuss the importance of supportive relationships and the value of community.
- Media literacy: Analyze how media can shape perceptions and attitudes.
Conclusion: A Valuable and Entertaining Watch
Hairspray (2007) is more than just a musical; it's a powerful and entertaining film that tackles important social issues with humor and heart. While some parental guidance may be needed for younger viewers, the film's positive messages about body positivity, social justice, and the power of friendship outweigh the minor concerns. It's a valuable addition to family movie nights and a rich resource for meaningful conversations. By using the Common Sense Media framework and engaging in thoughtful discussions, parents can ensure that Hairspray becomes a catalyst for learning and growth for their children.
