Hairspray

“Not only Waters's best movie, but a crossover gesture that expands his appeal without compromising his vision one iota; Ricki Lake as the hefty young heroine is especially delightful.” – Jonathan Rosenbaum, Chicago Reader

John Waters turned to the dance show craze of the 60s for Hairspray, the transgressive director’s only film to ever receive a PG rating. Hefty teen Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake in her acting debut) auditions for The Corny Collins Show, a popular Baltimore teen dance show, and improbably wins a spot when she upstages her bitter rival Amber von Tussle (Colleen Fitzpatrick). Armed with her skyrocketing popularity, Tracy sets her sights on racial integration in Baltimore as even the dance show relegates African-Americans to one weekly spot on air. Waters brings to life a story of racial tension and the shallow beliefs of public appearance through his own unique style. The film also stars frequent collaborator Divine, in his final role, as Tracy’s mother, Jerry Stiller, Debbie Harry, and Sonny Bono.

After Hours is the best films you never saw on the big screen (or maybe you did) from late-night cult classics to foreign favorites and even summer blockbusters on weekends. Please note that unclaimed pre-ordered tickets will be sold to the rush line 30 mins after showtime.

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