When you hear “John Travolta dancing,” images of slicked-back hair and iconic moves from “Grease” or “Saturday Night Fever” might spring to mind. But prepare to have your expectations delightfully upended. In the movie adaptation of the Broadway hit “Hairspray,” Travolta delivers a dance performance unlike any other, and it’s a joyous, heartwarming spectacle that has resonated with audiences for years.
Forget the cool and suave Tony Manero; in “Hairspray,” John Travolta embodies Edna Turnblad, a plus-size Baltimore housewife with mile-high hair and an even bigger heart. From the moment Edna shimmies onto the screen, it’s clear this is Travolta as you’ve never seen him before. Donning a fatsuit and embracing full drag, Travolta doesn’t just play Edna; he becomes her, capturing the character’s vulnerability, humor, and ultimately, her exuberant spirit.
Edna Turnblad: More Than Just a Costume
Initially, the casting of John Travolta as Edna Turnblad raised eyebrows. Known for his masculine roles and leading man status, Travolta seemed an unconventional choice to play a middle-aged woman. However, this unexpected casting proved to be a stroke of genius. Travolta’s commitment to the role is undeniable. He disappears into Edna, bringing a depth and nuance that goes beyond the prosthetics and costumes.
What makes Travolta’s performance so captivating, especially in a “Movie With John Travolta Dancing,” is the emotional honesty he brings to Edna. We see her initial insecurities about her weight and her place in the world. Yet, as the story unfolds, we witness Edna’s transformation. Fueled by her daughter Tracy’s dreams and the changing times of the 1960s, Edna finds her own voice and, more importantly, her own confidence. And this newfound confidence is expressed through dance.
Dancing Through Self-Discovery and Social Change
“Hairspray” isn’t just about catchy tunes and vibrant costumes; it’s a story about breaking barriers and embracing who you are. Edna’s journey mirrors this theme perfectly. Her dancing isn’t about perfect choreography or technical prowess; it’s about liberation and self-expression. When Edna dances, she sheds her inhibitions and embraces joy.
The musical numbers in “Hairspray” are infectiously energetic, and Travolta, even in character as Edna, brings his signature charisma to the dance floor. Whether he’s learning the Madison in “The Nicest Kids in Town” or cutting loose in the finale “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” Travolta’s dancing is a highlight of the film. It’s a different kind of dancing than we’re used to seeing from him – less about smooth moves and more about uninhibited, joyful movement that reflects Edna’s inner transformation.
One of the most memorable dance pairings in the movie is between Edna and her husband, Wilbur, played by Christopher Walken. Their duet, “Timeless to Me,” is a heartwarming and hilarious ode to enduring love, showcasing a different, more tender side of Travolta’s dancing. It’s a charming reminder that dance can express a wide range of emotions, not just youthful exuberance.
Why “Hairspray” Remains a Feel-Good Dance Movie
“Hairspray” succeeds as a “movie with John Travolta dancing” because it blends captivating musical numbers with a story that resonates on multiple levels. It’s a celebration of individuality, acceptance, and the power of music and dance to bring people together. Travolta’s performance as Edna is central to this success. He takes a potentially caricature-like role and infuses it with humanity and warmth, making Edna a character you root for from beginning to end.
If you’re looking for a movie that will lift your spirits, make you laugh, and get your feet tapping, “Hairspray” is a perfect choice. And if you want to see John Travolta in a role that showcases his versatility and willingness to embrace the unexpected, then prepare to be amazed by his unforgettable performance as Edna Turnblad. “Hairspray” proves that dance comes in many forms, and sometimes, the most joyful moves come in high heels and a pink sequined dress, courtesy of John Travolta.
