Hairspray Live! (DVD)

I settled in yesterday for another disappointment in watching NBC"s "Hairspray Live" but unlike the other network flops (Grease and Rocky Horror) this one did John Waters proud and I was so tickled to see that this live remake was just as good, if not better, than other Broadway incarnations (like John Travolta as Edna Turnblatt) . The casting was great with lead Tracey played by ingénue Maddie Baillio, who was fresh, engaging and on key. Harvey Fierstein reprised his Broadway role as Mother Edna Turnblatt with aplomb ( The only Broadway performer who "gargled" a singing role) AND they gave him shoes that were not the "clunker" boots he had on Broadway , along with a production finish wardrobe that was far and above what he had on stage. All the costuming as a whole was inspired. Should get a Emmy nomination. Jennifer Hudson's hair is actually slated to appear in a new film " The Wig that Ate The world." The casting was also very well handled. Hudson as Motormouth Mabel and Araina Grande put two vocal divas in a new original final post production " cast curtain call" duet that was stunning. Of course, Kristin Chenoweth is the queen of the Broadway stage and was perfectly cast as Velma Von Tussle. I did not recognize Sean Hayes as Mr Pinky . Rosie O'Donnell as the High School teacher was a perfect fit. Derek Hough rose above his dancing talents to become a full range actor in this production. The sets were so well done with lighting against grimy urban buildings inspired and the colors and props were all so well done as to add to the value. The camera work was really outstanding, especially given the challenges of a live production. This was a show that was well thought out, well rehearsed, and well done in every way. I'm actually glad my DVR's failed to originally record it, because now, with the DVD, I can revisit it- and believe me, I will. Kudos to NBC and all involved - ya did good !