Sentimental Garbage Podcast Summary: Episode on Hairspray (2007) with Ryan Farrell
Release Date: December 5, 2024
Host: Caroline O'Donoghue
Guest: Ryan Farrell
Introduction
In this heartfelt episode of Sentimental Garbage, host Caroline O'Donoghue welcomes Ryan Farrell to discuss the iconic 2007 musical film, Hairspray. The conversation delves deep into the film's cultural impact, its relevance in today’s societal context, and the personal connections both hosts share with the movie.
Hosts' Connection to Hairspray
Caroline and Ryan begin by reflecting on their longstanding friendship, which was cemented in 2008 while working at HMV. Their shared love for Hairspray became a cornerstone of their relationship, marking one of their first hangouts when they watched the film together. Ryan humorously notes, “I just can't help myself from participating in the valiant art of podcasting... because first of all, I love doing it” (00:32), emphasizing his passion for discussing the film despite initial intentions to take a hiatus.
Themes and Relevance of Hairspray
The duo explores the film’s central themes, highlighting its exploration of overcoming adversity and societal integration. Caroline remarks, “Tracy Turnblad’s journey is all about staying true to herself” (25:18), underscoring the film’s message of self-acceptance and advocacy.
Ryan draws parallels with contemporary musicals like Wicked, noting, “It feels like a really relevant musical to be covering around Wicked's release” (05:05), pointing out the shared themes of unity and challenging societal norms.
Character Analysis
Tracy Turnblad
Tracy, portrayed as a plucky teenager in 1960s Baltimore, is the heart of Hairspray. Ryan describes her as “naive, but so hopeful” (19:01), highlighting her role as a unifying force in the narrative. Caroline adds, “Tracy’s main ambition is becoming a dancer on TV, but her priorities shift to uplifting those around her” (23:04), illustrating her character development from personal success to collective empowerment.
Edna Turnblad
Edna, famously played by John Travolta, is celebrated for her heartfelt portrayal. Caroline praises Travolta’s performance, stating, “He really brought Edna to life with such love and sincerity” (15:02). Ryan echoes this sentiment, mentioning, “Every part of [Travolta’s] performance shows he's so happy for this woman” (52:05), emphasizing the character’s transformation and the actor’s ability to convey deep emotion.
Velma Von Tussle
Velma, portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer, serves as the film’s antagonist. Ryan critiques, “She’s threatened by Tracy’s success,” (54:35) discussing her role in perpetuating the film’s conflict. Caroline notes, “Despite being a strong villain, Velma’s character feels somewhat subdued compared to the stellar cast” (47:18), pointing out nuances in her portrayal.
Musical Elements and Songs
The episode delves into the film’s vibrant soundtrack, with particular praise for standout numbers like “I Know Where I’ve Been” sung by Queen Latifah. Ryan describes the song as “a beautiful, heavy song” (59:24), highlighting its emotional depth and significance in the narrative.
Caroline discusses how the musical numbers enhance the storytelling, stating, “Each song drives the plot forward while deepening our understanding of the characters” (59:53). They also compare Hairspray’s choreography to other dance-centric films, noting its unique take on 1960s dance culture.
Personal Reflections and Queer Readings
Both hosts share personal connections to Hairspray, particularly from a queer perspective. Caroline, identifying as queer, expresses how the film served as a source of joy and solace during challenging times. She reflects, “It was a real source of joy for me and a time where I was dealing with so much personal pain” (24:40), emphasizing the film’s comforting and uplifting impact.
Ryan adds, “Tracy’s naivety and sunniness are infectious,” (62:01) appreciating the character’s unwavering optimism and its resonance with personal experiences of hope and advocacy.
Comparisons to Other Musicals
The conversation bridges Hairspray with other musicals like Wicked, Chicago, and even non-musical films like Pride. Ryan draws thematic connections, stating, “Hairspray is essentially about two teenage girls who are both incredibly ambitious” (26:17), likening it to other narratives of collaboration and unity despite differing backgrounds.
Caroline contrasts Hairspray with contemporary musicals, noting the evolution of the genre and its increased respect following successes like Les Misérables and The Greatest Showman. “Now you've got...a newfound respect for musicals that I think was absent in 2007,” she observes (80:34).
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with both hosts expressing their deep affection for Hairspray. Caroline concludes, “The gift that musicals give is that no matter what situation you're in, it lifts you out of it and brings you somewhere beautiful” (78:47). Ryan echoes this sentiment, affirming, “Nothing does it better than Hairspray” (78:41).
Together, Caroline and Ryan celebrate Hairspray not just as a film, but as a cultural touchstone that embodies hope, unity, and the enduring power of music and dance to transcend societal barriers.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Ryan Farrell [00:32]: “...I have things to promote, shill and sell...”
- Ryan Farrell [02:53]: “...we don't know the most, we feel the most.”
- Caroline [05:24]: “...overcoming adversity and triumphing above all.”
- Ryan Farrell [07:37]: “Hairspray operates from this place of irony...”
- Caroline [15:02]: “...John Travolta's role in Hairspray is the performance of his career.”
- Ryan Farrell [25:27]: “Her own, like, values and things.”
- Caroline [52:07]: “It's the only time that I ever truly believe in the term retail therapy.”
- Ryan Farrell [62:01]: “If you were in a room with that character, you would sort of believe anything is possible.”
- Caroline [78:47]: “My favorite type of musical is one where ordinary people do extraordinary things.”
- Ryan Farrell [81:26]: “...like, Hairspray... anything is possible, that anything could come together.”
Note: This summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, focusing on the in-depth discussion of Hairspray, its themes, characters, and the personal reflections of the hosts. Advertisements and non-content sections have been omitted as per the request.