#54: Hairspray, Maryland
The film adaptation of the musical Hairspray achieved phenomenal success, shattering records to claim the title for the highest opening weekend revenue for a musical film. It outperformed blockbusters like Mamma Mia! Its star-studded cast featured John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, and Amanda Bynes, contributing significantly to its widespread acclaim and commercial triumph.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Baltimore, Maryland, the world’s hairdo capital, Hairspray celebrates the city’s unique charm. Interestingly, the film’s production occurred mostly in Toronto, Canada, notwithstanding its Baltimore setting. Toronto’s advanced facilities, including sound stages and sets, made it a more suitable choice for the demands of filming a large-scale musical.