John Waters’s beloved comedy, set in early ‘60s Baltimore, features the legendary Divine in her last role. When teenager Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake) auditions for a spot on a popular teen dance show, she beats out the spiteful Amber von Tussle (Colleen Fitzpatrick), winning over Amber’s boyfriend (Michael St. Gerard) in the process. After meeting some Black students at her school, Tracy begins to push for more racial integration on the dance show. This gets her into trouble on many sides, especially with Amber’s pushy parents (Sonny Bono, Deborah Harry).

This screening will be introduced by writer, broadcaster, and podcaster Louise McSharry.

Notes by David O‘Mahony