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is Hairspray (2007 version), which is a fabulous movie for kids. The music's catchy, the message is positive, and there are enough kids in it to keep mine interested. I know it's an extremely sanitized version of black/white relations circa 1962, but for my 8 and 6 yr old girls it was a gentle way of talking about fairness, taking risks, and being proud of who you are. My youngest, on first viewing, said "Well that's nice of them, to make at least one day for Negro day" which opened the door to talking about separate but equal and the insidiousness of being patronized. We've talked about how parents can make mistakes sometimes and that being true to yourself is so important. Yes it's campy and over-the-top, but for kids who've shown zero interest in HSM or Camp Rock, I'm happy they've chosen "Hairspray" instead.
We also love the second "Sister Act" movie, about how kids with little interest in school became an amazing high school choir. Again, great music and great talent (a young Lauren Hill stars) make this a winner with the soundtrack requested over and over again for trips in the car. Being Catholic helps with this one as the girls don't get some of the nun jokes but they still really enjoy it, especially the ending.
My kids love musicals so for them there's no strangeness when characters spontaneously break into song. "Singin' in the Rain," "The Sound of Music," "Pirates Of Penzance," "My Fair Lady," and "Little Shop of Horrors" are regulars in our house - most of which have been recommended by other LWs. Thanks to everyone for the great ideas.
