Hair High

Hair High is an animated feature film that authentically epitomizes the essence of high school life in the 1950s, but with a whimsical, supernatural spin. Directed by the acclaimed animator Bill Plympton, Hair High was released in 2004 and features the voice talents of Eric Gilliland, Sarah Silverman, and Dermot Mulroney.

As the curtain rises, we plunge into the eccentric world located at Echo Lake high school. Here we meet our primary protagonists, Spud (Eric Gilliland), an awkward new student, and Cherri (Sarah Silverman), the arrogantly beautiful and popular cheerleader. The vast difference in their social standings could never indicate the romantic entanglement that the duo will soon find themselves entwined in, a development that not only molds their characters but also drives the narrative of Hair High.

Even as Spud tries to fit into this new environ, he unexpectedly becomes the object of Cherri's affection, complicating the high school social dynamic more than ever. Things take a dramatic twist as her jealous ex-boyfriend Rod (Dermot Mulroney) adds another set of wrinkles into the fabric of this quirky tale. The tension between the trio stirs up a captivating drama worth every minute of the screen time, each twist and turn further propelling the narrative into a realm where teen drama meets supernatural oddity.

One of the grand spectacles of Hair High is its 1950s setting, brought to life by Bill Plympton in all its nostalgic glory—from the bustling school hallways lined with high-schoolers donning sock hops and slicked back hairstyles to the grandeur of prom night. All these intricate set details are meticulously crafted and infused with an authenticity that beams nostalgic charisma. The stylized art and animation, along with the iconic fashion of the era, lend a signature touch to the film.

However, the brilliance of Hair High lies beyond its aesthetic qualities. The film represents Bill Plympton's uncanny knack for blending elements of romance, suspense, comedy, and horror into a seamless story arc. The seemingly conventional high school romance, rivalries, and rage are portrayed against a backdrop of sinister events, providing depth to the storyline and characters.

Moreover, the characters of Hair High are more than mere caricatures, resonating with the audience through shared sentiments and experiences. Plympton humanizes each principal character, making them both relatable and compelling. For instance, Spud is more than a gawky new kid. His loss, love, triumphs, and scars reinforce his stature as the film's heart. Similar intricacy is also woven into the character development of Cherri and Rod, making them more than stereotypical depictions of a high school drama.

For a film with such rich, multifaceted characters, the voice acting in Hair High brings an added degree of life and personality. Eric Gilliland, cherished for his quirky, passionate delivery, voices Spud with distinctive warmth and charm, bringing his outsider-turned-hero character to life. Sarah Silverman's Cherri combines sass and fragility, creating a character both diverse and riveting. Dermot Mulroney handsomely mirrors Rod's machismo with an equally dynamic vocal performance.

Hair High is not just a film but a distinctive spectacle blending elements of teen romance with supernatural drama. It provides viewers with a delightful journey down memory lane, craftily interwoven with twists amped up by supernatural elements. Although primarily targeted at an older audience who appreciates teenage nostalgia, it has an ample amount of humor, excitement, and drama for an extensive age group.

In conclusion, Hair High is a commendable piece of art, beautifully blending different elements to offer a unique cinematic experience. This film, with its nostalgic portrayal of high school life, quirky characters, and unexpected plot twists, brings together an enjoyable mix of comedy, drama, and horror. Whether an ardent fan of Bill Plympton or someone stepping into Plympton's fascinating world for the first time, Hair High promises a memorable cinematic experience.