The Hairdresser

The Hairdresser is a 2010 film by German filmmaker Doris Dörrie that offers a fresh and modern perspective on the body positivity campaign and societal prejudice towards overweight people. The film primarily stars Gabriela Maria Schmeide, followed by a strong supporting cast that includes Natascha Lawiszus, Ill-Young Kim, Rolf Zacher, and Maren Kroymann.

The movie follows the life of Kathi, a talented hairdresser beautifully depicted by Gabriela Maria Schmeide, who, despite dealing with constant weight-related discrimination and body shaming issues, lives her life with great enthusiasm and hopes for a better future. She is passionate about her job and is determined to overcome the challenges and gain acceptance in a career dominated by societal standards of beauty. Aspiring for an independent life, she dreams of opening her own hair salon in Prenzlauer Berg, a vibrant and trendy neighborhood in Berlin.

Her dreams seem within reach when she finds a promising salon for rent, until prejudice hampers her expectations. The landlord turns her down because of her physical appearance, showcasing the discrimination Kathi faces due to her body size. Undeterred, Kathi vows to fight off the societal prejudice and prove that one's weight should not undermine their talents and aspirations.

Kathi's fight for acceptance features a plethora of emotions that range from high spirits to feeling disheartened, captured brilliantly through the heart-touching performance of Schmeide. Her lively persona garners a lot of attention, inspiration, and empathy from the audience, courtesy of her genuine humor and undying optimism.

Kathi's life takes a dramatic turn when she crosses paths with Tien, a janitor played by Ill-Young Kim, who assists in her efforts. His constant support acts as a driving force, strengthening Kathi’s determination and resolve. Simultaneously, a subplot emerges where Kathi befriends a single mother living in the same building as her. Natascha Lawiszus plays this part with sensitivity, adding an additional depth to the movie.

Interacting through these diverse and layered characters, the movie artistically manages to intertwine different facets of society, such as the hypocritical beauty standards, body shaming, discrimination, and struggles of single parenting, with a light-hearted comical yet insightful touch.

The Hairdresser delivers hefty doses of laughter, tears, and an array of other emotions courtesy of the incredible performances led by Schmeide. The film is a delightful visual treat with its bright and vibrant set designs reflecting the lively neighborhood of Prenzlauer Berg. The styling and colorization are worthy of mention, as they beautifully capture the spirit and mood of the film.

Last but not least, the Hairdresser makes for a compelling social drama that probes deep into the societal pressures and prejudices faced by people on the heavier side. It offers an alternate narrative- the one which says that body weight does not affect the inner strength, abilities, and determination of an individual.

Underneath the poignant humor and energetic persona of Kathi, The Hairdresser subtly unfolds an important narrative on body positivity which is highly relatable in today's world. Insightful, hilarious, and moving in its own peculiar way, the film oozes charm and captivates its audience, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that strikes a balance between drama, comedy, and societal commentary. So, prepare yourself for an exciting journey with Kathi as she dares to challenge societal norms and pave her own road to success!