Xanadu Revisited




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Xanadu Revisited
by William S. Repsher

published 2/1/99

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William Repsher is a LeisureSuit.net staff writer based in Queens.

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Subj: olivia
Olivia's 'british accent '??? LOL,you're a moron.
-- R
Jun 16, 2008 at 3:18AM
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Last week I took a nostalgia trip and rented Xanadu, one of the only films with an X in the title you can rent at Blockbuster. As a kid, I loved this album, and, I suppose, had good feelings toward the film. Watching it again, I was dumbstruck at just how transcendentally bad this movie is. I wanted to write about it, but was simply unable to conjure the words. I then asked our resident seventiesologist William S. Repsher to take a crack at it.

Why review a 19 year old movie? Two reasons: there are no new important films opening this week, and, most importantly, I partially run this God damned magazine, one of the few things in my life I do run, so I don't have to give you a fucking reason! -- Jordan Hoffman, Senior Editor

It can be argued that the 50's didn't truly end until JFK was assassinated in the fall of 1963. And if you want an excellent document of the 60's crashing down a few months after Woodstock, see Gimme Shelter and witness the Hells Angels beating ass all day on peaceful, stoned hippies with sawed-off pool cues, and eventually stabbing a young black man to death.

Released in 1980, Xanadu was Altamont for the 70's. It signaled the end in a fairly ugly, fast fashion. It took elements of the late 70's (disco, rollerskating, ELO, awful special effects, Olivia Newton-John pushing her luck after Grease) and presented them in a way that left many theater-goers, this writer included, muttering, "Someone please beat me to death with a pet rock."

A bad movie? It was awful. But not as bad as Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Roller Boogie, Foxes, Can't Stop the Music and The Pirate Movie. It's on the same mediocre level as FM, Times Square, Rock'n'Roll High School, Thank God It's Friday and Get Crazy. And it comes nowhere near the warped brilliance of Phantom of the Paradise, Over the Edge, Death Race 2000, Eraserhead and The Stunt Man.

Olivia Newton-John was much easier to watch than Neil Diamond in The Jazz Singer. But not as fun to watch as either Brooke Shields in The Blue Lagoon or Phoebe Cates in the Blue Lagoon rip-off, Paradise. (If you know all of these movies, seek help. And then come on over, and we'll watch my VHS copies of them.) While the 70's were a great time for movies (nothing like seeing Jaws at the age of 12 and then refusing to swim in the ocean on a family vacation two weeks later), those who didn't live through those times missed out on the forgettable dross, and those who weren't teenagers in the late 70's didn't bear the full brunt.

Xanadu killed a few careers. While it didn't kill the late Gene Kelly, his presence in the movie leads one to believe that his agent might have been outfitted with cement rollerskates and dropped in the Pacific after this. Michael Beck, who had such a promising start as the antiheroic gang leader in The Warriors, tanked it on this one. If he's had any major roles since then, I'm unaware of it. Every other character, aside from Olivia Newton-John, was never seen again.

The Electric Light Orchestra, who provided half of the soundtrack, lost credibility with its rock audience, thanks to their newly-acquired disco overtones. Their next album, "Discovery", although featuring the hit "Don't Bring Me Down", leaned even more in this direction and sounded exactly like what it was: Jeff Lynne running out of ideas. (Sidenote: the soundtrack to Xanadu was recently re-released, after being unavailable for years, and it offers a perversely enjoyable glimpse of Lynne's inability to decide if he wanted to be Paul McCartney or Barry Gibb.)

The plot to Xanadu? I still don't know what it is. I gather that it's about Kira (Newton-John), a rollerskating goddess who magically comes to life from a Venice, California wall mural (!!) choosing to kiss Sonny Malone (Beck), a disgruntled album cover artist, in her first "live" moments rollerskating on the trails near the beach. They spend the rest of the movie trying to figure out some way for Kira to become human and stay with Sonny. Malone meets clarinet-playing retiree Danny McGuire (Kelly) on the beach and strikes up a fast friendship in which McGuire encourages Malone to follow his dreams and become a true artist. They decide to revive a decrepit L.A. dance hall, as Danny seems to be a millionaire living in a mansion, and call this new nightclub of dreams, yes, Xanadu. What that has to do with Malone becoming a true artist, I don't know.

Oh, Christ. Stop. Stop. I can't go any further with that shamble of a story line--what an awful movie. The whole thing was an excuse to have Gene Kelly dance around for the last time and pump out a few hits for Olivia Newton-John. ("Magic" was a massive hit in the summer of 1980, and I do have fond memories of it echoing over those Jersey shore beaches.) Movies like this never had good nudity or sex scenes, even though it was the "swinging 70's," and I'd have paid twice the price to see Olivia Newton-John naked.

But no such pleasurable respites exist in this arid wasteland of creativity. Xanadu is the perfect antidote for 70's revisionists who gaze back longingly on those days they never lived quite so romantically, or never lived in the first place. The 70's weren't as bad as its naysayers claim. I have a lot of movies like Xanadu on video for their feel: a sort of berserk, sunny innocence that no longer exists and didn't really exist back then, save in movies, hit songs and television variety shows. Make no mistake: Xanadu is bad, bad, bad. But bad in a way that no longer seems possible, in a way that is specifically of the 70's, and this may be why it sometimes haunts me like an insidiously annoying Top 40 song.

Name: R
Subject: olivia
-- Jun 16, 2008 at 3:18AM
Olivia's 'british accent '??? LOL,you're a moron.

Name: Aurora A
Subject: email
-- Jun 15, 2008 at 2:36PM
oh yea, my email is greenborealis@yahoo. com

Name: Aurora A
Subject: Whever You're Away From Me
-- Jun 15, 2008 at 2:29PM
Does anyone have the sheet music to "Whenever You're Away From Me"? I've been desperately searching for it. Please email me or comment back here.

Name: Stephen
Subject: Extra songs
-- May 19, 2008 at 1:53PM
There are 3 musical segments in the movie that aren't on the soundtrack album. All of them were released in some form, but you're gonna have to do some searching to find all of them. The easiest to find are the sections from the big medley at the end of the movie. The "rock" and "country" songs are actually in the same track known as "Fool Country". It was originally the B-side of Olivia's "Magic" single, but finally found a home as a bonus track on her 2 CD set, "Gold". (Final song on the first disc).

The song "You Made Me Love You", sung as background music by Olivia during the scene where Gene Kelly is talking to the record player in his living room, was released only as the B-side for the single "Suddenly" .

The final "lost" Xanadu track is called "Drum Dreams", and is the part of the film where the Xanadu patrons are skating around in circles, chanting "Xanadu!" over and over. It was released as the B-side on two different ELO singles; "I'm Alive" and "All Over the World".

Universal Music really needs to release a new version of the soundtrack with all tracks from the film, including the Overture from the beginning of the film.

Name: Melanie
Subject: excluded songs at end of movie
-- Apr 27, 2008 at 4:13AM
I love this movie for one..but Olivia Newton John has a killer voice, so whats the deal at the end of the movie when she dresses up in all those costumes and the songs she sings isn't even the soundtrack. Can someone please tell me the name of the songs since my son scratched the hell out of my DVD (hes only 3) so Im just curious if anyone can help...Thanx

Name: Sallie Planty
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 21, 2008 at 4:29AM
I'm a Xanadu nut. I've twice rented it from Netflix and watched it twice on Netflix online. And then... and then... I bought the new Broadway version CD!
Could I be crazier?
I'm an aetheist, mostly because all current religions can't hold a candle to the flash and splash of the Greek and Roman mythologies. Who wouldn't love to believe that muses exist - even if they roller skate?!
Sure the movie was silly, but it was silly at the right time and the music was great.
Don't you be dissing my favorite film. Hope it will still be on Broadway when I get a chance to see it!

Name: Chane
Subject: Send me cover-photo again, PLEASE.
-- Nov 4, 2007 at 5:56PM
Hello to everybody. Please, someone of your send me (again) the cover-photo of the NINE SISTERS' ALBUM in big size... And too... The photo in BIG of the Muses' Mural (wall).... AND.. The order in which the 12 songs appear while the movie passes (12 because they are 10 oficial songs + 2 bonus tracks: YOU MADE ME LOVE YOU and FOOL COUNTRY).

Send me to: m3c4n0@cantv.net Thanks you.
.

Name: Ashley in NZ
Subject: The worst/best movie in history
-- Oct 10, 2007 at 2:26PM
So bad, yet it has haunted me since I was 6... I just went and saw it on Broadway (yes, it's on Broadway!!) and all of the flaws have been ironed out. Any fan of Xanadu will love it, guaranteed. It's witty, hilarious, and makes sence, unlike the movie... which i still love despite myself. Go see it on Broadway!!!!!

Name: Donna in England
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 10, 2007 at 7:36AM
ONJ's vocals, the rollerskating, MICHAEL BECK (the most HANDSOME MAN in the history of the world!), Gene Kelly, ambitious choriography ... XANADU ...

I LOVE YOU !

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- May 15, 2007 at 10:26PM
Xanadu IS Haunting! WHY!!!

Name: ROBERT
Subject: XANADU/ PURE MAGIC!
-- Apr 25, 2007 at 1:48PM
I LOVE XANADU THE MUSIC IS FLAWLESSLY, THE COSTUMES,HAIRSTYLES, MAKE -UP AND THE SET DESIGN INSPIRED. MISS NEWTON JOHN IS TRUELY HEAVEN SENT ( I ALWAYS KNEW SHE WAS A MUSE). I HAVE HAD A LONG TERM LOVE AFFAIR WITH MISS NEWTON JOHN, HER BEAUTY, TALENT AND ANGELIC VOICE IS SOMETHING I HAVE ENJOYED SINCE I WAS NINE YEARS OLD. WHEN EVER I AM DOWN AND SLIGHTLY DEPRESSED OR JUST NEED A SHOT OF GLITZ AND GLAMOUR I TOSS XANADU IN THE DVD PLAYER AND IT NEVER FAILS TO WORK IT'S "MAGIC"... XANADU IT'S CAST.. THE MESSAGE THAT ALL DREAMS CAN COME TRUE IS TIMELESS AND SOMETHING COMFORTING IN THESE TROUBLED TIMES. "YOU HAVE TO BELIEVE IT IS MAGIC"!

Name: The Wild One
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 13, 2007 at 5:12PM
I havent even heard of the movie (but after reading this I MUST see it!) I was actually looking for the poem (In Xanadu did Khubla Khan a stately pleasure dome decree ......etc.) Any ideas?

Name: Alex
Subject: <3 this movie...
-- Jan 9, 2007 at 6:55PM
I watched this movie when I would babysit across the street. I got the VHS for a gift when I was in high school. I bought the DVD special order when I was in college. I'm 23...and still love this movie. Oh, I know it was a horrible movie. But that's what's so great about it...something about the way that they lose all touch with reality and how, for even a moment, you can escape from the horrors of the world and remember when disco met the 40's...*sigh* Love this movie.

Name: Dave
Subject: the white box with the red ribbon
-- Jan 5, 2007 at 12:05AM
I have been telling friends and family about this movie i seen in the 70's about a boy who is on the phone when a big box comes in through the window. He opens it and goes off on a big adventure. My memory has totally failed me as to the name of the movie. Hope you can help.would love to try and get a copy. also there was a film made in the 70's called "Down the Corner"it was made locally in Dublin in Ireland would also love to know where i could get a copy of that. Thanks a million

Name: Nancy
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 6, 2006 at 4:03PM
I too revisited this. Thank goodness it was 'free'. I blame the director who couldn't get one believable line out of Michael Beck. Other than the crazy wardrobe, there were some salvagable parts. The wasted potential makes me sad. It could have been SOOOO much better! How 'bout a re-make?

Name: Nicole
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 6, 2006 at 1:53AM
Okay - it's a terrible movie. But isn't that why we love it?! By the way, I ALWAYS have insidiously annoying Top 40 songs in my head. You're not alone - we should start a therapy group.

Name: XanaJew
Subject: Re: pan pacific
-- Oct 14, 2006 at 8:21PM
I've got a collection.

Name: XanaJew
Subject: What Else?!
-- Oct 14, 2006 at 7:42PM
I was at last year's screening and will be at the one next week! Can't wait! I'm a huge Pan-Pacific fan as well and have a pretty decent collection of pics and artifacts from the building.

Name: Sonny Malone
Subject: XANADU SCREENING in GLENDALE, CA (10/20/2006)
-- Oct 6, 2006 at 8:16PM
For anyone who is local to Glendale, CA - the Alex Theatre (www.AlexTheatre.org ) is repeating last year's success with ANOTHER screening of XANADU -- with LIVE DANCERS on stage (a la Rocky Horror! - They got a standing ovation last year) and GUEST INTERVIEWS (including the Hot 40's Female Lead Dancer) Tix available from the Alex website! Doors at 7pm / show at 8pm -- Friday, Oct. 20th, 2006. SEE YOU THERE!!

Name: kristie
Subject: xanadu
-- Sep 2, 2006 at 10:06AM
I saw this movie as a child when it cane out in theaters and i watch it every now and again it may not be the best movie made but I will always like it as it is a good memory for me and I love the music fromthe movie

Name: Angie
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 25, 2006 at 3:01PM
I think that you Xanadu haters need to bugger off. I saw that movie for the first time when I was 4 or 5, my aunt and I stopped on that channel because we saw all of these beautiful glowing girls coming out of that mural on the wall. I have been a fan ever since. Yes watching the movie as an adult is a different experience, obviously. A bit cheesy, yes. But the music is great! Those of you who dont understand the plot-pay attention it's very simple! She is a muse, meant to inspire those she visits. She helped Danny and fell in love with Sonny which she isnt supposed to do. That's it in a nutshell. In the end she inspires both of them and they open the club. Then she has to leave so she can do the same for others. Very simple. Lighten up a bit folks and enjoy the music. You will-you can't help it. I dont dont care what you haters say-Xanadu is freakin' cool! :)

Name: Chris
Subject: Worst Movie Ever
-- May 22, 2006 at 7:41PM
I think Xanadu was probably the worst movie ever made. It doesn't make any sense whatsoever. Absolutely none. It is so bizarre and unreal, there is absolutely no human quality to it whatsoever. It seems as if it was written by a robot on drugs, or perhaps a monkey locked in a dungeon on drugs that was trying to torment all humans. It has absolutely no human quality of any sort, whatsoever. Everything about the movie is terrible, not just bad, but terrible. It requres artistic misappropriation and incredible ego, and total lack of knowledge regard art, content or style to make such an absolutely bad movie whose incredible awe inspiring unbelievably artlessness could span the decades, beyond the merely trivial shifts in human tastes. This movie is tryly the worst movie ever made.

Name: April
Subject: 9 sisters mural
-- May 18, 2006 at 11:25AM
I noticed in the past there were a lot of fans looking for the paintings or prints of the 9 sisters mural at the beginning of the movie, if u have fans that are still interested..i may be able to help them.

My email is: energyfitness88@hotm ail.com

Thanks
April

Name: steve
Subject: xanadu
-- Mar 5, 2006 at 9:13PM
everyone has their own favourite films this is a classic....i have watched it many times and love it

Name: steve
Subject: xanadu
-- Feb 2, 2006 at 12:04PM
what is so wrong with this movie? yes i am a guy,yes i am a heterosexual.it wasnt all that bad-it was 1980 for crying out loud!

Name: Steph
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 24, 2006 at 10:20PM
I think that the review stinks. This is one of my favorite movies. Come on, this is a musical made in the late 70's (released in 1980). Although the characters at times are cheesy, this is still a great movie to watch with your kids. In fact, my 6 1/2 year old son was just going through the house singing Xanadu. Quite frankly if Jordan Hoffman had actually watched this movie as a child, then it should bring back some fond memories, no reason to have someone trash it now. Grow up.

Name: kat
Subject: zanadu
-- Jan 18, 2006 at 11:19PM
the guy who wrote that bad review is so wrong. the movie is the greatest. the club was not a dance hall either, it was a place where they would wrestle

Name: Chane
Subject: The Nine Sisters' Album.
-- Jan 5, 2006 at 3:08AM
I am needing several things. If someone of you wants to send me these sew I one would be grateful for it very much. // I need, in First place: The album cover: THE NINE SISTERS (in big, not small size please) // Second: I need to know if there is a Web Site where I could download FREE this SONGS: YOU MADE ME LOVE YOU, FOOL COUNTRY and all track-list of XANADU album. // I want to know if today I even may this one buys album (XANADU) or if the Record Company put out of date this one album. Please send all to: m3c4n0@cantv.net or el_taxi_tangerine@ho tmail.com (Messenger)

Name: Melody
Subject: 9 sisters painting
-- Nov 25, 2005 at 2:47PM
I would also love to purchase a painting of the same 9 sisters painting on the wall in the movie Xanandu, if anyones had any luck finding one please let me know. thanks
my email is:chickenutzz@msn.c om

Name: Frank
Subject: KRIS OR ANYONE WHO CAN HELP: end my mural search
-- Nov 9, 2005 at 9:35AM
Ok i loved the movie, no apologies for it....i would just love to have a copy of the mural before the muses started coming alive....anyone who can help me please feel free to email me at RainbowBrte1974@yaho o.com Subject: Xanadu I would really appreciate it....Thanks alot and happy skating and romantic, whimsical singing to you all!!!!

Name: shannon
Subject: Bad?
-- Oct 7, 2005 at 11:34PM
Ok, knowing that I used to go to Rocky Horror shows in high school, I must say that Xanadu is far more creative.

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Jul 6, 2005 at 3:10AM
Whatever happened to him? I believe Lee Kramer was executive producer of Xanadu and ONJ's manager at the time. Incidentally he is English as Olivia is and Drama Greg loves putting Olivia's name and anything Australian or Melbourne together as often as brushing teeth as is evident on a popular ONJ website. BUT William S. Repsher's review of Xanadu is good: he gives credit where its due and evidently spares no one's feelings either.

Name: Andy Forrester
Subject: Lee Kramer
-- Jun 22, 2005 at 5:58AM
Anybody know how I can contact Lee Kramer?

In connection with a book I am writing

Name: British Perspective
Subject: Olivia's lovely British accent in Xanadu
-- May 14, 2005 at 6:05PM
I loved when her British accent was stronger. Xanadu just wouldn't be the same if she was speaking with a pure Australian accent or if she was transplanted to back then with the mixed Brit/Aussie/American accent she has now.
A bit more on Olivia: Olivia was born in England and lived on Hills Road in Cambridge, Eng --to be precise. Olivia's first and foremost accent was British obviously. And not only because her first home was in her native Britain where she was around her father, older siblings, their friends and extended family members who were all British, but after she moved from her native England when she was nearly 6, she moved back when she was just a teenaged kid. Her Brit accent is so evident in her obscure British film called Toomorrow and also in Grease and Xanadu. She only left Britain to move to America just a couple years before she made Grease then Xanadu. She really had spent most of her life in England up to then so her English accent and mannerisms were bound to still be with her. Back then, she'd always say she's English- which is right -and that she lived 10 years or so of her life in Australia. She pointed out that it was rumoured that she was from Australia but that she's really from England. Oh Yes, Xanadu would seem so different if her accent was superimposed with another accent other than her so much more Brit accent in the movie.

Name: Greg
Subject: Olivia's accent & Xanadu
-- May 7, 2005 at 10:01PM
Although born in England, Olivia was raised in Melbourne from the age of 5 to 16. She'd have a Melburnian accent if she had anything or "Victorian" ; if you want to narrow it down to the state she's from. Its a softer version of the usual full-on "ocker" sound other Aussie's have. Victorian's don't drawlllll so much in their pronunciation.

Back to Xanadu:
Good review William!

While the soundtrack betters Grease in my opinion, the movie is not without its flaws. It was sooo bad it was unforgetable! Then again it be worse to be a forgetable film I suppose. Xanadu will be forever infamous. Whether you love it or hate it - you know about it!! Its certainly a favourite guilty pleasure for me. At least today you can get away with admitting to it. LOL

Cheers

Greg

Name: Jeff
Subject: Olivia is not British ...
-- Apr 8, 2005 at 11:51PM
Howdy,

Yes, Xanadu is a guilty pleasure for many of us, as well as Olivia Newton John at her hottest :-) She doesn't have a British accent, nor is British as she is from Australia.

Peace,

Jeff

Name: Georgette
Subject: xanadu
-- Mar 23, 2005 at 7:34PM
hi my name is georgette.i believe everyone has the right tot there own opinion.i heard yours know its time to hear mine.i am 15 years old and i LOVE XANADU. i think its better then grease (thou most ppl disagree with me on that)i love everything about the movie.it might have been a flop in 1980, but it has since become a cult classic.i am a olivia newton-john fan too, in fact if it wasnt for her or Mr.Gene Kelly i never would have heard of the movie.but i still love that movie.i have the vhs,dvd,cd soundtrack,and album lp.i think it is one of the best movie musicals and it is #1 on my top fave musicals.thank you for listening to my point of view.

georgette

Name: Don-O
Subject: Xanadu: the insanity continues
-- Mar 2, 2005 at 3:20AM
Good Hello! My name is Don Fields and I'm a Xanadu fan,

"Hi, Dooon"

Bad jokes aside. Normally, I'd share my own Xanadu story/testimony (sic) here, but am not.

As I'm the guy behind 'The Xanadu Preservation Society' web site, so I'll let the site do the fanboy talk for me.

BTW, we've linked this page from our site for the past few years. Guess I'm responsible for a quater of the fights on this board.

Anyboy willing to place bets that Universal will officaily notice the film's 25 anniversary year?

Not holding my breath either,
Don-O

Name: Donna
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 9, 2005 at 10:31PM
As cheesy as this movie was, I loved it. I'm all about kitsch, and miss the good old days of the late 70's and early 80's. Those were such easier times. I'm in my mid to late 30's now, and love to remenisce about those days. Thanks for your time.

Name: All Over The World
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 21, 2004 at 9:29PM
Got that right Mor, it certainly is much easier listening to Olivia Newton-John's British accent than listening to Michael Beck. Her sweet voice and British accent brought much needed tolerance to the not so thrilling script-- and the music is good, thank goodness.

Name: Mick
Subject: Theme Party
-- Nov 2, 2004 at 6:29PM
I'm throwing a Xanadu Theme Party and would love any ideas anyone has to entertain a bunch of recent unruly converts to the masterpiece that is XANADU!!

Name: josh
Subject: xanadu images
-- Sep 27, 2004 at 2:48AM
would love an image of the nine sisters album cover or the street mural in the film !!!!!!!

Name: nadine
Subject: about xanadu
-- Sep 25, 2004 at 11:26PM
I want to know where i could find this movie. please if you have a adress send me a e-mail.thank you everybody.

Name: Mor
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 13, 2004 at 4:29AM
The musical numbers were the saving(?) grace of Xanadu, but... it's so more much easier listening to Olivia Newton-John's British accent than listening to Michael Beck. Yes, sometimes a British person in the lead role makes a film more watchable, especially, the boys are saying right now, when it's a gorgeous girl like Olivia.

Name: Edenfilm
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 12, 2004 at 11:15PM
Yes, the DVD is quite beautiful. An excellent transfer. But what doesn't seen to transfer for most of the reader's here is the movie's intent. To understand that you would have to know the inspiration of the movie. That,of course, was the glorious Rita Hayworth turning the sequel to the very popular HERE COMES MR. JORDAN (which, by the way was re-made by Warren Beatty into the very popular HEAVEN CAN WAIT) into a musical which was called DOWN TO EARTH. Does that make sense to you? I hope not, then I have explained myself too well. That's the whole point. Movies only have one responsibility and that is to entertain. I think that is what this film set out to do, and quite a chancy thing to do at the time. The film, I will freely admit, is not a good one, but a noble one. To try to bring some joy into a season filled with the first FRIDAY THE THIRTEENTH as a major blockbuster and a load of other crap, it at least deserves some kuddos for trying. You can hate it, you can love it..........but it can't be dismissed as a major cultural artifact which attempted to bring the culture of the old and the new together.........and for you many fans of the film you KNOW it succeeded........... ..Edenfilm

Name: richlatino
Subject: xanadu
-- Jul 6, 2004 at 6:27PM
i just got this camp classic on DVD, now i can drool over an already perfect Olivia without all the glitches and snow that vhs had to offer. Don't you all love the way the movie has captured Olivia's heavenly beauty esp ONJ in the tiger outfit grrrrrrrr

Name: Claudio
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 13, 2004 at 9:17PM
We need fantasy in today`s world that we live in.
ONJ is a good singer and sweet person.That duet with Gene Kelly is great and also the music of ELO.I`ve kept the Xanadu spirit alive with my address.

Name: Marcus
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 25, 2004 at 9:29AM
I LOVED THIS FILM!! For the time it was filmed the effects were great!! The way the Muse would dissapear was GREAT!! A 9.5 for sure!!

Name: Kris
Subject: Mural
-- Mar 22, 2004 at 3:09AM
I have a 48" X 60" painting of the mural that was created for the film, anyone interested in seeing it?

Name: Zan
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 17, 2004 at 4:29AM
I would rate Xanadu at a 7, ( 1 being worst and 10 being best.)I really enjoyed the tale, yes Michael Beck couldn't act ( Another William Shatner ). But the main point to the movie is don't give up your desires and dreams in life can happen if you work at it. This movie sent a very positive message to alot of teens back in the 80's. So don't ridicule the movie and the story behind it. Blame the actors who can't act.

Name: Alice Keymer
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 16, 2004 at 8:43PM
Yes let's call a truce, after I've told you that Xanadu isn't as bad as the Sgt Pepper film (by a very thin margin) but Sgt Pepper is definately better than Grease 2

Name: Alice Keymer
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 16, 2004 at 8:43PM
Yesm let's call a truce, after I've told you that Xanadu isn't as bad as the Sgt Pepper film (by a very thin margin) but Sgt Pepper is definately better than Grease 2

Name: Colleen again
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 9, 2004 at 1:56PM
<3 <3 OLIVIA IS SO VERY BEAUTIFUL AND TIMELESS <3 <3

Name: Colleen
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 9, 2004 at 1:51PM
I just want to say I really enjoyed this magical movie. I am 33 and I saw this movie when I was around 13 with my childhood best friend at the time "Holly". Olivia is BREATHTAKING in Xanadu! She is so so so pretty! I loved her character and costumes!! This movie really takes ya to a different place! I think Olivia is a beautiful person inside and out, that is so RARE! I hope she is winning her battle with cancer. Her daughter Chloe is also VERY beautiful! I loved the music in the movie also! When I have children, I want them to see this wonderful, fun movie for sure.. it is timeless, and so is Olivia!! <3 <3 <3

Name: Kirk
Subject: Ultimate Resource
-- Feb 13, 2004 at 8:57AM
Hey everyone, I can't take the time to find your emails, etc. But if you are really interested to get posters, pictures, albums, tracks, etc. Just go to:

http://gemm.com/ q.cgi?rb=JGDB&ti tle=Xanadu

Name: JT
Subject: Xanadu
-- Feb 7, 2004 at 12:27AM
In early 1980, I was working in Mississippi, one year removed from a major midwestern college. I drove over 90 miles to see Xanadu when it opened (I had collected her albums while in school), and was (I'm continually bemused to admit) entranced.
Of course it was a poorly made movie. For all the reasons already posted -- and especially the stultifyingly drab Mr. Beck. But for a 21-year-old guy struggling to start a career while going through his first bout of loneliness, Olivia was simply magical.
My two favorite scenes was the Kelly-ONJ scene, because I interpreted it as Kelly's real-life lament of what life (and musicals) once were. Of course, he didn't have anything to do with the writing of the scene, but I could feel the nostalgia of what he and musical numbers once were ... and he continued to have more charisma than 98 percent of the actors of his ilk. I later heard that he was disgusted by the movie and his performance, which I can only regret. It wasn't Our Town, but this scene was quite touching.
The other favorite scene was "Suddenly" , simply for the goofy over-the-top campiness of it. Who among us red-blooded males didn't dream of finding a muse (or a girlfriend) who could offer love and companionship, while still winking back at us at the silliness of it all? The whole scene seemed to play out as a early rehearsal of an old Jackie Gleason dance number ... rising props and descending chimneys. It was light-hearted, sentimental but wholly aware of its own goofiness.
Twenty years later, my wife and I watched it on VHS. She's always considered me a pretty serious fellow, and was pretty amazed that I would like Xanadu, which she considered pretty weak. But she also admitted that any male who could get a little misty-eyed over the Kelly-ONJ dance or at the final Xanadu opening night might just be salvagable.
Then again, I must admit I've always envied Matt Lattanzi ... to be a teen and picked up by ONJ as a boy toy and eventually a husband ...

Whew!

Name: heather
Subject: Xanadu
-- Feb 2, 2004 at 3:47PM
romantic cheese that i have fond memories of from girlhood-Olivia Newon-John could have shoveled shit and I would have loved it

Name: Jim
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 12, 2004 at 9:09AM
There is no dought
Xanadu was extremely
goofy right especially the diolouge. All in all
It was one big music
video. Olivia is so
beautiful and for that reason I still
watch that ultra
tacky thing.

Name: Kristy
Subject: RE: Mikey's request on Pan Pacific 8/10/03
-- Nov 29, 2003 at 10:50PM
lots of historical photos & info at:
www.hollywoodpho tographs.com. Search for 'Pan Pacific'.

Name: Zeus Of lower Appolonia
Subject: Xanadu-don't
-- Oct 16, 2003 at 3:26AM
Since the beginning of film, I.E. the old greats at paramont, Universals Kent paul's glory dayz there has not been a film now since that has delivered such a powerful sensuality in it's message to us. perhaps Charles Bronson's Death Wish 4?....

Name: Jere
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 4, 2003 at 1:12AM
I'm a bit older than some of the posters. I saw it for the first time when I was over 30. I'm now over 50 and here because I wanted to check out something as I watched the tape yet again.

Xanadu WAS overacted, WAS unrealistic, WAS campy...

intentionally.

It was, in many respects, a 40's movie. Gawd most of them were so unrealistic! But they're classics because their timeless messages were so well presented that we believed.

It was a blend of late 70s and 40s, real & imagined, myth and magic.

The message wasn't subtle: Dreams really CAN come true -- IF you believe and work toward creating them.

I have to admit that Olivia was a draw, but not as much as Sandall Bergman (sp?) (the REALLY good dancer).

The scene blending swing and rock (also not subtle) was inspired.

And we named our boat Xan-a-Deux: Our pleasure dome - for just us two. (We took the name from the original Coleridge poem quoted in the movie: Kubla Khan.)

No, it's not a *good* movie, but I feel sad for those that can't get into its magic and FEEL good.

Name: Padraigh
Subject: Xanadu was a remake
-- Sep 27, 2003 at 3:08AM
In case nobody mentioned, the XANADU script largely parallels the 1940s GENE KELLY (and others) film, "COVER GIRLS". In fact, Gene's character name in BOTH movies is Danny MaGuire. And the whole scene leading up to the big-band dance between Newton-John and Kelly is rooted in COVER GIRLS. XANADU's beauty, as with any piece of ART, lies in the eye of the beholder: One say "sucks", another says "sparkles" . Olivia Newton-John's physical beauty alone is enough to warrant repeated watchings of the film.. or so saith I. Peace out.

Name: Theo
Subject: And it's still a pleasure to follow it
-- Sep 22, 2003 at 6:25AM
... even though the threas has not been that active, those times

Name: michael
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Sep 17, 2003 at 3:01PM
Well this thread is officailly over 4 years old.

Name: mikey
Subject: pan pacific
-- Aug 10, 2003 at 9:50PM
I would be interested in any photos of the pan pacific auditorium, inside and out,any timeframe

thanx

Name: Alexander Jos� Garc�a
Subject: My E-mail adress is...
-- Jul 14, 2003 at 3:17PM
My e-mail adress is: m3c4n0@cantv.net

To that you can send-me the album-cover THE NINE SISTERS.

Name: Alexander Jos� Garc�a
Subject: The Nine Sisters' album-cover ( Xanadu film )
-- Jul 14, 2003 at 3:11PM
Hello to everybody.

I have been looking for long time the album-cover of "The nine sisters".

This is an scene of the film XANADU.

Please, it's urgent, for love of God, If someboty have in yours power this photo (album-cover THE NINE SISTERS) please send-me it as soon as possible to my e-mails adrees ( e-mail = m3c4n0|cantv.net ).

Thank ahead!

Wrote for you:
Alexander Jos� Garc�a Hern�ndez
Caracas city-Venezuela.

Name: kola oguntoyinbo
Subject: i need an agent
-- Jul 4, 2003 at 5:12PM
my name is coach kola oguntoyinbo,i have so many players with me now like five of them ,and i know that you are a best person i can deal with,i know that you will help me out of this,this boy are under 17 invitees of national league and i know that you dont take bribe and i know that you are a right person and i have their C.V on me and i know that you will help me .

Name: Allison
Subject: Xanado mural
-- Jul 1, 2003 at 3:32PM
I've also been looking for images of the mural, but in case none of you know, it never actually "existed". It was a digital image- not bad for 1980- superimposed over an alleyway in either Santa Monica or L.A. (I can't remember which).

Name: xanadude
Subject: camp/cult classic
-- Jun 29, 2003 at 10:51PM
So yeah the acting sucked, but it's still one of those movies you can't help but love -- for just the shear sense of what they were trying to portray. It was daring in a lot of ways.
Like the tagline says "a fantasy, a spectacle..."

And the MUSIC speaks for itself! Olivia at her prime! Call it a longform music video, but definately a "guilty pleasure."

Now if we could only uncover the original 2- hour cut of the movie...

Name: ONJfan4eva
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 29, 2003 at 9:59PM
I have to say I loved this movie...with all the shit in the world, it's nice to have an ascape.

Name: James
Subject: Must Be Something To It
-- Jun 29, 2003 at 5:15PM
I agree Xanadu was not a great movie but there was some great radio music! There must be somthing to it, if after 20 years there is still this much conversation about Xanadu.

Name: richlatino
Subject: Olivia-the Goddess
-- Jun 29, 2003 at 12:34PM
i went to see this movie when i was 15.olivia was and still is sex on legs. I'm glad the producers captured her heavenly beauty, proving she was the goddess we all knew she was.The film is bad , but the soundtrack is aweswome. Olivia was at her HOTTEST in popularity stakes and in the Babe dept.When is this classic movie gonna be released in the UK on DVD.

Name: German Tarkanova
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 9, 2003 at 5:12PM
hola Pili de donde quieras que sea me gustaria que me enviaras un correo para poder contactarte y asi poder inter cambiar peliculas saludo. TEQUIERO OLIVIA

Name: Mark
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 9, 2003 at 12:43PM
Great mix of Greek Mythology - big band era and disco - it was a musical so it doesn't have to have a plot! It was an escape from reality.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: You suck!!
-- Jun 7, 2003 at 9:30AM
There's only one possible response to this post, and here it is:

!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

See! I have more exclamation points than you!!!!!!!!!

Name: Lesley
Subject: You suck!!
-- Jun 6, 2003 at 10:31PM
This is one of the BEST movies ever made!!! Open your closed little mind and breath in all the positive energy!!!

Name: melissa
Subject: not aMUSEd
-- Jun 1, 2003 at 9:06AM
This movies is GREAT, even though it did not do well at the Box Office. The music and the dancing was great, and as a studier of Ancient History, I think it is safe to say that the characterisation, particularly of Olivia Newton- John was good. Kira was one of the 9 daughters of Zeus, but her name is not really Kira, it is in fact Terpsichore, the muse of Dance and of choral song. LONG LIVE THE SPIRIT OF GENE KELLY!

Name: OX
Subject: Pan Pacific
-- May 29, 2003 at 8:30PM
Interested in Pan Pacific photos referred to by Todd on 3/9/2002 and Mike on 12/16/2002.

Name: Li
Subject: A World Record Yet?
-- Apr 27, 2003 at 7:00PM
Has this thread set a record for being the longest thread, yet? I came across this thread by accident about a year and a half ago(I think), and was already amazed that it had started, just barely into 1999. Amazing! It seems Olivia is so well-liked that even judge Simon of American Idol said he likes Olivia and that she's cute. I doubt he'd have the same sentiments about Xanadu though.

Name: trevor
Subject: xanadu
-- Apr 26, 2003 at 11:58PM
FAIR DINKUM"
PLEASE AT LEAST GIVE SOME CREDIT TO E.L.O.
JEFF LYNN WOULD HAVE TO BE ONE OF THE WORLDS GREATEST MUSICAL TALENTS OF THE 70s.
AS FOR OLIVIA// WELL IM FROM DOWN UNDER AND WE STILL TO THIS VERY DAY CALL HER OUR OWN .

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu and roller disco
-- Apr 19, 2003 at 4:16PM
I'm speechless. Christ, roller disco skating, and programming? Can't top that.

Xanadu is the Citizen Kane of roller disco movies. Rosebud ... Rosebud ... Rosebud ...

Name: Merlyne
Subject: Xanadu and roller disco
-- Apr 19, 2003 at 12:48PM
Greetings to all that love this movie. This is the first time I have ever posted a comment to anything on-line but after reading the article and the responses I felt I had to. I came across this article by chance while desperately searching(again) for any copies of the movies Skatetown USA and Roller Boogie. Why are people so critical of these three movies, disco music, roller disco, and the seventies in general? These movies were never intended to make a social/political statement, cure cancer, or change the face of modern cinema. As someone else pointed out, the makers had to know that no awards would ever be won by these works. They are exactly what they were made to be: wonderful sources of entertainment. You can watch them without having to think about anything, just enjoy them. Disco music was and is fun. You can move to it. Disco is alive and well and living in my music collection. I will never understand what caused the "I hate disco" movement. I have a theory that many people are closet disco lovers. They listen to and enjoy disco music but are afraid to admit it. I love music from the seventies, eighties, and some from the nineties and today. Music from the seventies was funky and fun. Music from the eighties had that techno sound and is very cool. Music in the nineties began to develop a grittiness that has carried over into the new milleniuum. I find it insulting that people will put down disco and dismiss it as nothing more than shallow on the one hand, but will listen to a current song that gets it's hook from samples of those "shallow" songs. Roller disco was and is one of my favorite hobbies. I learned on quad skates and that is what I still use. During skating sessions I have many young people ask me where I learned all of my moves and could they learn? I tell them that I learned during the seventies roller disco craze and would be glad to show them but they will need to get off the blades and on the quads first. I have nothing against freedom of choice but I feel that roller blades are one of the worst things that ever happened to rink skating. I see children struggling to skate on them. They have difficulty navigating, changing direction, and stopping. Now before anyone jumps on me, I own a pair of blades and can skate on them, but I can't do what I enjoy doing unless I am on the quads. It also saddens me to see the sport I enjoy turned into little more than a baby-sitter and birthday party venue. Some background on me. I am a Christian, very happily married white male, 46 years old chronologically, 18 years old biologically and mentally. I enjoy a career as a software developer. My background is in electronics and technology. Let's put it this way; the word "Geek" is a term of endearment around our hose. My three passions in life are, in order: Christ, roller disco skating, and programming. I got hooked on roller skating in the mid-seventies when my mom took me to Red Wing Rollerway on Washington Rd. in Augusta, GA for a Sunday afternoon session. I was 16 at the time and could skate but not very well. I was having an average time when a song came on that caused something to click in me. The song was "Dancing Machine" by the Jackson Five and when I heard that song and saw people dance skating to it, I knew that I had to learn. As soon as I had transportation and enough money to buy my first pair of skates, I was at that rink every time the doors were open. I developed a love for disco skating and continue to enjoy it to this day. God has truly given me a wonderful gift in my skating and as long as He gives me the strength and the ability to get out there I will continue. I currently skate at Sparkles on Grayson Hwy in Lawrenceville, GA. If you are there and see a bald white guy with a goatie and black skate covers throwing down on the floor there is a 99.9% probability that it is me. My hope is that if I keep on long enough the kids will realize that this is fun and give it a try. Sorry to be so long-wineded but I needed to get this off my chest. If there is anyone out there who feels the same I would love to hear from you. Shoot me a line at: merlyne2000@netscape .net

Name: kit
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 8, 2003 at 9:06AM
I absolutly love Xanadu, i think it is a great movie, how dare you put it down, my god! Maybe if you could make a movie as good as that you wouldn't be doing what your doing today!!!

Name: Jonah Falcon
Subject: Question answered!
-- Apr 7, 2003 at 10:49PM
Xanadu answered the question we'd all been begging to ask:

What do you get when you mix 1940's big band with 1980's glam rock?

Easy. You get a 1970's roller disco circus! Silly ME!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Mar 17, 2003 at 6:41AM
True, but I suspect with the size of Kevin Costner's ego that he believes he could rollerskate across the surface of the ocean.

Name: Kelly
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 17, 2003 at 1:59AM
I respect your views on Xanadu, but I was a late 70s baby who was mesmerised by all of the above "bad" parts of the movie.
Xanadu was and still is a clasic. At least its not water world.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: ELO
-- Feb 1, 2003 at 7:58AM
Bagging on ELO? You ought to check out the Leisure Suit article I did on them -- hardly bagging. Go find it. I think the title has "Geek Love" in it -- if you can't find it directly on the website, go to Google and type in "Repsher" "Geek Love" and "Leisure" -- that should hopefully turn it up.

Name: Kylie
Subject: ELO
-- Feb 1, 2003 at 7:04AM
Yeah the movie may have been badly acted out but it wasn't meant to be like reality.Its a fantasy movie. As for your review on the ELO part of it,Jeff lynne did a terriffic job considering what he was given to work with.Just don't bag out decent music!ELO rules!

Name: pili
Subject: dispongo de la pelicula de xanadu
-- Jan 23, 2003 at 5:04AM
tengo la pelicula xanadu en formato divx y hablada en ingles...
me gustar�a conseguirla en espa�ol.
pongo la que tengo a disposicion de todo el mundo...
por favor enviar el correo en espa�ol
gracias!!!

Name: Xanadu
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 21, 2003 at 8:54PM
Xanadu fans! Check out the Brazilian website addicted to Xanadu! http://www.xanadubra sil.kit.net/

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu
-- Dec 30, 2002 at 6:48AM
"Waist" of space ... true genius has finally arrived on this website!

Name: dan
Subject: xanadu
-- Dec 29, 2002 at 10:48PM
your review sucked!

It was a great "contemporary&q uot; atempt at a musical, when hollywood was except for disco and gene kelly...pretty much moldy and musty... Gene's last mucical was by far a great contribution to the decade...
Reviewer,
What do you know about the 80's genre?

Such a waist of space here on the internet...

:o)

Name: Todd
Subject: Pan-Pacific Pictures
-- Dec 24, 2002 at 4:40AM
Mike, my e-mail address is Casslvr@aol.com.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Best website for Xanadu
-- Dec 23, 2002 at 7:00PM
Panda, if we stop believing in the magic of Xanadu, then the terrorists have clearly won.

Name: Panda
Subject: Best website for Xanadu
-- Dec 23, 2002 at 5:58PM
This is by far the best web site for everything Xanadu.... includes everything from merchandise that was marketed and sold, original reviews of the movie, stuff about the script, fashion and music to pictures of the old Pan Pacific building and pictures of the NEW building that has been put up in it's place. Go to "The Xanadu Preservation Society" on the web at http://www.geocities .com/xanadupreservat ion/

Name: Panda
Subject: scary
-- Dec 23, 2002 at 5:53PM
Mr. Repsher, I'm losing faith in humanity from all the xanaphiles that are obviously in need of therapy (myself included). Every time I return to check out this board, I get chills down my spine knowing that one day, a future President of the United States will be a Xanadu junky. It's inevitable since it clearly seems every kid of the 70's couldn't escape seeing this flick.....hmmm... I'm thinking J.Lo and Ben Affleck for the remake....thoughts?

Name: Doreen
Subject: role model
-- Dec 22, 2002 at 4:44PM
I have to agree with some comments awhile back that Olivia was a role model for those of us girls who were 10-14 when the movie came out. I like the muse idea, seven sisters, roller skating, music, romance and Gene Kelly too.

Name: Mike
Subject: Pan-Pacific
-- Dec 16, 2002 at 5:19AM
To Todd who wrote on
March 9,2002 about
pictures of Pan Pacific Auditorium, plus other
pictures, please let us know how to make contact with you.

Thanks

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: XANADU
-- Nov 20, 2002 at 1:30PM
Had the muse given him a porpoise instead of a purpose, it would have been a much more interesting movie.

Name: DONNA
Subject: XANADU
-- Nov 20, 2002 at 1:27PM
Yes I am a teen of the 70's
the plot was an artist loosing his joy in his work no inspiration so a muse is sent to him to give him a pourpose in art she is one of the seven muses of the gods of greek mythology
she is the youngest yes he is her first kiss but no she does not just find him there is a pourpose in the plot art is important to the gods and if he looses it then beauty fades and the pourpose of the muse also fades

Name: shannonmarie
Subject: xanadu
-- Nov 1, 2002 at 6:25PM
I am proud to admit that I am a huge fan of the movie. Maily because there is no plot, you don't have to think about anything. It's all laid out on the table for you. A little music, a little acting( OK, so maybe that's an exageration) and a little nostalgia. I usually see the movie 3 or 4 times a year, just to keep up, and of course, I listen to the soundtrack at least once a week. I've even got my 2 year old listening to it in the car. (Of course, he's trapped in a five point harness in the back seat with no chance of escape---I can only hope that after several years of brainwashing, he too will be a fan of Xanadu!

Name: HBU-1736
Subject: Insanity!?!
-- Oct 28, 2002 at 12:19PM
I have seen many films, and bad films have a special place in my heart (the "best" quite possibly being Death Wish III). Xanadu, however, is easily the worst film I have ever seen. To anyone who appreciates this film --other than as camp, a cult film, or as purely inane -- as cinema, ARE YOU INSANE? This film is, in the words of the reviewer, "bad, bad, bad." It contains nothing of merit, and its attempt to look and feel "futuristic&quo t; make Tron look like a viable portrait of the near future. It is, of course, capable of giving a few laughs -- far fewer, however, than the best of camp cinema.

Name: christian
Subject: could it be fate???
-- Oct 24, 2002 at 6:18PM
well, i guess i'll start by saying that no one could ever deminish the way i feel about the movie xanadu. EVER! i first saw xanadu when i was in second grade. i was on my first date. with a pretty little girl that i used to walk home. my father took us to the drive-in and as we ( my date and i) sat in the back of my fathers pick-up it started...XANADU. we had no idea what movie was playing we just wanted to go to the drive-in. the movie was mesmorizing...we were both caught in the grip of this collage of styles, sounds and emotions...maybe it was our age who knows... but, it moved us and 15 years later we were married...and last year we had our first child a girl....her name KIRA...for us there could be no other choice...we even sit down together and watch xanadu every once in a while everytime being transported back to second grade the rest of the world dissapearing while we hold each others hand, just like we did at the drive-in that first night...now, we know that xanadu is not the best acted or well written movie. but, who ever said it had to be. do you really think anyone involved with the project actually thought they were gonna walk away with an oscar because of it. no, i dont either but, it is still a fun and entertaining movie and that is the magic of it. people should stop trying to make it more than it is. xanadu is a movie like it or not watch it or not but, if you sit and watch it for what it is and not what you think it should be you just may find the "magic" that brought my wife and myself together....

Name: Ryan
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 20, 2002 at 3:24PM
I loved this movie when I was ten because I thought it was magical. I love it now because its so cheesey you could melt it on top of a hamburger! Olivia was and is a terrific singer, but a god-awful actress. Michael Beck was pretty to look at but he wasn't exactly the Larry Olivier of his generation either. The music is great, the lyrics just so-so. Its one of those movies that you just can't adequately describe, it must be seen!!!

Name: rachael
Subject: xanadu
-- Oct 15, 2002 at 12:18AM
i first saw this movie when i was 4 years old sitting athome with my mum on a rainy day. it seemed magical to me then, just as it does now. the song 'suddenly' still puts me in a trance wheneva i hear it. i may be abit of a daggy movie with not-so-good acting, but i'll watch it over most movies anyday

Name: Tony Bihn
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 11, 2002 at 10:29PM
I thought this movie had excellent songs and great choreography. But I also thought that the ending kinda sucked!!

Name: Mooby
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 10, 2002 at 11:59AM
I was nine when I saw Xanadu in the theaters...I stayed and watched it three times that first day. I own the soundtrack on lp, tape, and cd, and I have the vHS and (YES!) DVD version of the movie itself...I live breathe, eat, sleep, and love this movie. When I do eventually have a daughter, her name will be Kira, no kidding!...but your review is funny as hell! What DID ever become of Michael Beck? I am inspired to research this now! Thanks for the laugh!

Mooby

Name: Miss France
Subject: To Pedro Argenti
-- Oct 10, 2002 at 5:07AM
Okay then, all is forgiven for both sides...

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: To Miss France
-- Oct 9, 2002 at 5:49PM
Miss France, there was a misunderstood in here. I'm not your enemy. I don't see any problem about sex and homossexuality. I think that people should be happy just the way they are. I was thinking that you were an intolerant person. Thanks God I was wrong, 'cause it's thanks to people filled up with evil in their minds that the whole world is not a big Xanadu. I'm really sorry about the misunderstood I accidentaly created. To be sincere I was thinking you were one of those ridiculous moralists that always look for the evil in everything they see. Please, forgive me.

Name: Miss France
Subject: Answer to Mr. Repsher
-- Oct 8, 2002 at 9:50AM
Dear Mr. Repsher,

I'm really happy, even honored, that you answered.

Of course, I know there can be worse opinions than Pedro Argenti's. It was just a way to incite people to react.

But I think you guessed...

Name: Steve Milton
Subject: Get Over Yourselves
-- Oct 8, 2002 at 9:32AM
I just saw Olivia live the other night ans she was amazing. She did a few songs from the movie and I felt so lucky to experience it. She did a version of Dancin' with her band and it came out so good. I was smiling out of excitement the whole time. I was that 9 year old boy all over again, just like the first time I saw Xanadu. Xanadu isn't the best movie ever made but it sure is one of my faves. My kids even like it.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: To Pedro, again
-- Oct 8, 2002 at 8:38AM
Er, uh, Ms. France, go to any Islamic country in 2002, flagrantly kiss a same-sex partner on a crowded street and see what happens. You'll be lucky if the police get to you before the crowd does - either way, you're looking at a death sentence.

Otherwise, more power to you. You ought to check out Kerry Douglas Dye's review of Redford's The Natural on this website to explore topics of a similar vein, no pun intended. Let's just say sometimes a baseball bat isn't just a baseball bat.

Name: Miss France
Subject: To Pedro, again
-- Oct 8, 2002 at 7:48AM
Pedro,

Obviously, you think that free sex and homosexuality means evil. I can't respect that. It's the most intolerant thing I've ever read here (and even out there). I don't accept that kind of thought. And no, I don't have any issues about my sexuality, and I'm very proud to be gay.

And I insisted on the fact that you can be pleased by the movie watching it with an extreme innocence. To prove I'm sincere (even though I don't consideer I owe you a proof), I watched Mary Poppins twice within two years and every time I cried like a child during the whole movie because I find really beautilful. And I've got that kind of reaction every day.

It's not a good reason to ignore the other parts of a human being. And sexuality is not a dark side! There is no reason to think sex is dirty and I think you are the one with issues.

Intolerant guys like you always have their own issues to think that way.

PS: If anyone else is shocked by Pedro Argenti's opinions, please write a message. I didn't think there were people able to think like that in 2002.

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: To Miss France
-- Oct 7, 2002 at 9:50PM
Dear Miss France, I respect your opinion about the movie. If you see it that way... Well, it's your problem. I'm trying to say that the evil is the people's minds. If you see the movie as a dirty demoniac masterpiece that apologizes free sex and homossexuality it's because you, maybe unconscious, have serious troubles with these issues. Read below and you'll find out that the only one who believes that Xanadu is full of hidden-porn stuff is you. I'm really sad about people who doesn't believe anymore in innocence and pure fun. One of the most impressive thing in Xanadu is the way it deals with sex and sexuality, showing something idealized, spiritualized, not this awful and slutty way the society insists to be so perfect. It's because of dirty minds that the whole world is not a big paradise, a fantastic Xanadu.

Name: Miss France
Subject: To Pedro
-- Oct 3, 2002 at 5:11PM
Pedro, you may see it that way.

But the interpretation that comes first to my mind (and i'm extremely serious about it) is sex. And I'm totally respectful when I say that. But you can't ignore that it starts with "a place where nobody dared to go". I think it's pretty obvious and you can watch that kind of details and understories during the whole movie and the other songs : the trees rising between Olivia and Michael Beck during SUDDENLY, the gay plotline between Gene Kelly and Michael Beck, the orgasm when the two different eras mix at the end of DANCIN' (completely related to the relationship Gene/Michael) and many more... It never ends and it's too obvious and too repetitive to be a coincidence.

Maybe many fans won't be happy after my saying that, but I'm a XANADU aficionado myself and I think it gives the film a point. You can read it at several levels and gives it different meanings. You can choose to see it with a child's eyes as a wonderful movie full of surprises; you can see it like an adult and think it's a completely futile and ridiculous movie but still enjoying it; and finally you can see it as an adult ready to read between the lines, to see what's not said (like all the mockery around the 'actor' Michael Beck, all the sexual allusions, all the references to the old musicals...). I've seen it the three ways (even more I think) and the movie gives the impression that even though it�s quickly made, people who created the movie took a lot of pleasure sliding into the actual movie their own version of the film.

What do you think of all that, Pedro?

Name: Tiara
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 3, 2002 at 8:46AM
I absolutely love that movie! I first watched it six years ago, when I was 8 years old...and I've loved it ever since! I don't see why it's so bad...Olivia Newton-John was dazzling - The music was amazing and I loved the fantasy feel towards it all! If it wasn't for Xanadu, I would never have started my singing career...It was because of Olivia that I started. I never knew about Olivia until I watched that movie...It was then when I realised how much I loved music. I've sung the songs from the soundtrack and won a numerous amount of competitions...Xanad u is part of the reason that I've become who I am today.

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: Lyrics to Xanadu
-- Oct 2, 2002 at 8:41PM
Michelle, I agree with you. The lyrics to this song were made to rhyme... But anyway, this song has a good meaning and gives a free interpretation which can be very personal. Xanadu is that place where everyone wishes to go, a paradise as Marco Polo wrote centuries ago about a lost land with golden roof's buildings and rare spices only found in the misterious Indias. Xanadu will is the real land of the free and the home of the dreamers. More than a place where nobody dared to go, Xanadu is a place where any dream can come true.

Name: German Tarkanova
Subject: la pelicula de xanadu
-- Oct 1, 2002 at 11:40AM
POR FAVOR QUE ALGUIEN ME PASE UN CORREO Y EXPLIQUE DONDE PODRE CONSEGUIR LA PELUCULA DE XANADU EN ESPA�OL O SUBTITULO EN ESPA�OL OLIVIA TE AMO

Name: German tarkanova
Subject: Olivia Newton Jhon
-- Oct 1, 2002 at 11:14AM
Olivia te amo desde peque�o por favor si puedes pasarme un e-mail ami correo germantar@hotmail.co m o germantar@cantv.net te extra�o muchisimo porque no has grabado la segunda parte de XANADU,en Venezuela te queremos muchisimo desde peque�o cuando te vi en la pelicula grease1 e adorado tu trabajo artistico, tu carisma, tu ternura, ademas de tus peliculas que aunque no son muchas, pienso que como actriz eres excelente y te adoro muchisimo y te extra�o por favor busca grabar la segunda parte de XANADU PERO QUE SEA ALGO APOTISICO ALGO GRANDE, TE ADORO Y SALUDO GERMAN TARKANOVA

Name: German tarkanova
Subject: la pelicula de xanadu
-- Oct 1, 2002 at 11:04AM
excelente pelicula deberian transmitrila en los canales de tv.locales de venezuela ademas todas las peliculas que realizo Olivia netown jhon muy pero muy buenas por favor psenme un correo a la direccion siguiente germantar@cantv.net good sountrack exselent.

Name: The Guru
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 18, 2002 at 8:03PM
You are all clowns!

Name: Simonie
Subject: Xanadu Live! AGAIN
-- Sep 4, 2002 at 7:43PM
go to www.xanadulive.homes tead.com and you'll find all the info you need on a production of Xanadu Live! in the St. Louis area at Miner's Theatre at the end of this month and the beginning of next.

Name: EVETTE
Subject: MY FAVORITE MEMORY
-- Aug 31, 2002 at 12:40AM
Xanadu in the 80's rocked and I still sit infront of my tv as if I was 8 years old again and still loving this movie. The Music and Dancing...and the romance...still my favorite movie after 22 years. Makes me want to put on my roller skate and dance while the wind is blowing through my hair and singing Xanadu!

Name: Kerry Austin
Subject: the film itself
-- Aug 27, 2002 at 11:15PM
I'll say this, even though Xanadu failed at the box office, at least it has a nice soundtrack
and is watched by people
young and old. I own the movie on DVD and I also own the soundtrack as well and I love them both.

I've always wondered what it was about when I first heard about the movie and when it came on MuchMoreMusic I was thinking to myself:"differe nt"

Name: michelle
Subject: lyrics
-- Aug 14, 2002 at 5:43AM
Pedro, I am a huge fan of both the album and the movie. I just think that when the song "Xanadu" was written, there was more concern shown for whether it rhymed than whether it made any sense.

Doesn't mean I don't like it.

Please read thru the lyrics below and you will see what I mean...

A place where nobody dared to go, the love that we came to know
They call it Xanadu

And now, open your eyes and see, what we have made is real
We are in Xanadu

A million lights are dancing and there you are, a shooting star
An everlasting world and you're here with me, eternally

Chorus:
Xanadu, Xanadu, (now we are here) in Xanadu
Xanadu, Xanadu, (now we are here) in Xanadu

Xanadu, your neon lights will shine for you, Xanadu

The love, the echoes of long ago, you needed the world to know
They are in Xanadu

The dream that came through a million years
That lived on through all the tears, it came to Xanadu

A million lights are dancing and there you are, a shooting star
An everlasting world and you're here with me, eternally

chorus

Now that I'm here, now that you're near in Xanadu
Now that I'm here, now that you're near in Xanadu, Xanadu

Name: valleygrrl
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 14, 2002 at 4:08AM
Xanadu rocks!! I am not ashamed to admit that this is one of my favorite movies of all time!!! If anyone has been to see the new Austin Powers(Goldmember) than I am more than sure, that you picked up on the scene which was a definite take off on said movie.
By the way, does anyone out there know if there are plans to showcase Xanadu Live! The play adaptation anytime soon? Unfortunately, I missed the run at the Gascon theater, right here in LA.

Name: Tee Gee
Subject: Movie
-- Aug 4, 2002 at 2:18AM
I still remember the first time I saw "XANADU" I was really tranced by Olivia Newton -John. I guess I really did think she was a god, and the music was great! Know I would like to see what was cut out of the movie. I think that the movie made me think that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. When I saw the girls come alive from the picture on the wall! Wow I was really in love.

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: RE:lyrics
-- Aug 3, 2002 at 7:51PM
Dare to dream dear Michelle, Jeff Lynne, ELO's leader, is the genious who wrote "...a million lights are dancing and there you are, a shooting star...". But I really don't understand why do you think the lyrics to the song Xanadu is that awful... I think it is pretty nice, at least better than "...rape me my friend, rape me again...".

Name: marcpunk
Subject: re:pan pacific
-- Jul 25, 2002 at 9:11PM
I just got caught up with another six months worth of posts. Todd (from March 9), if u still log on to this, I too am obsessed with the Pan Pacific. I would love to see some of the pictures u have. if u respond to this, I will post my email address

Name: marcpunk
Subject: xanadu sing along
-- Jul 25, 2002 at 9:02PM
OUTFEST in LA just hosted a sing along of Xanadu in the Ford Ampitheatre. It was awesome. Of course, with a packed house of drunk queens (u bring bottles of wine to these outdoor venues), the movie was skewered by the audience at the same time it was being revered. We all danced and sang our hearts out to the songs, while hissing and groaning at Michael Beck's acting. (And who knew there was a gay subtext to his relaionship with sugar daddy Gene Kelly). There is certainly a lot to groan about in this movie that delights us so. But to the catty queen behind me who dogged Livvy's dancing, I say, you try keeping pace with Gene Kelly, while in heels. The fact that people still talk about this movie, and that it can draw a crowd at $12 a pop, is testament to the star who portrayed our muse, Kira, the lovely Livvy.

Name: michelle
Subject: lyrics
-- Jul 24, 2002 at 11:19PM
... just touching on Kal's message. Have a good listen to the lyrics of the title song from the album. May it go down in history as the stupidest song ever written about nothing. Not sure whether ELO or Olivia are to blame for such gems as "a million lights are dancin' and there you are, a shooting star". Having said that, by God I love that song. I love that album. God Bless ELO XXX

Name: Kal Kyller
Subject: lovely Xanadu
-- Jul 21, 2002 at 5:41PM
-- The movie of inspiration contiues to enthral me! I caught it on VH1 the other night and tears filled my eyes.
Please understand, they were tears of joy.
My only problem was that there were too many songs, poor dialogue, awful costumes...what is my point again?
Oh yeah...I just loved it!
Why? I don't know! Why do we love stupid movies?
Grease, for example. Stupid, stupid, stupid! But we love it!
Xanadu doesn't have that appeal, neither this thought, but after hearing the theme song a few times, you can't help but tap your toes and snap your fingers.
In closing, I leave you with this..."Xanaduu u Xanaduuoouu (now we are here) Now that I'm here, Now that your near...in Xanaduuuuuuu!"
So long, guys.

Name: Lorenzo
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 7, 2002 at 7:49PM
Why has Xanadu had such an effect on people? When I was 13 and living in an un forgiving, traditional values town (in Texas!), Xanadu showed me there were other places you could be accepted and different. This year, 23 years after it was made, I'm going to Hollywood, USA and I'm going to visit all the locations the movie was shot. I consider it my personal Pilgrimage to Mecca.

Name: Flloyd
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 2, 2002 at 8:38PM
Hey! Just a few comments. ONJ is always very pleasant to the eyes, so I enjoy watching her on the screen. Next... Xanadu WAS a 70's movie released in 1980. Of course it was "disco"...
uit was the 70's, remember?? What do you expect! And the soundtrack was pretty awesome as far as I am concerned. John Farrar wrote half the tracks, and ELO wrote the other half. The title track "Xanadu", written by Jeff Lynne and performed by ELO (with ONJ on lead vovals)is an awesome song! As is "Magic", by Farrar.
"All Over The World" by ELO was an excellent contribution as well. And it was previously stated in the "review" that the next album ELO did after Xanadu, was Discovery. Wrong! ELO's "Discovery" ; was released in 1979, and "Xanadu" was the follow-up released in 1980. Yeah "Discovery" ; was disco-ish at times, but ELO stayed with the times. "Don't Bring Me Down" and "Shine A Little Love" still rock from that album!! I have the soundtrack from Xanadu on vinyl, as well as on CD. I don't own the movie, but if it does get remastered and re-released, I will most likely buy it. Is it a classic academy award winner?? No. But it is fun entertainment with a great soundtrack!

Name: Greg Hannah
Subject: please remove this comment
-- Jun 23, 2002 at 7:20PM
dear sirs,

please remove that groseque post from
Professor Plonk
about that silly
conversation

Reguards,
Greg Hannah

Name: Cap'nKirk
Subject: Xanadu Spec. Ed.
-- Jun 23, 2002 at 2:54PM
According to DVD.com, Universal is working on a special edition of Xanadu to be released later this year! Hopefully they will include some of the cut footage, and restore Olivia's cut song "You Made Me Love You." BTW, if you ever purchased the 45-single of "Suddenly," ; the flip side contains this cut song. Glad to see so many other fans of this regrettably horribly-written movie. I just WISH they would have cast someone other than Michael Beck. Why the heck didn't they cast Cliff Richards in that role?!? 'nuff said.

Name: lms
Subject: Xanadu sequels
-- Jun 23, 2002 at 1:30AM
Were the vast majority of us susppose to chuckle over your self-gratifying, dare I say, "joke", Robertm?!? Keep your day(or night) job you're no William S. Repsher

Name: Robertm
Subject: Xanadu sequels
-- Jun 22, 2002 at 5:37PM
Did you know that there were two sequels to "Xanadu"? (They sank even faster...) One was "Xana Don't" and the next one was "Xana Didn't but She Do Now"....

Name: michelle
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 22, 2002 at 4:36AM
I just found a comment I wrote on this page 3 years ago - Oct 1999! Did anyone know that Heather Locklear is one of the skating extras in the movie?

Name: Conan the Receptionist
Subject: Render Unto It A Break
-- Jun 16, 2002 at 8:06PM
Well, OK, so "Xanadu" isn't "Gone With The Wind", but, hey, what Hollywood heavyweight was going to sign on to an ONJ vehicle based just on her performance as "Sandy" in "Grease"? N.o.b.o.d.y. What we got here, folks, is a bunch of green-as-grass talent trying their darndest to make an honest-to-God Hollywood mo'in' pictuh. How many weekend camcorder impressarios could have done as well?
And it wasn't a total career killer. Of course, Olivia will always be Olivia, and the follow-up work of at least the producers hasn't been all that shabby.
Nice try, everybody. A flawed jewel perhaps, but a worthy creation notwithstanding. The gratitude and appreciation of some of us go with you.

Name: tiff
Subject: dear satan
-- Jun 15, 2002 at 9:17PM
uh.. no, i am not british,born and raised in America,the "football" comment means you are a typical "GUY"(henc e the skidmarks)just thought i would clarify that for you, did you graduate kindergarten?? anyway i AM totally whacked-out and i do have to admit, you give good comebacks.i think you need a vacation and someone to wipe your butt for ya tho!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: are u mental?
-- Jun 14, 2002 at 9:28AM
Another telltale Brit -- "football" ? Somehow, I get the vibe you're sending in your doggerel from that rainly little island. But, yes, "tiff" you are right -- I am Satan. On rollerskates. With skid marks on my underwear, which have a special hole for my tail. Xanadu does make me feel warm and fuzzy inside -- but a good dose of Pepto-Bismol tends to clear that feeling right out.

The Pirate Movie? Baby, come back from Mars! Or at least petition about 20 random strangers in the immediate vicinity to find out just how whacked-out you are.

Name: tiff
Subject: p.s.
-- Jun 14, 2002 at 1:43AM
i cant believe you bagged on The Pirate Movie! Another positively good feeling movie!! You must be the devil. I bet you like football too, and you probably have skid marks in your underwear..:)haha

Name: tiff
Subject: are u mental?
-- Jun 14, 2002 at 1:27AM
how could anyone say anything bad about a movie this pure!! of course it didnt make sense, that doesnt mean it isnt entertaining! i agree with all of you who see the goodness of Xanadu, who needs awful bad language, (i guess people who are too ignorant to come up with more descriptive words)and violence?Is that what makes someone feel warm and fuzzy inside? i guess if you are Hitler or Sudam.

Name: Alisa
Subject: good grease show
-- Jun 13, 2002 at 8:36PM
Where do you get those pants at the end of the grease show. and I love your singing.

Name: Anton
Subject: oh, good goobily GOO!!!
-- Jun 13, 2002 at 7:54PM
First of all, you're all nuts!!!!!! Second of all, so am I so Yay! This movie is sooooo bad. The review is right on and even a little too nice. This film makes no sense whatsover. Its like some gay guy was on ectasy and wrote a screenplay and sold it some some intoxicated studio heads. It;s just a bunch of pre MTV music videos strung together by scenes that have nothing to do with anything and then Michael Beck to Boot! Good Lord. He is as wooden as my uncle Carl's leg. Sorry Carl. And as for Eddie's comment about Oliva being as good as Barbara or Liza- um EXCUSE ME. Livvy was hot at a time when it didnt take much to be hot. If she showed up today she'd be laughed at(not that she wasn't laughed at when this mocie hit the screens. Tee-hee) Her voice is as thin as paper and she is a cutie patooty but Babs, she aint! C'mom. Are you deaf in one ear and cant hear through the other?!?!?!
Still, all in all ,I must confess a couple years ago my cheesey friends and I did have a Xanadu party where we all got toasted while watching the video and singing along to the songs. We even made catcalls to the screen as if we were at Rocky Horror. DEEElightful.
Horribly delightful.
Ciao y'all

Name: Amber
Subject: Holy Crap!
-- Jun 13, 2002 at 5:22PM
Look at all these comments! I'm having a blast reading them. I was sitting around today flipping channels and lo-and behold, Xanadu was on VH1. Imagine my delight. So I just started looking stuff up online and got to here! Olivia is in her black halter top right now belting out the title song!

I remember going to see this movie for the first time - barely - with my dad and sister. Not in the theatre, but at this place where you could pay to watch videos! This was before VCRs were readily available to everyone, I guess. My dad used to take us there on Sundays and we'd go into this room with benches and watch the latest video releases!

Yes, the movie is god-awful, but it's god-awful in that way that my most cherished movies are. You never forget the way you felt the first time you ever watched it because in your little 8 year old mind, it was the best thing you ever saw! It's one of my guiltiest pleasures and I love it!

Name: Panda
Subject: Web link
-- Jun 11, 2002 at 6:05PM
Anyone interested in Xanadu trivia or dvd's and the like - try going to
http://www.fast- rewind.com/index.htm l

Name: Panda
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 11, 2002 at 5:48PM
Just popped back in to see the updates. (waves hello at Mr. Repsher) Seems more people have added their 2 cents in acknowledging this movie as a guilty pleasure. I still stand behind my idea of a remake - whadda ya think? J.Lo and P. Diddy as Sonny and Kira? Or maybe Freddie Prinz Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar who follow their dream of starting up a StarBucks franchise of their own? Instead of roller skates, they could all be on razor-blade scooters!! The theme could be a remake by Kelly Osbourne! YEAH!!!

Name: chrystal kakekagumick
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 11, 2002 at 1:34PM
Well when the movie first came out I must of been three, I actually bought the movie for my son because he enjoys musicals and sure some people may think it wa a bad movie but I liked it. Too bad it so-called careers. I said my peace.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Jun 3, 2002 at 8:18AM
Yes, David, you are the expert who knows everything about music and the flameholder for all that is right in America. I'm certain that if the terrorists who had ploughed those planes into the Pentagon and the WTCs were fans of Xanadu, none of this would have occurred.

God bless you, David, for you humble, giving and ultimately superior world view, based on your love of the movie Xanadu. And thank you for pointing out it must be harder to write a movie like Bambi (G) than Citizen Kane (PG) -- not many people know this. But you do, and that's all that matters.

Name: David
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 3, 2002 at 12:39AM
Well, we just bought the DVD. Music is great even today. I've sung solos in The Messiah, play piano and organ for my church, I have belonged to 2 city and 1 church choir for over twenty years. I think I know a litlle about music. Two daughters 19, and 18 who didn't want us to buy it said that "Magic" still plays on the radio. To them that's an old song. From a special effects standpoint: Sure in the early stages, but so was PhotoShop & Illustrator way back in versions 1.0. Others kind of followed this spec. effects lead and made it better.
Olivia Newton John, Gene Kelly, the blending of the Greek mythology (for those who actually listened in school), good innocent fun were all A+.
William Repsher's review and view represents all that has gone bad in the USA.
And for Pedro Argenti- right on man !y que siempre viva la raza!
Weak story? Skin does not a flick make. It is much harder to make a G or PG than an R or NR 17. The writers actually have to think.

Name: Desiree
Subject: Well, I liked the music
-- May 27, 2002 at 4:14AM
Truth be told, I couldn't follow the plot to save my life but I enjoyed the music so much that I was able to forgive the lack of a strong storyline. However, I must say I'm much happier just listening to the soundtrack and not trying to figure out what the movie is all about.

Name: Sophy
Subject: One of my all time favorites...
-- May 23, 2002 at 1:37AM
Sure, the movie is cheasy and the plot is barely existent, but does that necessarily make it a bad movie? I love this movie for the fun music, good energy, and the awesome roller skating! This movie had me skating circles in my parents' kitchen for years!
For sure, my favorite favorite scene is the one with the rock band and the big band with the 3 singers morphing together in the pre-nightclub.
Well, the ending scene is pretty awesome too, with all the roller skating and costume changes...
(clap clap) HO!

Name: Aaron
Subject: Xanadu is why I bought Skechers skates!
-- May 22, 2002 at 4:09PM
I'm glad to see I'm not the only Xanadu lover here! I remember seeing this movie with my cousins over and over again. It was so over-the-top that it was wonderful...many a-times did I wish I could revamp the movie and re-release it. I still think a Xanadu club is in order. Xanadu is the reason I bought Skechers 4-Wheelers! Although I did opt to go leg-warmerless! Xanadu fans unite!

Name: EDDIE
Subject: XANADU
-- May 22, 2002 at 3:18PM
Hey XANADU was 100times better than Grease 2! Why?

Olivia Newton-John, I know the Movie was not Grease, But, if it were Directed better, It had the Elements of a fun movie. The Music was great, I was an ELO Fan and Olivia is the Patsy Cline of the 70's, with that Special voice that Trancended Country and Pop!
Next, Watching Gene Kelly and Olivia was "MAGIC" for me! If you watched Olivia in "Its my Party", you can see her Acting is Fine.
She was great in Grease, Olivia has the ability to be a Barbara Streisand, a Liza Minelli. She needs someone to help her run lines and Her Talent given ability to be bitchy enough on the set to get things done her way. I'd love and be honored to work with her anytime.
But, Olivia is a sweetheart and listens to Others, SHE HAS A RAW NATURAL TALENT! I wish she could have more opportunities to use it and Act.
Hey, Olivia, I am a 40 year old Actor/Director who would love to be in a movie with you someday! Write me at TamEdward@webtv.net; anytime.
"Let Me Be There",
a friend,
Eddy

Name: Orlando
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 21, 2002 at 10:28AM
I guess Im a little biased about this movie because I love Olivia and anything she's ever done. I remember being a kid and seeing it and having really good feelings about it. As an adult, I bought my VHS copy and still sometimes find myself wanting to watch it. I wonder now if it were to come out, with all the special effects and things that we have would it be more successful? I suppose Im just looking for any excuse to see Olivia back on the big screen, even if its not in a "blockbuster&qu ot;.

Name: Heather
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 17, 2002 at 10:55PM
Man - this whole thing has got me on some stupid Xanadu rampage. There is a ton of stuff on EBAY for all of the previous writers who are looking for DVD's and the like. Now the question is...do I really need and or want the Xanadu comic book or a VHS Copy? Any thoughts?

Name: Ocean
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 16, 2002 at 11:37PM
I would love to see a revise of this movie as a special edition DVD. I too as a youngster fell in love with everything in this movie. I thought Gene Kelly was great and realy made the movie sparkle with Olivia.
Sure, not all the acting was great and some of the script and direction was off, but you cant deny ELO for the powerhouse music of 70's new age type pop, it was so diferent and fresh. This film needs a comeback, even with the silly ending!

Name: Heather
Subject: The Fall
-- May 16, 2002 at 6:31PM
I also forgot to say that my favorite part of the movie when I was so young was when that song "The Fall" is playing and Sonny decides to skate through the mural! When he enters into that black hallway, I remember being so scared about what was going to happen to him. BTW, does anybody know who played Kira's parents?

Name: Heather
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 16, 2002 at 5:32PM
Xanadu was the first movie I watched when our family aquired cable TV and HBO. I was like 7 years old and became an addict of the movie and played the 33 over and over. Obviously, I had no idea that ELO was so different - I just knew their sound on Xanadu. All of my Barbies were named Kira and were rollerskaters. I too re-visited the movie later and at age 27, I must say too that it is bad, bad, bad, but at 7 - it was magical and a great introduction to rollerskating romance.

Name: cricket32
Subject: xanadu
-- May 12, 2002 at 10:56PM
Xanadu was a fun movie! Every time I watch the video I smile. It was a movie about believing in your dreams. It was simple and sweet. It was inspiring. ELO & Jeff Lynne were fantastic. How could anyone watch this movie and not be touched in some way.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu marketing ploy
-- May 9, 2002 at 9:08AM
A celebrity checks in! The string bass player from the swing band number! Who went on to play string bass in the nightclub scenes in 48 Hours and Interview with a Vampire!

The Xanadu line of clothing? I don't know ... didn't ABBA already have that market cornered?

Name: eric sluyter
Subject: xanadu marketing ploy
-- May 9, 2002 at 1:44AM
The author of the article missed the boat when he wrote, "The whole thing was an excuse to have Gene Kelly dance around for the last time and pump out a few hits for Olivia Newton-John." What is was, in fact, was a failed (here, too) scheme to push the Xanadu line of clothing in the boutiques.

But, wadda I know? I was just the string bass player of the '40s swing band in the number with the Tubes ---the orange jumpsuit-clad 70s band.

I never worked again ;-)

Name: j fischer
Subject: xan a du or don't
-- May 1, 2002 at 9:39PM
i am amazed to see that this movie has such a strong following. it's nice to stumble upon a common thread. it's also intersting to read the opinions good or bad.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- May 1, 2002 at 11:35AM
Well, I was 26 when I saw it, and now I'm 6!

"Shocked&qu ot;? Come on, Robin. Do a survey of random people next time you're in a movie theater about Xanadu to see just how "shocking" this review is.

Name: Robin
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 1, 2002 at 11:30AM
I am shocked at the way you pu t down this movie, it was the most enchanting, riveting film I have ever seen. I saw it when I was 6, I am 26 and I still love it!

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 18, 2002 at 11:58AM
Reality is the way it is because there are people thinking about kill, gore, blood, blow up scenes, nudity and rough sex. Xanadu is adorable and fantastic, innocent and romantic, but lots of people are unfortunately more interested in NC-17 SEX VIOLENCE NUDITY stuff...

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Apr 18, 2002 at 7:06AM
Sorry, Pedro, but nothing's going to change on this website to suit your tastes. No disrespect at all meant to Gene Kelly, and I'm reasonably sure if he were around, he'd have a good laugh over the tombstone image. Reasons why the whole world is not a big Xanadu? I think the main one is called reality!

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 17, 2002 at 3:32PM
Well, again about Xanadu, I really like it, I agree that there are stupid stuff but everything has an opposite side, and those ones who hate it just see the wrong things about it, everyone has to admit that the title song is WONDERFUL, because if it wasn't, it wouldn't sell how it sold and wouldn't have been released in many other languages: Ireen Sheer (German), FlamingoKvintetten (Sweden), Juanita (Brasil), Menudo (Porto Rico) and others... One more thing I'd like to mention is that its special effects are pretty cool for their age and that the locations were very well chosen.I really think that the image of the obviously fake tombstone of Gene Kelly should be deleted, not because Xanadu, but in respect to his death. Because of xenophobic heartless brainless senseless people that the whole world is not a big XANADU.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Apr 17, 2002 at 7:41AM
A few responses to the recent flurry of posts. Cricket32, ELO were stars long before Xanadu. I'd say the single "Telephone Line" put them there in the summer of 76, along with the album A New World Record. Pedro: I "probably like to see blood and suffer(ing) in the silver screen"? Wrong thing to say to a New Yorker whose seen blood and suffering recently on the streets where I live. Frankly, I'm no great fan of film violence and gave no such indication in this article. But compared to real-life violence, I don't have much of a problem with it. Mark: oh, you lost man, don't you see the error of your ways, and that you need to somehow find your heart again? Go rent Roller Boogie.

Name: cricket32
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 17, 2002 at 12:25AM
Xanadu was the last of the really good fantasy movies. Anyone who still believes in love and a higher power will still get a thrill from this movie. xanadu proves that magic and intuition still exist. And as far as ELO goes they achieved stardom through this movie. listen to "I'm Alive" ELO at there best. this movie is still a fantastic cosmic journey.

Name: Pedro Argenti
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 16, 2002 at 8:55PM
Xanadu is surely the best musical fantasy of its time. What would you say about the stupid Footloose? Or even about the cheesy Flashdance? Come on... Xanadu is great, at least it has wonderful songs, I agree that the acting was poor and the script is two times more poor, but Olivia was pretty cool, Michael was like a fool (he was in love! he was supposed to be like a fool!) and Gene Kelly kicked all the stupid clumsy "Can't Stop The Footloose" dancers' asses with his dazzling performance. And if you didn't like it Mr. William I respect, but you should respect who liked it and avoid being rough with people who simple love Xanadu like me. Xanadu is a vision of the perfect world where unfortunately nobody dared to go thanks to people like William that probably like to see blood and suffer in the silver screen!

Name: Mark
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 16, 2002 at 1:17PM
Sad to say but Xanadu sort of influenced my adolescent years. I guess that's why I grew up to be a weenie adult. I have read every post on here and, Sir William, you are a smartass. I like your style!

Name: Walter B
Subject: Xanadu again
-- Apr 10, 2002 at 7:47PM
---I wrote a kind of long entry in july of '01, and I have not been back since. I actually have not had the chance to watch Xanadu since about that time either, but I still enjoy the idea of the film. Its a bit of an inside joke between my family and me, because we always used to watch it when it was on HBO back in the 80's.
--Xanadu really brings back very fond memories of a more fun and simple time that has past.
``When the two-thousands approached I knew we were going to see Kira-type dresses and such, and its happened! I really thought ONJ looked sexy in her drapy-rag dresses, the off the shoulder ones with cuts up the legs. EXAMPLE- just look at that Cameron Diaz pink dress thing in the new "Sweetest Thing" movie. In the trailers Ive seen on TV she is dressed like a new Kira- And I like it.
-- A fashionable clothes store at which I used to work is now selling leg-warmers-- can You believe it?
``Anyway, Xanadu makes me want to go rollerskating with a beautiful girl and get all romantic.
-Thats another point! Quad roller skates are back in! I love it!

Once again Id enjoy reading responses.

Thank You
Walter B

Name: Bontar
Subject: Xanadu Trip
-- Apr 10, 2002 at 1:34AM
Just today i visted a food store near my house,l while wandering around it i came across a bin with Xanadu in it. Now i've been sorta-but not really looking for this movie for well over a decade and bought it(at less than $5 bucks, why not). well i agree with your article in several points, i must say that evven tho yes it is a generaly bad movie, its a no brainer movie, one you sit back, enjoy, and fall back into the days of yor .. when one was younge and fairly carefree. one writer said OLJ was a timeless beauty with a great voice, I still agree. I'm not sure how old she is now but seh still look almost the same at the Olymic games as she did in Xanadu(some ppl never seem to age). well thats is, thanks for letting me put in a say

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: W.S.Repsher...Re: Conundrum
-- Apr 9, 2002 at 10:50PM
Scroll down to the very bottom of these responses -- all the way to the beginning. It's a long ride. When you get there, please note the abusive, anonymous people posting -- taking potshots that have nothing to do with anything but personal abuse. Which is fine, if that's how they want it, but they're getting some to take back with them.

Need examples -- a person named Connie stating "you suck." A guy named Eric calling me "a tool." Someone named Stream said "FUCK YOU YOU WOULD'NT KNOW A GOOD MOVIE IF IT KICKED YOU IN THE ASS."

Do you consider this abuse? Or am I just being paranoid? And that's just some of the greatest hits -- admittedly, most comments don't go there, but when/if they do, I respond accordingly.

Name: Egraene
Subject: W.S.Repsher...Re: Conundrum
-- Apr 9, 2002 at 10:04PM

Xanadu Revisited by William S. Repsher

Xanadu Revisited
by William S. Repsher