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.

MOST RECENT YAK ABOUT THIS ARTICLE:

Subj: ELO
I love Olivia Newtown John's dress in the movie and would like to know where I could buy it . As far as the movie it was great. ELO was at their best. At the time they were my favorite band . Great movie and soundtrack.
-- Jan
Jun 22, 2009 at 12:28PM
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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: Jan
Subject: ELO
-- Jun 22, 2009 at 12:28PM
I love Olivia Newtown John's dress in the movie and would like to know where I could buy it . As far as the movie it was great. ELO was at their best. At the time they were my favorite band . Great movie and soundtrack.

Name: Xanaduholic
Subject: Xanadu the 2nd greatest musical of all times!
-- Jun 13, 2009 at 12:30AM
Grease is number one my favorite, Xanadu, number 2.. its a great movie and if u dont like it, your loss! I NEVER get tired of watching these 2 movie..i love any movie with ONJ in it..and yet im a 12 year old!

Name: scott
Subject: xanadu painting
-- Mar 27, 2009 at 2:56AM
hi i really want the painting from xanadu anybody know where i can get it email me at theshape78@sbcglobal .net thanks

Name: Kathryn
Subject: Xanadu "I rate this movie a 10"
-- Feb 17, 2009 at 4:49PM
This movie is a good clean movie that has a great soundtrack.ELO (Electric Light Orchestra)they picked a good band for the sound track of this movie.It will be a one of those I can watch over&over,and never get tired of watching.

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Dec 21, 2008 at 12:50PM
i would love to know if u could that filim free and download it i rerally love that filim

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
Who did you feel abused, and/or attacked you?

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: The Xanadu Conundrum
-- Apr 7, 2002 at 9:00AM
I have only one rule of thumb in responding to readers: you can say anything you want about this article, positive or negative, but when/if you become personally abusive in that annoyingly anonymous internet way towards me, then I'm going to get strange on you. As you can see, this article has generated a massive response over the years for reasons I don't quite understand, but I've learned that people simply having their say on it in a sane, rational, nonabusive way, whether I agree or not, is a win-win situation for everyone. Win-lose is someone deciding to get over on me in an abusive manner, and I'll make damn sure I'm in on that first part of the equation.

Name: morie
Subject: The Xanadu Conundrum
-- Apr 7, 2002 at 6:00AM
What can I say but, so well-said Egraene! William S. Repsher couldn't possibly find something to criticize in your comments, but then again, if he does, it's because Xanadu ignites intense passion. He may in fact want to slaughter me because of MY above comment.

Name: Egraene
Subject: The Xanadu Conundrum
-- Apr 6, 2002 at 6:11PM
I read all these reveiws and I note one obvious thing... the intense feelings this simple movie evokes from people, you either love it or hate it.

I'm a mother of 2 young girls and I have seen MTV where all our girl's "role models" dress like prostitutes and sing about being "a SLAVE for you" .I personally don't want mine to grow up to be Table Dancers.

My point being is, this movie wouldn't win any awards for best picture, actor, screenplay, or the such, but it offers some simple, pure, and innocent fun.

I enjoy it for it's "blast from the past" quality, my husband shudders at it, my girls pretend to be Kira and sing to the music.

If you love it, you have good reason to and have plenty of company... if you hate it, well it's your God given right to. Just remember to feel hate is to feel passionate about it.

Aparently this movie achieved what every film tries to achieve... a profound effect on you.

Name: Michael a. Bursztin
Subject: Olivia's "Xanadu"
-- Mar 27, 2002 at 4:21AM
Although the script left a bit to be desired, the music, costumes, dance numbers and overall "look" of the film was quite good for 1980. Besides the multi=platinum soundtrack, five hit songs were released and the film became a huge video success later on. With the recent "Xanadu Live!" stage production a major success in Los Angeles, a cult following has gained momentum. Olivia, still one of the world's finest pipes as seen in her recent Olympic Opening Ceremony performance is rumoured to be recording a dance album for release in later 2002. I would not be surprised if she sails back to the top of the charts again. A timeless beauty, a songbird of a voice and endless charity work keep her in the public eye and her previous 15 top ten hits are classic '70's and '80's pop. "Xanadu" was a major step in achieving "legend" stardom and yes, the film has some serious weak moments but somehow Olivia and Gene Kelly make it all worthwhile.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Lighten Up!!!!
-- Mar 21, 2002 at 4:32PM
Buddy, Full Metal Jacket brings back memories of a time more relaxed than now!

Name: Jeff
Subject: Lighten Up!!!!
-- Mar 21, 2002 at 4:28PM
I first saw the movie in my formative years (8th grade to be exact) and love Olivia, loved the music and loved the effects. I bought the DVD about 4 months ago and have watched it at least a dozen times since and still love Olivia, love the music and love the effects. YES, it's a cheesy flic and the lines are bad and even badly delivered, BUT I still find it a fun diverstion and something that brings me back to my youth with a smile. Would I honestly recommend the film to anyone? Only if it brings back good memories of a time more relaxed than now.

Name: Greg
Subject: Just for the record
-- Mar 17, 2002 at 10:59PM
Michael Beck (Sonny Malone) about 4 years ago I am not sure ended up with a role on a sci fi show called Babylon 5. At least he is still trying. I still think Olivia is hot! Xanadu was an interesting twist to Greek mythology and the story of the Muses.

Name: Todd
Subject: Pan-Pacific
-- Mar 9, 2002 at 3:29AM
If anyone is still interested, I've got a huge collection of Pan-Pacific pictures and memorabilia that I can share over the net! I'm huge fan of the building as well as Xanadu and ONJ. Lemme know.

Name: stanley
Subject: shocked
-- Mar 6, 2002 at 8:30PM
I visited this list on november 9th 2000 and i cannot believe it is still going strong. When will the DVD version come out in the UK?

Name: Lisa
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 4, 2002 at 2:47AM
I stumbled across this site and had to add that I enjoy the film (not including most of the script, though) as an entertaining long music video(why should I care if anyone is dumb enough to sum me up as being uncool or sickenly wholesome). I became a fan again of ONJ after seeing Grease again in '98, so when I knew that Xanadu was going to be shown on T.V., I wanted to watch it. I realized that I'd forgotten a large part, well almost all of the film, really. Maybe because I saw it only one and a half times when I was a kid. O.K., no rude comments from the Xanadon't see it gallery! Before '98 I thought I was free of being an ONJ fan and had cruel comments about her. I felt that I was too devoted a fan in the '80's so I was glad to not care at all about her anymore, I now know will be her fan forever.

Name: Geoff Wright
Subject: mural
-- Feb 27, 2002 at 12:27AM
I also have been searcing for a good quality picture of that mural for sometime now but cannot find it anywhere. Does this thing still exist?

Name: ejonesradio
Subject: Xanadu - DVD
-- Feb 19, 2002 at 11:16PM
Hey, Xanadu fans, If you really want apreciate the movie for what it truly was, get the widescreen DVD!!!!
I'll admit to it being cheesy and all, but as an artist myself (like "Sonny Malone") "Kira" inspired me to pursue my own dream of being a true artist as well. I hoe she finds you too...
On a side-note, that abandoned hall used in the film for "Club Xanadu" burned to the ground not too long ago.

Name: Serena
Subject: Xanadu mural
-- Feb 14, 2002 at 11:16PM
Also looking for images of the mural and would like to know whether it still exists.

Name: Mark
Subject: movie owner
-- Feb 8, 2002 at 5:01AM
It was weird at the time it came out,but I would have watched anything Livvy was in cause I was smitten for her at 18 years old at the time.

Name: Marg
Subject: Xanadu
-- Feb 7, 2002 at 10:02AM
Although, I can't say that Xanadu was ever my favorite movie. I feel that I have seen worse. Further more, I thought that just looking at Michael Beck was worth watching the movie! I thought that he was great on the movie "Warriors" , and later on the movie "The Triumphs of a Man Called Horse". As for Olivia Newton John, what can anyone say about such a beautiful great singer in her time. Further more, you have to give this movie some credit. We are back talking about it so many years later!!!

Name: I Paralyze
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 26, 2002 at 9:17AM
Anybody know the name of the blonde dancer hanging upside-down from the clothes rack in the "All Over the World" sequence? Along with Olivia she's gotta be the hottest woman in the movie.

Name: jen
Subject: xanadu
-- Jan 24, 2002 at 11:33AM
I agree with michelle-i loved olivia's voice and still do! This was one of my fave movies, although I too was 7 the first time I saw it!! I also think there was no story line but the music was great and anything Olivia did I watched or listened too! To this day, I own all her movies and tapes. I guess you can say I am a "hopelessly devoted!!" fan!!!! Thanks!!

Name: Michelle
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 19, 2002 at 4:05PM
I remember watching Xanadu for the 1st time when I was like 6 or 7 yrs. old. I loved Olivia Newton-John's voice. Yeah, looking at it now, the movie isn't the greatest...but it will always be one of my favorites from my childhood past!!! :) LOL

Name: Deanna
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 17, 2002 at 11:40AM
Xanadu will always hold a special place in my heart. I rollerskated to the soundtrack endlessly, and am listening to it right now. I know, as well as anyone else, that it's cheesy...but the music is great, and I will never let go of this one!

Name: Siobhan
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 15, 2002 at 2:53PM
22 years on I still love this movie. It may be cheesy, but in these days it is good to look at something which can bring light entertainment and not too much thinking. Here's to another 22 years.

Name: Teresa
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 12, 2002 at 5:35AM
I love this movie. I am watching it now. I have been watching it since I was little. And sure, it's corny... but it just adds to the appeal. I was pleased when the soundtrack was re-released... so I grabbed a copy. I'm into a lot of these happy sort of films... they're just a bit of fun... like Grease,Flashdance... lol. Forgive me - but I can't help it! It's all about dreams & love. You can't knock that! That's what life is all about after all

Name: Kris
Subject: Xanadu Mural
-- Jan 8, 2002 at 9:41PM
looking for clear images of the painted mural of the nine muses, can anyone help me?!

Name: Alison Rain
Subject: Oops! I was wrong...
-- Jan 8, 2002 at 10:54AM
Mr. Gatch was the "director of executive personnel placement" for the World Wide Wicket Corporation.
-from How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying"

Name: Geoff Wright
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 6, 2002 at 4:51PM
I'm not gonna be one of those who bash someone for not liking something I like, so all who cringe at that can keep reading:)
I remember seeing this movie for the first time and falling head over heels in love with Olivia Newton John. Granted it is a cheesy movie but how many beloved movies aren't? Someone made the point of John Hughes movies. What about all the Airplane movies and spoofs of that genre? I loved this movie, own my own copy, and proudly watch it. It reminds me of a more innocent time of my life when I had few cares except when I was supposed to be home for dinner.
The plot of this movie was not about Kira and Sonny trying to find out how to make her human. It was also not about Sonny becoming an artist. He says specifically in the movie he just wants to accomplish something special. Xanadu was it for both himself and Danny, plus Sonny did get to use his aristry in the design of the place. Kira was there to make their dreams come true. Sonny's was to be a part of something that mattered and Sonny's was to have a club again. Naming the club Xanadu was not something pulled out of the air. The name come from a poem by Coleridge (sp?). According to the poem Xanadu was a pleasure paradise (in the poem they call it a pleasure dome) that Kubla Khan had built. This was why they named it that. They were trying to make it sound exotic and a pleasure palace (no dirty jokes here please:)
Now as far as this movie being the ruin of Michael Beck's career I disagree highly. There is a little known movie that came out called Mega Force. If anything, THAT movie destroyed his career. Now that would be a movie to watch to see just how very, very bad a movie can be.
Xanadu was not a movie that was gonna win any awards or anything, but it was a fun movie. Look at it as anything serious and yes you will be disappointed. Just drop some inhibitions and have fun with the movie.

Name: alison rain
Subject: m.w.gatch
-- Jan 4, 2002 at 11:55AM
Wasn't Mr. Gatch the name of the director of personnel for the World Wide Wicket Corporation?
hee-hee!:D

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu
-- Dec 27, 2001 at 9:22AM
... the sound of m.w.gatch rollerskating into a brick wall mural that doesn't open up into a magic fantasy world.

Name: m.w.gatch
Subject: xanadu
-- Dec 26, 2001 at 11:07PM
i saw this movie when it came out,i liked it then ,and now its still ok.if you dont like it you are probably a flatuating (FARTING) butthead . i am right aren't i ? YOU JERK! in response to w.s.repsher's comments.

Name: Dominique
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 22, 2001 at 9:13PM
Xanadu is about magic and dreams coming true. It is also about revisiting dreams (the non-nocturnal type), as Gene Kelly did during the movie. There is also a message about the ability of love to cross the boundaries of time and space. Xanadu is not about the 70's. It's meerly a movie that was filmed and released in that decade.

Yes, the movie is cinematically (pretend this is a word for the sake of my arguement) bad. Yet I found the John Hughes films of the 80's equally as corny. Same with Bill and Ted...and Wayne's World...and the teen horror films of the 90's.

View Xanadu for the message it sends. And if you don't get it, try removing yourself from the judgemental box you've placed yourself upon.

Name: sasha
Subject: aside from a few spelling mistakes...
-- Dec 6, 2001 at 5:07PM
Well I suppose you can think whatever you want, you're the older one in this situation. However excuse my hyperbole, not quite since I was born. A Clockwork Orange is a truely brilliant, intense film, one I also love, but it isn't record of my childhood. I prefer to think on my own and choose my own favorite movies, which happen to be quite a few. But hey, I've got my whole life ahead of me to find something wonderful.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: perhaps the clesest thing to my heart
-- Dec 6, 2001 at 9:36AM
"Shame on you for condeming this film, perhaps it doesn't really haunt you, but it reminds you of the idealism that this world has shattered and thrown aside."

Replace "idealism" with "delusional 70s mediocraty" and you hit the nail right on the head, Sasha, and I'm glad that you suspect it's been "shattered and thrown aside," but if you poke around enough in our current culture, you will find the same sentiments. Been watching Xanadu since you were born -- I'm picturing that forced movie-watching scene from Clockwork Orange -- a film I highly recommend you rent one of these days.

Name: Sasha
Subject: perhaps the clesest thing to my heart
-- Dec 5, 2001 at 9:55PM
I've been watching Xanadu since I was born, and even then the movie was three years old. I have always, always loved this movie. Sure it is the best example of American cinema, but it certainly appeals to a particular group of people. I don't know how many of you danced around and sang along when you were five, but I did and I still do. Luckily I never got to experience the seventies and I was barely conscious in the eighties, but my appreciation comes not from a need or desire to relive those times, rather I am drawn to this movie because it is a part of me. Xanadu represents dreams coming true, love undying, and really great music. Shame on you for condeming this film, perhaps it doesn't really haunt you, but it reminds you of the idealism that this world has shattered and thrown aside.

Name: Beez
Subject: Xanadu Miscellany
-- Dec 5, 2001 at 4:12PM
I found this thread today after a weekend of renting Xanadu (again) and watching it four times (again). Could've bought it on DVD two or three times by now.

My enjoyment of the movie comes not from the "remember when times were like when I was ten" factor but just from the movie's invitation to escape inside it, remember what it was like to fall in love with someone new, follow your dreams, and have all of that surrounded by music and magic and mystery. "Have to believe we are magic" I think sums up the spirit of the movie better than anything else.

The bad parts of the movie--and there are many more of them on the technical side than the performance side--also contribute to its overall charm. My favorite scene is the one where Sonny goes to work on the album cover at night, and Kira sneaks up on him. When the camera's POV is on Sonny's right, he's wearing a gray smock and holding only paintbrushes. When the camera's POV switches to Sonny's left, he's wearing a blue smock and holding a paint pallette and the album cover. Bad, bad editing--but it makes me laugh every time, in a good way.

Back at the beginning of this thread there was a brief discussion of Michael Beck's career as compared to Michael Pare's--I'm surprised that no one mentioned the TV series that they did TOGETHER--remember? It was called Houston Knights--Beck played a Houston cop, Pare was the fish-out-of-water New York City cop who got sent down to Houston to be Beck's partner. It was only on for one season, maybe less, but of course I watched religiously, being the Michael Beck fan that I am. Julie, if you want to see what he looks like now, go to the books-on-tape section of the bookstore and look for the John Grisham titles--he's read a few of those, and his photo turns up on a few of them.

Anyway, I think a remake, rather than a sequel, could work pretty well in the right hands (and without roller skates). Somebody should talk to Baz Luhrmann.

Name: Moisty
Subject: a steaming turd called XANADU
-- Dec 5, 2001 at 1:38PM
I just watched XANADU for the first time in my life ---- and what a honking piece of trash it was ! ! ! Jeez, I could have chewed up a reel of film shat out a better picture than XANADU!!!

Give me a break !!!

Name: Juan Carlos
Subject: Xanadu en Castellano
-- Nov 27, 2001 at 7:55PM
Agradecer�a si alguien me informa de como poder conseguir Xanadu en Castellano o subtitulada.
Gracias!!.

Name: Megan
Subject: Xanadu~ the best movie in the world!
-- Nov 26, 2001 at 4:37PM
I am 26 years old and remember vividly going to see this movie in the theater! My first crush was Gene Kelly so I just had to see this movie. I now own it and the soundtrack on tape and cd so that I will NEVER be without it! It is a pre-requisit for any potential boyfriend to sit down with me and watch this movie. I'm not saying that they have to like it....they just have to watch it. I admit that I am made fun of quite a bit because of my love for this movie. It is just one of those movies that you walk away from with a lighter step, a goofy grin on your face, and the feeling that everything is right with the world! The soundtrack is one that you can listen to in any mood. It has something for the depressed, those of us who work out (not me), and you can listen to it when you are cleaning house. You get to singing those songs by ELO and Olivia and you never realize how much you get done until you are finished!! I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!!
Meg in 'Bama =}

Name: julie
Subject: color photos?
-- Nov 25, 2001 at 7:07PM
of michael beck now
and then please.
tell me which sites
to go to for the best
photos please..
right away please.
soon a.s.a.p..
please..
i like michel so much.
man i really do..
julie rawls
usa
god bless america...

Name: julie
Subject: a second movie?
-- Nov 25, 2001 at 7:05PM
will there be a second
xanadu/
with michael and ollvia.?
et all.?
i like to see that right
away man. please.
write me any one with
info on michael beck.
a biography please.
about his life.
like the bee gees book.
about their life.
et all.
julie rawls
usa

Name: julie rawls
Subject: where's michael now?
-- Nov 25, 2001 at 7:02PM
where is michael beck
now, was he is fly all
the way home movie?
heh? i miss michael
beck- re sonny malone.
i love him so much.
cutie patootie.
please contact about his
wear abouts.
and autographed photos.
if out there.
and movie photos as
well please.
of kira and him togther.
please.
julie rawls usa

Name: Carlos
Subject: XANADU!!
-- Nov 20, 2001 at 3:52PM
I finally reached a page where all comments regarding the BEST movie I've ever seen are welcomed.
I live in the Los Angeles area. I'm only 24 y/o and i feel like i totally missed the 80's although i lived thru it but not as i know i should have. So now I'm practically living thru the eighties in the millenium.
Anyhow, it has been quite some years now that friends talk about Xanadu and Olivia Newton-John...LOVE HER!! and I've always wanted to know what the whole fasination of the movie was. Until just recently I made myself buy the movie. Ifigured buying it better than renting it because i knew i was going to love it....sure enough after watching it, I knew i was right and understood what my friends were talking about. Man! my spirit went back to when it first debut. I must say that Gene Kelly sure made me smile when he and Olivia danced together, admiring his career as when he was younger and all his musicals that made him what he is.
Just to add one more thing, i did noticed that in the scene where both Sonny and Danny were deciding what to name their new club, Kira started to recite one of the stanzas from a poem that i still do remeber it by heart back in my honors english class in high school. "In Xanadu did Khubla Khan, a stately pleasure dome decree, where Alph the sacred river ran to caverns measureless to man, down to a sunless sea." It all then, made sense to me.
Finally, I have to agree with everyone who rated this film one of the best movies ever!! Thank you for letting me share my comments, opinions, thoughts, etc. and for making Xanadu live in our hearts and souls again.

Name: Pascual
Subject: Yo Quiero Xanadu
-- Nov 20, 2001 at 9:53AM
A mi tambien me gustaria tener la peli en Castellano. Si alguien me la facilita se lo agradeceria de alguna forma.
pascual@combios. es

Name: simonie
Subject: Re: Xanadu Live!
-- Nov 15, 2001 at 2:10PM
Briony - Have you checked out my website for XL! ? The show is over, but they're working every option possible for it to continue somewhere else. I'm adding a TON of stuff to the website starting today and will continue updates as they come in.

Name: briony
Subject: xanadu live!
-- Nov 15, 2001 at 10:09AM
i am another who hopes for xanadu to catch on, i would love the oppertunity to see it but unfortunately i live in england and cannot get to america very easily.

isnt it satistfing to sing along?

Name: Jodi
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 12, 2001 at 11:11PM
Xanadu is one of the best movies and Soundtracks of all time! I still revisit both quite often, as I own both the soundtrack and the movie. While I do agree that the movie looks quite different from when we were 10-12 and now when we are, uh, bordering a quarter-life crisis-which is why we are all going back to "the good ol days of roller skates and leg warmers"-I am saddened to read what bad judgement and what poor taste is out there for those who reject such a wonderful film. I remember wanting to be Olivia Newton John and doing, what then, would be a pre-historic rendition of Karaoke to the music.. and if I remember correctly, wasn't Olivia (Kyra) one of the first films to introduce the hot fashion of legwarmers to us easily influenced youngsters-moreso than watching the Karate Kid and wanting to sign up for Karate. Not knowing what the movie "truly" meant when I watched it back in the day, I was fortunate enough, after having obtained and English degree and studying Coleridge (Kubla Kahn) and mythology, to purchase the movie and watch it with new eyes. I finally "got" the meaning of Xanadu and the 7 Sisters (remember the painted album cover) I was seeing. It was like watching the movie for the first time all over again. And let's admit it, singing along with EVERY song while the movie played, so much so that I could barely hear the t.v. Anyway, the movie had a much deeper meaning than dreams of a cheesy roller rink -it was the application of mythology and true poetry that proved to lift us above an ending era (the 70's) and ready us for the 80's movement of Rock and Roll,leg warmers and santin jackets we will be sure to share with our future,if not already existent, children. For the true fans, we will always be "suspended in time."

...In Xanadu did Kubla Kahn a stately pleasure dome decree..where Alph the sacred river ran to caverns measureless to man...down to a sunless sea.

I'm glad to read there are those that share my enthusiasm.

Name: Ariana
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 4, 2001 at 1:02PM
I love it! You are the best actress!

Name: Rosie
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 3, 2001 at 3:30AM
Xanadu rocks!
Just enjoy it for what it is...heaps of fun with rollerdancing & Gene Kelly - what more could you want?!

Name: Simonie
Subject: Re: Xanadu Live!
-- Nov 1, 2001 at 3:07PM
Mr. Repsher, I completely understand. I was just hoping that you or someone you know might be in the LA area while it's running and could check it out. I wish everyone could experience it! And yes, we're all hoping it "catches on" and either goes to Broadway or tours...

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu Live!
-- Nov 1, 2001 at 2:17PM
Simonie, I'd love to see this, but you'll have to forgive me for developing this sudden aversion to boarding flights in New York with full tanks of gas. Who knows -- maybe it will catch on and come to New York, as these sort of things often do, i.e., the ABBA musical Mamma Mia coming here from London.

Name: Simonie
Subject: Xanadu Live!
-- Nov 1, 2001 at 1:48PM
Again, Mr. Repsher, I encourage you to check out Xanadu Live! in LA this weekend or next before it closes if at all possible. It really sounds like you'd be able to appreciate the camp and humour involved. Check out www.xanadulive.homes tead.com for reviews.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Nov 1, 2001 at 6:44AM
Thank you for sharing, Queen, but the day I get "loose" enough to recognize Xanadu as an unironically "good" movie is the one where my brains slip out of my head. Reading a book? Cooking dinner? No, I was paying money. To sit in a theater. And wonder why I wasn't at home talking to my pet rock.

Name: QueenRissa
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 31, 2001 at 11:36PM
For as long as I can remember, this has been one of my favorite movies. (I was 4 when it was released). I don't know if it was the story line, the music (which was awesome) or the fact it was a movie that dealt with the Greek gods and myths in (at that time) the modern era. Obviously, William S. Repsher was either reading a book, cooking dinner or something else which would have prevented him from acually watching the movie. Anyone with even half a brain would know what the movie was about (hello, she was a MUSE, that is why she came out of a wall!) The muses from Greek myths provided inspiration to artists and helped them find thier way to achive what they were meant to achive. In Sonny's case, it was to open a roller skating place that was new and innovative and imaginative. Just watching the last few scenes, anyone can see that Xanadu was not just any roller skating place, but a magical one for the people skating there. It also provided Danny a chance do do something good with his money instead of staying home and listening to records or playing the clarinet on the beach. I will admit, that unless you have any sort of imagination, you will not get this movie. Most critics are always on the lookout for "significant&qu ot; movies, or ones that pull on your heart stings, they never seem to watch a movie just for the fun of it. I think movie critics need to stop being so harsh on movies. How many times have critics said a movie was awful, and yet there are record movie sales or large groups of devoted fans. As for the music, how anyone could not enjoy that soundtrack is beyond me. Everytime I put Magic or Xanadu or any of the other songs, my heart feels light and I don't have a care in the world, the music has that effect on me, and others I'm sure.
William Repsher is SO totally wrong in saying this movie is "bad, bad, bad", and he needs start to spending his time trying to lossen up a little and start paying attention to a movie if he is going to review it.
Thank you for your time.

Name: destry
Subject: xanadu
-- Oct 27, 2001 at 5:04PM
I own this movie on VHS and DVD and the DVD version is great! Especially when you hear it. When it first came out is Hawaii, my friends and I would go to see the first showing (around 11am) and stay until the last showing (10:30pm) every weekend for 5 months! Straight! Now you cant do that (stay in the movie theater)without them kicking you out and having to pay for the next show, but back in the days, you could stay as long as it wasn't sold out. I know every line word for word. But who could forget that soundtrack?!? "Dancin" alone was worth the CD! Maybe it wasn't "Oscar-worthy&q uot; but it brings back some good memories from "hanabada" days, and to each his own!

Name: Simonie
Subject: Xanadu Live! website
-- Oct 24, 2001 at 9:16PM
www.xanadulive.homes tead.com

Enjoy!

Name: penfold
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 24, 2001 at 3:42AM
well I guess I am amazed at how many people actually like this movie. I thought I must be the only one. in all honesty, it was a terrible movie, but Livvy was great (even if her acting skills were a little dubious). the remake of the title tune (olivia project feat. paula) rocks in the night clubs, and the video clip they have done with clips from the movie.

so great to see that there are some other Livvy and Xanadu fans out there, and just remember... in that place where nobody dared to go, its where time stops and the magic never ends.

By the way, simonie, your email address didn't come up on your message, so where is this xanadu live fan page?

Name: Simonie
Subject: Xanadu Live! fan page
-- Oct 23, 2001 at 11:49AM
Hi everyone!

I've created a little fan page for Xanadu Live! the stage musical! Email me for the address if you have the time and let me know if there's anything incorrect or someone I need to credit (considering that I will be adding to it over the next few weeks).

Thanks!
Simonie

Name: beetlenut
Subject: Xanadu in the Millenium
-- Oct 22, 2001 at 1:44AM
The most funniest thing about this movie was not so much how bad it IS and WAS, but how it has managed to attract more fans after the fact! I was a die-hard Xana-Nut only thru the ELO connection. The oddest thing is also I was (and still remain) an avid Queen fan too!
When ELO and Queen (in '79) both did soundtracks for Universal Studios projects (ELO-Xanadu/Queen-Fl ash Gordon), I ironically bought one more album after the movies, then lost touch with them. Around the 79 to 80-81 era, punk rock was fusing with disco to create new wave (was it me or did Yazoo and Duran Duran just sound so easy to get into when they arrived?). Xanadu was unfortunately behind by 2 years with the roller disco theme (remember Roller Boogie or Patrick Swayze in Skatetown USA?).Xanadu chronicled the last rites of the 70's happy day-glo disco party with the brash anger of pseudo-disco-punk glam all the while paying homage to the way-older 40's nostalgia.Gene Kelly was the definite actor/performer who would try and attempt anything! He roller skated in Singin In The Rain way before Ms. Olivia. He did a dance-themed tribute in That's Dancing by giving respects to the then-burgeoning breakdance scene.The movie was never meant to make political statements or spiritual conversions. It was more along the lines of...hey,Star Wars effects are possible, let's adapt them to the Busby Berkley 40's musical sequences...the only way to see them was not on Broadway, but on a screen!! How else could Olivia turn into a laser stream and fly away?? I'd like to see Industrial Light & Magic conjure that one up, live onstage!!! Xanadu has an individual appeal...find it, enjoy it, and move onward! If not, rent Pennies From Heaven with Steve Martin and realize that Xanadu wasn't so far off the mark!

Name: briony
Subject: costume
-- Oct 19, 2001 at 6:56AM
i wasnt too keen on that out fit to be honest, i think she looked best in the rag thing, i dunno, it went with the charecter. but i suppose in a way....nah forget it mental block. and jill, i definatly agree with you, well said!

Name: rock hudson
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Oct 16, 2001 at 6:16AM
I totally agree, dear Jill !

Name: jill
Subject: definately magic
-- Oct 15, 2001 at 8:38PM
I think Xanadu is a movie unlike those we will probably ever see again. It was the simplicity of the mysterious account of inspiration and love that has been long lost in movies these days. The music was mystical and made you really feel the conflicts and the urge for sonny and kira to be together. Let's be honest, anyone who saw this movie and has even a remote romantic side thinks about the Amazing world of "Xanadu" and what it would really be like. That used to be the fun in movies, when you actually think,"wow imagine a place like that?" and also olivia is like the coolest and glamourous fit perfect for her character!

Name: jill
Subject: olivia is amazing!
-- Oct 15, 2001 at 8:28PM
I am 21 years old and Xanadu has been my favorite movie for ever! That movie inspired me to believe in love and Olivia is the coolest, and the makeup and outfit when she sings "Xanadu" before she gets beamed up(the sparkles and gold cape-like thing).......what can you say, shes so awesome!!!!!!!!!!

Name: simonie
Subject: Xanadu Live! LA theatre production 2001
-- Oct 15, 2001 at 6:56PM
I think I have something all of you would be able to agree on, whether you liked Xanadu or have some problems with it - the new theatre production of it called Xanadu Live! www.xanadulive.com. It finds all the humor in the original movie, without losing all the wonder and beauty of Olivia and the music in the process. It's fun for everyone. If you live anywhere near LA, you HAVE to check it out! It's a cheesy but loving homage to all the good and "bad" of the movie. Gascon Theatre, Culver City, CA through mid-Nov.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: the real deal
-- Oct 8, 2001 at 2:46PM
If you truly felt that fear, you never would have made comments like you have under a different part of this website.

Name: briony (non fake name)
Subject: the real deal
-- Oct 8, 2001 at 2:34PM
i do often think about what xanadu would be like if it was made now. ie. who would actually play sonny and kira, where it would bve set, would sonny be a painter, or would he be a struggling writer or would he be a musician? it is one of them questions which i hope will be answered in the near future. good luck to anyone who tries.

william. reality check here hon, i dont have the same mind as the evil terrorists, i deeply believe that they are the cowards, and taking pleasure from the fear, I FELT THAT FEAR

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Stately Pleasuredome: This Old House needs work!
-- Oct 7, 2001 at 9:05PM
Sorry to drag things off topic there, Alison, but my new pal "Briony" saw fit to state a few deeply offensive points of view that needed to be addressed directly and as clearly as possible. But glad to hear someone check in with a sane mind and a recognizable agenda. Good luck with Xana II.

Name: Alison Rain Forrester
Subject: Stately Pleasuredome: This Old House needs work!
-- Oct 7, 2001 at 5:58PM
Yikes-things sure are getting a bit off-subject, aren't they? William, you shouldn't validate posters like that one by devoting so much rebuttal text to them. Be more like Cecil Adams - he'd simply have said:"forget to take your medicine this morning Briony?"
Anyhow, I continue to develop story elements for my Xanadu remake. I'm working my way through Der Ring Des Niebelungen-another over the top production dealing with gods and godesses in a musical, theatrical fashion-researching pop art treatment of Mythology. Also, lots of Anime. Strange how the Archetype of the tall, thin, blond ethereal woman permeates works from disparate cultures. Hmm...
Xanadu sticks around in the pop culture collective consciousness for reasons more profound and fascinating than would seem on the surface. A lot of folks love it cuz Olivia was in it. Some cuz of ELO's music. Others cuz of the mercilessly bad acting and lack of chemistry between the leads. Then there was the asphyxiating Disco trout dying in the bottom of the fishing boat of the 70's, and the unsuccessful attempt to modernize Disco for the 80's. To have all these things to dwell on in one movie is a treat in itself to be sure. But rereading all these yaks convinces me the real appeal of the movie is a metaphysical one. That'll be a hard row to hoe trying to tap into that. But I'll try.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: by the way.....
-- Oct 6, 2001 at 4:11PM
Briony (fake name), I could care less about our sanity, which is obvious (your mental state, not my thoughts), you are like a lot of people on the web -- anonymous, cowardly and beneath contempt. Stay in your small rainy English town (mates? Friends reference?) with your videotapes, because the rest of the world is too much for you to comprehend. You're homophobic (stop lying about your imaginary mates), xenophobic (you apparently look down on people based on physical traits, status in life, and no doubt much more), trapped in some bizarre fantasy world (Xanadu fixation), most likely a teenager, judging by your level of intellect (then again, plenty of emotionally stunted adults like you out there), and, apparently so stupid you don't know when you're sending posts twice.

I've crushed no one's dream by having an opinion which, frankly, wasn't all that negative to begin with, at least not to zealots living in a fantasy world.

The kicker comes with your message to another part of this website, which sounds strangely similar to the thoughtless, inhumane points of view shared by terrorists and their sympathizers over the past two weeks -- you obviously take pleasure in the direct and very real fear everyone in New York City felt that day -- which transaltes as a perversion on your part beyond any ass-backwards, wrong-headed points of view you obviously hold towards homosexuality, perception of physical beauty and hatred of impoverished people.

But don't worry Briony (fake name) -- so long as there are people like you in the world, i.e., thoughtless cowards living in a fantasy worlds, there will always be terrorists. It's none of my concern what you do with your life, Briony (fake name), but take a good piece of advice and lay off the internet cowardice, it's a dead end, which must not be a new feeling for you. Get help, if possible. And in terms of annoyance, get a clear picture -- when you've watched the World Trade Centers tumble to the ground, someone like you presents a very minor annoyance, but an annoyance nonetheless. You were the one who came here with an insulting demeanor (check out my responses on this site and notice who gets the same treatment). You're right in one way though -- I'd like to crush any fantasy you have that you are in any way right for expressing points of view that are offensive to any sane person. But, you called it yourself, you are "no where near" there. Get help, Briony (fake name) -- and start with taking responsibilities for you own actions and hiding on the internet.

Name: kirawannabe
Subject: by the way.....
-- Oct 6, 2001 at 3:32PM
my name is briony, and i am no where near sane.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: william....oh william
-- Oct 5, 2001 at 3:42PM
Sorry, Kira (fake internet name), but you're wrong on all accounts. But even if you were right ... short, fat and bald? What does this have to do with anything? Could you expound on this a bit, because I'm curious as to what you have against people who are this way? Gay? What would my sexuality have to do with anything -- and why do you bring it up as if being gay would be a derogatory issue? Why do you say this -- and don't you recognize that there are plenty of gay men out there who absolutely love Xanadu and would take deep offense at your limited morality? Shit wage? What does it matter how much money I do or don't make? Why should this be an issue you or anyone cares about, and why would any sane person use this type of insult? If I was poor, which I'm not, would it make you feel better about yourself? And if it did, why?

Sorry, Kira (fake name), but I've learned a lot more about you in one xenophobic, narrow-minded paragraph than you'll ever know about me.

Who's we? And forgive me if I mistake annoying, anonymous creeps on the internet for a "rather large boot" -- I'm not re-thinking anything due to a typical, tasteless, shallow, apparently amoral slob like yourself.

All this just from one paragraph! Tell me more, Kira (fake name), so I can look deeper into that crystal ball of yours!

Name: kira wannabe
Subject: william....oh william
-- Oct 5, 2001 at 2:59PM
well william..... diddnt we have a rather large boot up ones arse yesterday? u need to re-think your status almong the many people who "look up" to u. what do u look like? i bet u are short, fat and bald, most likely gay, and earn a shit wage gettin pleasure out of people hating you. i bet u like that william...... and shane... ride on cowboy!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Camp Classic
-- Oct 4, 2001 at 11:06PM
Lessons on taste from someone named after a fucking cowboy in a movie. Shall your spawn be named Big Red? Hopalong? Tex?

Name: Shane
Subject: Camp Classic
-- Oct 4, 2001 at 7:37PM
You obviously have zero taste. This is a camp classic that inspires nostalgia and will live on forever. Read your own message board on teh subject

Name: kirawannabe
Subject: what else?
-- Oct 4, 2001 at 2:06PM
c'mon, who wrote that shit? this movie is classical 80's. its a feelgood chick-filck, but it also highlights the poor poor dress sence off the 80's (from what i have been told. i woz born in 86, so i dont remember that much)

Name: A9NoteGoddess
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 30, 2001 at 2:02AM
Actually, Michael Beck was in another movie -- I can't remember the name of it, but it was about a special ops unit, and it also starred Barry Bostwick. And Sandahl Bergman, one of the muses, played the part of Valeria in the "Conan" movies, as well as co-starring w/"Rowdy" Roddy Piper in the cult film, "Hell Comes to Frogtown." The Tubes went on to perform such classics as "Talk to Ya Later," and "She's A Beauty." "Xanadu" was my favorite movie when I was 11 years old, and remains one of my favorites -- as well as the infamous "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band," and some of the other films mentioned in the article. Heck, I can't help it. I love bad movies. Inspired (no pun intended) by "Xanadu," my 2 best friends and I used to "play muses" and because of this film, we read volumes about Greek mythology. Our playtime became something of an amalgam of "Charlie's Angels," stories out of "Bulfinch's Mythology," and "General Hospital." (Well, it WAS the early 80s.) Even my AOL screen-name shares part of its roots in my "Xanadu" past, and I, for one, am not ashamed of feeling a sense of nostalgia every time I watch it. I even went so far as to include "Suddenly" on a compilation CD of love songs that I just burned for my boyfriend. Maybe it's just me, but I think that movie -- as bad as it could be at times -- had a charming quality to it that I for one, still enjoy.

Name: JESUS CORTEZ
Subject: I LOVE THE XANADU MOVIE
-- Sep 24, 2001 at 4:20PM
HOLA LES ESCRIBO DESDE SONORA MEXICO, QUIERO DECIRLES QUE ME GUSTA MUCHO LA OELICULA Y LA CANCION DE XANADU, OJALA PUDIERA COMPRAR LA PELICULA EN ESPA�OL

Name: Marcpunk
Subject: Pan Pacific
-- Sep 21, 2001 at 5:45PM
Just an FYI to anyone still interested, and not having anything to do with the last few posts... The Pan Pacific Auditorium is being rebuilt. I just took a trip back to LA, and cruised down Beverly Blvd to pay my usual homage to its resting grounds, and I could not believe my eyes. the new building is clearly smaller, but retains the streamline moderne architecture of the original. Now if the owners could just get Livvy to perform at its opening night (perhaps with her eight sisters, dressed in tight leopard prints, cowboy gear and all her diva goddess regalia) my life will be complete.

Name: Alison Rain Forrester
Subject: Stately Pleasuredome-recentl y renovated
-- Sep 7, 2001 at 1:03PM
Now where was I...
I'm not a filmmaker - I'm a composer. So I'd farm the visual aspects out to others. But now that we've had 20 years of practice making arty music videos I'm sure I could find SOMEONE to take on this project. It needs to be made. Just think how cathartic it'd be to all the Xanadu fans out there. Look at all the lame 70's retro retread films of late. I'd try to learn from those failures. Your facetious suggestion to use Britney and Radiohead doesn't appeal to me. I'd get talented musicians. If I could, I'd have Vangelis or Hans Zimmer score the film. That is, if I didn't feel up to it myself, which I do.
Freed from the constrains of making a star vehicle for any one mediocre pop singer(who shall remain nameless)a male and female lead could be found that not only look good, but who are also articulate and skilled actors. To believe in this movie I agree would require a shrugging-off of cynicism and slacker I-may-not-be-contrib uting-anything-at-al l-but-I'm-way-too-co ol-for-that attitude. I look like a typical post-punk person, but I watch movies with complete wide-eyed innocence and suspend my belief willingly. I'd ask that of others. I believe I'd get it too, considering the way people describe the reasons why they love the original Xanadu.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Stately Pleasuredome-2&1 /2bath
-- Sep 5, 2001 at 10:08AM
Good luck with the remake -- be sure to get Britney Spears and Radiohead for the soundtrack.

Name: Alison Rain
Subject: Stately Pleasuredome-2&1 /2bath
-- Sep 4, 2001 at 9:21PM
Well William m'boy, your nightmare has come true: I'm rewriting and remaking Xa- well, you know. This movie moved and haunted me more than any other film I've ever seen - with the possible exception of "The Bermuda Depths." (you really need to review THAT one one of these days)Yes, it is a fantastically deplorable film. But elements of the premise, the music, and the Art Direction worked together to take us outside the realm of rational thought and criticism. What all these posts show is that the beauty of that place makes Xanadu unique. Its ability to linger in our hearts makes it far mor valuable than it's failure as a normal movie. If done right this movie would be more of an opera. Or an episode of Star Trek (original series)The inexplicable casting mistakes and lack of cohesive intent and direction sunk it. But I see no reason why those elements which folks adore after 20 years couldn't be re-forged and reimagined into something special. Now that the average person has access to more computing power than all of NASA in 1980, the special effects could be redesigned and updated within a modest budget. This new film's music would receive a proper scoring. Some songs would stay and be rearranged and modernized. Xanadu lacked good acting because it lacked a good story center. I really liked the idea put forth in these posts, of making kira's conflict between losing immortality and gaining true love a stronger theme. The Sonny character (no my version would not have a male lead named "Sonny")wo uld have to: a)be an emotive,passionate character b) show passion for opening a club from the outset; and c) a good dancer! Gene Kelly's character was unnecessary. He represented what happens when you give up on dreams. Zzzz. We don't need a burnt-out clarinetist to illustrate what's friggin' obvious. I'll continue when I have a smidge more time and sleep and do you believe me now Sonny?

Name: SweetPrincess123
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 22, 2001 at 8:28PM
in regard to this movie my opinion, is that for its time xanadu is exceptionally great whoever this magazine writer is doesn't know what he is talking about xanadu is so far the best written film of the 1980s and though the plot seems a little out there the soundtrack is great as is the movie therefore i am in favor of it my mother grew up watching that movie then she passed it on to me who cares if it doesn't have nudity to me i think that the directors of this century should create more movies like xanadu i know im not like everyone else on this message board cause after all i didn't grow up watching xanadu but that doesn't mean that people my age aren't able to enjoy it.

Name: Rhiannon
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 18, 2001 at 1:16AM
I was 6 when this movie came out and I remember wanting to be Kira.As far as I'm concerned and especially this day in age, we need a little fantasy in our lives.Yes,it wasn't the best written movie,but it was innocent,fun and lighthearted.The music is great.I own the soundtrack and listen to it quite often.Iv'e seen alot of movies worse than Xanadu.It beats the hell out of a movie like Seven and Natural Born Killers.Now in her fifties,Olivia Newton John is still looking as beautiful and vibrant as she did 21 years ago in Xanadu.

Name: Rebecky
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 14, 2001 at 11:51AM
I grew up watching Xanadu and loved every part of it. When I watched it recently (15 years later), I realized how poorly it was made. Yet the music is so great. ELO did a great job in making the music the best part. I still love the movie, but don't expect anyone to like it. There's even a roller-skating rink in Utah named Xanadu.

Name: VintageRE
Subject: Xanadu & Olivia
-- Aug 13, 2001 at 1:52AM
I saw the movie because Olivia was in it. I was 20, and went alone to a basically empty theatre. I relished most of the scenes that Livvy was in (the dance with G. Kelly had me shakin' my head with one eye closed =ugh).
I know if Olivia hadn't been in the film, I probaby would not have seen it, and I know I would not have watched it again. Still, she was in it and this alone lured me to watch the film many times over the years. The music was a big plus, and the wild colors and dancers allow you to see something new each time- but really, it's not a film classic. I am still a big Olivia fan, and I'm glad she chose a vehicle that let her sing and be everyone's fantasy. The box office failure humbled Olivia's career and I think sent her on a journey to pick material that "she" wanted to do having tasted both success and failure. This allowed her to create some of her best music without regards to critcs and targeting the pop crowd.
Xanadu is a film you can share with kids, and remains a Saturday matinee movie that you can watch without concern over editing during commercial breaks. I am very grateful that the film captured forever Olivia's timeless beauty
with some great music.
Had Kira been played by someone else?
Well............ ....

Name: professor plonk
Subject: xanadu
-- Aug 13, 2001 at 1:27AM
(HAYLEY RINGS 8 TIMES)
SARAH: Hayley�s poo!
HAYLEY: Sean said I could.
(No I didn�t hayley. I did not allow you to use the phone.)
SARAH: Yeah, and guess what?
It�s dad�s and he said nobody�s allowed to use it.
Cause you...
HAYLEY: Poo to you.
(HAYLEY RINGS 12 TIMES)
HAYLEY: How again..
(HAYLEY RINGS 10 TIMES)
HAYLEY: Stravo... Stravo�Stravo�
Cos Si Va Varge
Mushididi Ahh Cor�
Konichiwa. Watashi wa.
O Shitte Wa
O Shitte Wa
O Shitte Wa
Ohh Ohh Ohh.
Ba-Ba.
Bye-Bye
This is Marlene�s �. Grandaughter here.
Marlene�s Grandaughter.
Marline�s grandaughter.
Ha Ha Ha.
HAYLEY: You little spy, you�re a little twerp Beluinda!
SARAH: So are you Hayley!
HAYLEY: OH!
Tambourine be played.
SARAH: See Sean so old in black and white and so�s Hayley.
Tambourine be played.
(HAYLEY RINGS 5 TIMES)
MUM: Sean!
(goes out to see mum)
(HAYLEY RINGS 2 TIMES)
HAYLEY: It�s his job.
We want Jean..
(deep breath)
(Hayley coughs)
Hmmm Hmm Hmm
(deep breath)
It�s a hard life.
It�s a hard life.
Hello.
PHONE: Now Now.
HAYLEY: It�s a hard life.
Come on year seven.
You keep ringing up my house.
I don�t know (laugh)
Come on year seven, two straight lines.
Your so cheeky
I�m so cheeky
(Tambourine played by Hayley).
(Hayley played with the toy guiitar)
HAYLEY: Yes poo - poo but I know it is my poo!
This old man..
Sarah Anne..
Yes poo - poo but I know it is my poo!
This old man he played one;
he played nick nack on my bum
I know I wipe poo on the wall saays Sarah Anne Hopkins
but my mother thinks its just stubbornness dirt�.
Scrub� Scrub� Scrub�
(plays with toy guitar)
HAYLEY: And oh, I�ll call my mum I�ve been� I have to tell her.She�ll be worn out.

Name: xanadu73
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 5, 2001 at 4:06AM
I'd just like to put in my two cents worth on the subject of the movie we've all been warring about for some time.
'Xanadu' was never intended to come across as some Academy Award-winning dramatic performance. It was about singing and dancing and dreams. In a movie world where the bottom line is who can't top the box office that week, it's refreshing to watch something that's lighthearted and carefree. Who the hell cares if it was campy??? That was the era! When I saw the movie for the first time, at the age of seven, I was so taken by the movie and its stars that I thought I was in the movie with them, and that everything was surreal. Admittedly, over the years, my opinion of the movie has changed to some degree, but I can look at subjectively and objectively, and understand that 'Xanadu' got its point across. Sit at the theatre for an hour and three quarters, and be entertained by hordes of dancers and the wonderful music of ELO and Olivia's sweet voice.
I mean, look at 'Rocky Horror Picture Show'. If you want to talk campy, what the HELL is that. Yet, it has a cult following, and yes, I can look subjectively and objectively at the movie and see some of its appealing qualities.

My biggest point is that it was a movie of its time, yet beyond its years too. It told of a wayward artist being directed by a beautiful muse and former nightclub owner. I think it showed that sometimes we need a little push in the right direction to follow our true dreams. How many movies nowadays show us that? I know most of the acting was abhorrent, but it is also an endearing movie to me, and will remain that way to me forever.

Name: XanaduMe
Subject: A place where nobody dares to go...
-- Jul 30, 2001 at 10:18AM
Xanadu rules. Case closed. I saw this as a kid in the theatre - fell in love with Sonny Malone .... shit .. I think I became an artist in my adult life because he subconciously but that career in my head growing up! And ONJ? Holy toledo!! She was BEAUTIFL! What girl, after seeing that movie, didn't go out and get the braided barrets, the white booted skates and leg warmers? 

Was the acting bad? Yes. 
What the special effects horrbile? Yes. 
But that is what makes this movie great! It wasn't those things that this movie was about! It was about the MUSIC (which just kicks ass - although doesn't anyone else want to hear the montage of songs at the end of the movie on the soundtrack? Ya know - the ones where she is the 40's tap dancer, the C&W singer, the lepoard print wearing Diva??? Those were my favorite!). It also was the era (I STILL have memorized my skating routine to all the songs down pat! I had many a recital in my dad's office listening to this album on his old RCA LP player). 
So all you Xanadu haters out there - watch it for what it was made for .... being taken somewhere that was so unreal and campy at times that it just rocked! 
I am in such love with this movie that, not only do I own a copy of it on VHS, that I own TWO copies ... just in case something happens to the first (how tragic would THAT be). :)
 
XanaduMe

Name: German Tarkanova
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 23, 2001 at 1:36PM
Exelente pelicula protagonisada por Olivia newton jhon, y me gustaria conseguir una original con sub titulo en espa�ol felecidades desde Venezuela. gracias

Name: German Tarkanova
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 23, 2001 at 1:35PM
Exelente pelicula protagonisada por Olivia newton jhon, y me gustaria conseguir una original con sub titulo en espa�ol felecidades desde Venezuela. gracias

Name: paladin
Subject: your review
-- Jul 23, 2001 at 1:07PM
I can't beleive you would talk like this about Xanadu. It is a masterpiece and should have received an Academy award and be re-released.
You make me sick, and you are a communist!

Name: Felicia
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Jul 17, 2001 at 5:11PM
I grew up in the 80s and loved this movie. In fact, I still love it and own a copy. This movie is to me what Grease is to most people. It is still a magical movie to me and I love the music. I've only met a hand full of people who have seen the movie but they too enjoyed it as much as I did and still do. However, I think that only those people who grew up watcing it appreciate the movie.

Name: Walter B
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 10, 2001 at 7:52AM
I grew up in the 80's while watching this movie, and I always thought it was good. Some years passed and I sort of forgot about it, only to watch it again and be flooded by this incredible magic. Xanadu isnt this carefully crafted plot- Im a film and acting student, so I am usually pretty critical of bad movies- But Xanadu really has a magic like no other film Ive ever seen. First of all, How Hot did Olivia look in her drapy muse dresses? In her booted roller skates with those ribbons in her hair! -- And a lot of people complain about Michael Beck, but can you picture anyone else in that role? He had that kind of Andy Gibb-ish charm that defined the very early 80's. And Gene Kelley is incomparable. The "All over the World" scene really captures his charm and vivacity.

All in all, people complain about Xanadu because they dont know what to compare it to. I really believe it is in a class all its own. It really has a magic that I have not found in any other film- Every song is fantastic; some catchy & fun and some beautiful ( I personally loved 'Suspended in Time' and the animation sequence 'Dont walk away') I mean, sure its far-fetched, but its the kind of ridiculous story that doesnt seem totally preposterous for some reason that makes Xanadu a classic film.

Im sorry this is long, but anyone who takes the time to read this should realize that Xanadu isnt a bad film, just a different kind of film that we rarely ( actually never) have seen since. The whole roller skating thing is what gives me fond memories of the 80's. I dont like "nice" or "family" movies, but this is something you can watch with your family, by yourself, or with any type of friend.

Bottom Line: If you say Xanadu is horrible, you couldnt by more wrong.
-- I could go on for a long time about this movie, but I do have a life---

Id enjoy reading your responses--

Walter B

Name: Bronson T. Smith
Subject: contact me , about Xanadu
-- Jul 4, 2001 at 1:59AM
my e-mail is Bronson_s@msn.com. would love to hear from the people whom appreciate the film. if anyone is looking for the Xanadu 12" album. i have one extra copy. ill only charge shipping. .......its only for a really fan tho. ok

Name: Bronson T. Smith
Subject: on more thing
-- Jul 4, 2001 at 1:45AM
the other reason i like Xanadu so much is..its a magical love story. and ive always been a romantic type. second fav movie is Somewhere in time.released in 1980 also.

Name: Bronson T. Smith
Subject: Xanadu Movie
-- Jul 4, 2001 at 1:32AM
i first saw the movie Xanadu, when i was 10, the line to the theater wrapped around the place 3 times,the parking lot was turned into a disco, complete with lite dance floor.it was my introduction to Olivia Newton John. i fell in love with her. i to this day, love the movie, i now have it on DVD.I HAVE THE ALBUM, its now been in my posetion for 21 yrs. yes, the stoy line is a little flacky, but .....it was a hug hit at the time. it made alot of money. and Olivia made a great daughter of Zeus, i thought.i wish i had a muse that looked like that.and had a voice as wonderfull as hers.so, if you dont like the movie....dont watch it. but you dont have to bad mouth it, and slam it.regardless. its a classic. and always will be.and i really love the sound track. have that on CD, TOO.

Name: Colin McMurray
Subject: Xanadu Movie
-- Jun 27, 2001 at 3:34PM
You know, the directors wanted to make olivia the goddess we all saw her as...that worked. If you have listened to ONJ interviews, Olivia will tell you, a director was fired during the shoot and the story was re-written day by day, hence, its f@#$ed up story line. But I can tell you this, besides the great ONJ songs from that movie, I have tons of friends that demand I show them the last 20 minutes of that film 'every' time they are over. It is loaded with costumes, hairstyles, dancing, songs and over-the-top campy fun.

And another point, I am fabergasted at the amount of response this review got, it's great.

Colin McMurray

Name: Lisa Solimine
Subject: Xanada Movie
-- Jun 19, 2001 at 3:52PM
I dont think Xanadu was all that awful for the time period. There are much worse today. "Rounders" is my all time worst movie seen in a movie theatre.
I love Olivia, im a huge fan, i wish she would make a new album, her voice is so beautiful and so is she.
Sincerely,
Lisa Solimine

Name: Mark Nichols
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 19, 2001 at 12:35AM
Since 1980 this remains my FAVORITE MOVIE and SONG!

* When will Universal let it out on the "silver screen" again... I never got to see it at the movies!

Xanadu@Nichols-N -Dimes.com

Name: sgt pepper
Subject: The whole Xanadu kit & kaboodle!
-- Jun 17, 2001 at 1:54PM
I am a 47 year-old pub DJ in the UK (which means I play background stuff as opposed to floor-fillers) and from time to time I play a chunk of ELO tracks. They ALWAYS go down well with punters of all ages, and you'd be surprised how many under 30 year-olds know the words. I think the film Xanadu is wonderfully terrible (at least I think I think so, cos I haven't seen it for years) and after a natter recently with some punters, the film came up in conversation, and I decided to try and track down the movie through the net. I COULD NOT BELIEVE THE SIZE OF THE CORRESPONDENCE ON THIS SITE!!!!! You are all amazing - TWO SODDING YEARS WORTH? Wow - it worries me to think how some of these people have access to technology you know what I mean? Keep it up!

Name: PomPomBoy
Subject: Reply to Adam
-- Jun 14, 2001 at 7:45PM
Maybe that's your problem, Adam : you saw it through adult eyes...

Name: Adam Again
Subject: I also forgot to mention
-- Jun 10, 2001 at 6:07AM
A restaurant in Brisbane, Australia tried to open a Xanadu theme type restaurants where the waitresses would deliver meals ala roller skates. This ended up being a total failure. Why? Some inexperienced waitress would fly past the tables with the orders (beacuse they didn't know how to stop) and would slam into the counter or a wall. Other waitresses broke their ankes after going ass over tit.

There was a high staff turnover (or fallover) and compensation bills were mounting. In the end the restaurant was changed into a 50s bar.

BTW, my sister still has her copy of Xanadu on vinyly in reasonable condition and Olivia Newton John is visiting my city (Mount Isa, Australia) for a concert in less than two weeks.

I wonder if she will wear that white dress with the big split and white ribbons in her hair?

Name: Adam
Subject: Yes it is bad!
-- Jun 10, 2001 at 5:55AM
I loved Xanadu when AI was a kid. I was also aghast at how trashy the film was when it was rerun on cable yesterday. The funky lighting "Suspended in Time" made me cringe. I felt sorry for the entire cast and crew. Having watched this movie again through adults eyes I can now say how tacky it truly is.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu still rules
-- Jun 5, 2001 at 8:54AM
Good for you, Krys! And you can still kiss my Captain and Tennille tattoo -- you know where to find it.

Name: krys
Subject: xanadu still rules
-- Jun 5, 2001 at 8:34AM
wow i see that this is still going on i havent visited in probally 4-5 months. but im glad to see that a lot of people actually have great taste in movies and arent afraid to admit it to anyone . what got me to come to this site again is i saw where spin magazine this month had a positive comment about xanadu in it so i had to see what was going on here and it looks like a lot of people think like me about how good and positive and classic the movie is and mr. willie repshit is still a smartass that has no taste!!!!!

Name: stephanie
Subject: xanadu
-- Jun 1, 2001 at 1:45PM
i have to say, when Xanadu hit my movie theatre... i had to see it. a roller skater of sorts, i dreamed of owning the flowing skantily draped dress that adorned the back of the album cover. olivia was my idol. a year ago i rented xanadu, i didn't remember that it was INDEED BAD. but... i am still a true fan. truly.

Name: Marc
Subject: Re: film locations
-- May 24, 2001 at 5:37PM
You can find the location of the Auditorium on Beverly Blvd, in a huge empty lot just west of CBS Television City. The park behind the huge lot is the Pan Pacific Park. Lightposts are all that remain.

Some skating scenes were filmed along the boardwalks of Venice and Santa Monica. Anytime u see a fence behind Sonny and Kira, they are in Santa Monica, the bike path north of the pier. I read somewhere that Sonny skates down Dudley Street in Venice (which presumably runs perpendicular to the boardwalk) to crash into a mural that was never actually painted there.

When muses fly into the sky, some go thru the Bonaventure Hotel downtown, and some thru Universal's backlot.

I have no idea what beach was used for Danny's clarinet palying. There is nothing like this near SM or Venice. I would also love to know which studio was used for external shots of Airflow Records. There are a few (not Universal) that use art deco architecture. And I would love to know if the record store where the paintings are hung still exists. I haven't seen it anywhere in the Hollywood area. I'm guessin maybe the Valley?? I cannot read any street signs in outdoor shots.

Enjoy your pilgrimages!!

Anyone with more ideas???...

Name: Li
Subject: Xanadu in DDR
-- May 19, 2001 at 2:38PM
The arcade version of Dance Dance Revolution has an awesome dance mix of "Xanadu" called Olivia Project! >:D
It's also on the DDR 4th Mix import PSX version!

And...I first saw Xanadu when I was like 17 and I loved it. I even bought the soundtrack. :D
It's better than half the movies that come out now.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu
-- May 19, 2001 at 7:25AM
Only one complaint in your impassioned defense of this work of art, Kubla. "Reality is cold." No, reality is hot, cold and every temperature in between. And kudos to your own Private Idaho where Xanadu is a better movie than Pulp Fiction! I would PAY DEARLY to see Quentin Tarantino do a remake of Xanadu ... his way.

Name: MIKE K
Subject: xanadu
-- May 18, 2001 at 11:59PM
I honestly beleave that everyone has a right to their own opinion,thats what make our country great,But i actually loved the movie for the music and it has a story (no matter how cheesie)that gives a true romantic a feeling that love can happen anywhere and with anyone.The late 70`s and early 80`s were my happiest times and every song keeps my memories alive.HAPPILY

Name: Kubla Khan
Subject: xanadu
-- May 18, 2001 at 11:37PM
Oh, back off already! There was nothing wrong with the movie or the soundtrack for Xanadu. I'd gladly watch it over and over if given the choice between it and some of the crap that passes as film "art" nowadays (Pulp Fiction? Ugh. Being John Malkovich? This gets awards???) . No one in it is blown to bits, there's almost no profanity, and it has a happy ending. Gee, a movie that makes its audience feel good. Let's all hiss and spit, shall we? Yes, Kira jumps out of the wall, but that's what's called "willing suspension of disbelief". Reality is cold. Why should movies represent the crud we see in everyday life? So, a muse comes down from Mt. Olympus to inspire a struggling artist. Sounds like Mr. Repsher could either use a muse of his own or he's just frustrated at the lack of Newton-John flesh being bared. We could all use a touch of "sunny innocence" in whatever form it takes. You want nudity or sex scenes, try the back room at your local video store.

Name: laura
Subject: re: soundtrack
-- May 16, 2001 at 8:40AM
Jeff, you can get the CD @ Half.com. I just checked and they have several copies in stock.
Hope that helps. I've been listening to mine for days straight!

Name: Jeff
Subject: xanadu
-- May 15, 2001 at 9:28PM
It's true this movie is a bit cheesey, but a classic just the same. The soundtrack is awesome. I am not suprised to find a site dedicated to it. If anyone out there knows where I can get the CD soundtrack let me know because I can't find it anywhere!

Name: john@mccarthy.net
Subject: Film Locations
-- May 15, 2001 at 8:31PM
Does anyone know of the locations in which the Xanadu scenes were filmed?

I know the Pan Pacific Auditorium burnt down in 1989, but would still like to visit the spot. How about less memorable scenes like where Sonny's studio was located, the exact place where sonny and Kira bump into each other? Does anyone know where Kira and Gene Kelly danced? Is that someones home?

Even little scenes, like the location where Sonny grabs onto the van when on skates, and it pulls him along.

I finally made it to California (San Diego), and want to visit these locations. I am close enough to LA to make a weekend trip there.

If anyone knows the locations/streets where these scenes were taken, please email me, or post them here. I really want to visit them.

john@mccarthy.ne t

Name: laura
Subject: re: Xanadu movie & soundtrack
-- May 15, 2001 at 10:34AM
Well, I was 7 when this movie came out and I remember my sister (who was 3) and I watching the movie over and over on HBO. I rented it about 7 months ago and realized how lame the movie actually is. However, I LOVE the soundtrack. The ELO portion of it is the best. The two best songs on it are "All over the world" and "I'm Alive". I guess I am a late seventies music fan but I just love it. If I'm ever depressed "All over the world" instantly lifts my mood. It's just a feel-good song. For Julie, who inquired about the soundtrack- you can get it,I know, on CD now. It may be pricy, but it's worth it. Long live Xanadu!-at least the soundtrack anyway.

Name: michaelb
Subject: xanadu & olivia
-- May 15, 2001 at 12:27AM
great music, great stars and great dancingf but the story was weak. still love it and watch it every so often..olivia is cool...still is check her new movie Sordid Lives (2001)...still totally hot.

Name: N Mohr
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- May 10, 2001 at 4:16PM
I still love this movie (I'm sorry, but I was 11 in 1980). You have to admit that Gene Kelly was pretty amazing on rollerskates (for a 68 year old man) and ELO's music still brings back great memories. Beats the heck out of Ashley Kate and Mary Olson and Eminem!

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- May 9, 2001 at 3:51PM
Thank you, Marc, for so many details about the ArtDeco style in Xanadu.
We already remarked it and I'm glad you gave us so many details.

M. Repsher, please, I can bare a lot of things but the idea of Michael Beck naked...

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Obsessed Fan
-- May 8, 2001 at 8:09PM
Put it this way, Marc -- I now find it hard to bash Xanadu after buying a used copy ($3!) of Can't Stop the Music starring Steve Guttenberg, Valerie Perrine, Bruce Jenner and the Village People. It is bad ... bad ... bad. Xanadu is Citizen Kane next to this movie.

Actually an idea for a new movie: Citizen Rollerblade, starring Eminem, Elizabeth Berkeley, O.J. Simpson and Hanson. Basically Citizen Kane on rollerblades, with Eminem as the enigmatic Kane, Berkely as his diva love interest, O.J. as himself and Eminem as the perky boyband that Kane builds his multimedia empire on.

And none of this high-faluting "Repsher would still like to see Livvy naked" routine -- if you want to see Michael Beck naked, just say so. I'm sure he could use the work at this point.

Name: Marc
Subject: Obsessed Fan
-- May 8, 2001 at 6:16PM
I have just spent an hour scrolling through two and a half years of yakking, and am pleased to find many people out there who may be almost as obsessed with this movie as I am. I simply stumbled across this page as I searched Yahoo, after watching the DVD of it last night for the hundredth or so time.

It's nice to see my beloved movie defended by so many, but I won't bash Mr Repsher for his comments about the movie. He makes some valid points. It's not Citizen Kane, but it's not Roller Boogie either.

In fact I think Mrr Repsher knows this, and does appreciate its good qualities. It is a sorely needed throwback, not just to what we romanticize as a more innocent 70's (hello... Vietnam, Watergate, stagflation), but also to what we romanticize about the thirties (hmmm, depression??). We only remember what we want to, indeed. There is of course the lovely Livvy, whom even Mr Repsher would probably still want to see naked, even tho she's probaly as old as his mother. I'll be content to see her remain clothed, thank you, as she is still a pure gay goddess to me. Then there's the obvious camp factor, an appreciation of which is clearly shown by Mr Repsher's taste in movies. The Pirate Movie really stands up well over time. I know, I own one of the few copies on video. And Rock and Roll High School is a classic. Who wouldn't love a movie with the late great Joey Ramone and the comic geniuses mary Woronov and Paul Bartel. But I digress.

I do have a couple new points that were not mentioned in the musings of the past 2 and a half years that demonstrate a couple areas where Xanadu elevates itself above '70's shlock like Can't Stop the Music.

There is the ever-present Art Deco motif throughout the film. Xanadu glorifies the magnificent Pan Pacific Auditorium. Being an obsesssed fan, I have made a pilgrimage to its original site (okay, I lived 5 minutes away) and found only he lampposts remaining. But I was thrilled to see even those. The bases are carved with the same streamline moderne lines as the building. This form of architecture was prominent in LA in the thirties, and has found its way into modern buildings (eg, a music store in Westwood, if ur so inclined to check it out). I also have a great picture of the building by LA artist Stan Cline, and books that feature it prominently... "Los Angeles in the Thirties" and "American Art Deco." Like I said in the subject heading, I'm an obsessed fan. I've also rollerbladed down Venice Beach searching for the mural, hoping to hurl myself at it and forever join Olivia on Mt Olympus. And I named my cat Kira. But again I digress. I had a point... the art deco motif is beautifully carried throughout the film. Sonny's paiting on the van, the record store where he hangs his art, the toaster he draws, the mural inside Xanadu (a similar mural is painted at Banana Republic on the 3rd St Promenade in Santa Monica, check it out. They also had a good photo of the Auditorium, but can't find it duplicated anywhere). The art directors, set
designers and costumers made a cohesive movie from this artful perspective, which is significant since the movie was about a muse. Now if only the scriptwriters had been so cohesive...

Second, Olivia danced quite well in the film, a point often overlooked. She danced opposite Gene Kelly, and only looked a tad stiff in comparison. Not too shabby for someone who is not a dancer. Many rue the fact that he came out of retirement for Xanadu, but perhaps he saw a rare opportunity to work with an amazing star one last time. Kelly should be proud of his work, how he made those around him better entertainers, even if he cannot be proud of the final product.

Couple more points. I was amazed to read how many people were ten when they saw this film. My mother took me to see it for my tenth birthday. Something about people born in 1970 that flock to this movie I guess. And Brett, if ur still around, what clubs do u go to that still play the music, I havent heard any in a while (NYC or LA, hopefully). The DVD is a great, and cheap, addition to anyone's library. Grease isnt even available yet for us poor Livvy fans. And I got the cd 7-8 years ago, seems like the new one is worth checking out, remastered, extra artwork and all.

Okay, Mr Repsher. I await my lashings and public humiliation. In the meantime, I think I'll go grab a copy of NYPress, cuz u seem to be a pretty witty guy, even tho u find it hard to admit how much u love Xanadu.

Name: Shawn
Subject: Xanaduuuuu...
-- May 7, 2001 at 11:07PM
Hey...has anyone seen this on DVD yet?

I have to be honest...I remember when this first came to cable, I was checking the listings so I could see it everytime it was on (this was long enough ago that we didn't own a vcr...but I digress). I was watching this flick at 2am and I had a huge crush on ONJ and as I said in an earlier post...I was a huge ELO fan....also, I think I've seen every Gene Kelly flick. I wish that they still made movies like Gene made....this is probably the closest they have gotten in the last 30 years.....sigh. Now we have to settle for Scary Movie 2 and Freddy Got Fingered...oh the humanity....

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu Revisited
-- May 6, 2001 at 5:18PM
.. and I KNOW this song is about me.

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- May 5, 2001 at 8:09PM
You're so vain, Repsher...

Name: mb julie
Subject: i love this movie
-- May 3, 2001 at 10:51AM
i want to own it, also
and get a bio on michael
beck from the movie.
good acotor he is.,
cute andy gibbish
guy.
i wish i could meet
him someday.
i don't care if he's married either.
i want to see what
he looks like now.
usa

Name: tracy
Subject: xanadu
-- Apr 28, 2001 at 10:23AM
i also saw this film. i think it was one of olivia newton-john best films. thats how i became a fan of olivia. its nice to have a nice musical family film. its a pity they dont make films like that anymore!!!

Name: Mount Olympus
Subject: get a life
-- Apr 26, 2001 at 9:34AM
I cannot understand why everyone slams this movie, ease up..it was all in fun, what musical was ever made to be realistic, they are made to take you away from the horrors of everyday life.........it is a fantasy movie....and if you take it seriously you need to seek help.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Apr 26, 2001 at 8:49AM
Snow is ready for her close-up, Mr. Demille.

Name: snow
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 26, 2001 at 8:09AM
I too have a copy, for sentimental and nostalgic reasons. Music from movie plays in my house every day. Brings me back to a time when things seemed easier...Where time seemed suspended. Where that summer would never end...Where magic shimmered and glissened off my heart...and still to this day does...Oh Xanadu take me back if but for a moment. And the day I'll be at death's door, somewhere quietly in the back ground the sound track will play...And when no more I will be, in your arms Xanadu I shall see...forever more you and me.

Name: janet
Subject: xanadu
-- Apr 16, 2001 at 11:45PM
best movie ever seen my fave even named my daughter Keira(kira)

Name: PomPomBoy
Subject: Re : songs...
-- Apr 16, 2001 at 8:17AM
Dear Julie,

I know three CD editions of the soundtrack : the first one is really awful, the second one not good and the last one is wonderful. SONY released it in 1998 and you can buy it online through the onlyolivia.com website, the official fanclub.

Name: julie
Subject: songs from xanadu
-- Apr 15, 2001 at 7:25PM
where do i get the
soundtrack to this movie?
can i get it on tape?
or cd it now?
please help me out.
i will be so happy
to get a cool nice
response to this please.
thank you
julie

Name: julie
Subject: michael beck
-- Apr 15, 2001 at 7:21PM
he was sonny malone in
the movie xanadu.
i want to know where
he is right now?
home, where's his home,
can't find a bio
on him..
help me out..
please.
maybe at boarders?
books?
please respond if you
know his ware abouts.
thanks.
julie

Name: julie
Subject: i love xanadu
-- Apr 15, 2001 at 7:19PM
i made sonny malone,
necklace out of fimo.
and it's says sonny
on it. and xanadu on
the back of it. written
in. cool huh?
it's looks like an
edible cookie or pastry.
i love michael beck
he's so cute.
how old is he now.
someone please write me
soon. where is he
acting in.
and olivia also.
please.
thank you.
julierawls@43hot mail.com

Name: Ben
Subject: 'Fun' is better than 'interesting'
-- Apr 12, 2001 at 8:32AM
Been reading all the comments...hilarious !

Another example of 'fun' being the angle for 'bums on seats'. No industry knows this better than the music industry...and film. A good plot isn't always needed....I buzz the most when I'm plotless...

XANADU forever

Name: Jennifer
Subject: re:xanadu
-- Apr 8, 2001 at 5:23PM
i am at one with how cheesy i actually am...
Not only do i love this movie, I own it. As sad as this is i cannot lie

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Apr 4, 2001 at 12:40PM
YOU HEAR THAT ALL YOU PEOPLE IN THE GHETTO? IN TRAILER PARKS AND HOUSING PROJECTS ALL OVER AMERICA? A REAL LIFE CAN BE FOUND BY RENTING THE MOTION PICTURE XANADU, THE GREATEST MOVIE EVER MADE. RUN, DON'T WALK, TO YOUR LOCAL BLOCKBUSTER RIGHT NOW!

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 4, 2001 at 12:09PM
XANADU IS THE GREATEST MOVIE EVER MADE NO MATTER WHAT U SAY ABOUT IT & IF U DON'T LIKE IT THEN U NEED TO GO RENT IT & WATCH IT AGAIN & IF U STILL DON'T THEN U NEED TO GET A REAL LIFE

Name: Shawn
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 30, 2001 at 3:44PM
Hi my name is Shawn...and I know all of the words to every song on the friggin soundtrack..."H I Shawn!"....is there a 12 step program available?

To be honest..I stumbled across this site and now have it bookmarked...this article in particular nails my feelings about the movie...I'm a commercial artist now...and I have to wonder how much of an influence this goofy flick had. I've been a BIG ELO fan from way back...and that was a major draw for me...also, the animated bit in this film was Don Bluth's first solo work.

When is the next meeting?

Name: Monika
Subject: Xanadu location
-- Mar 19, 2001 at 4:37PM
If you guys want to see a Xanadu location that still exists, go to the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, CA. That was where a lot of the outdoor scenes were filmed, including Sonny chasing Kira on the moped. And as a special 1970's bonus, many scenes on Charlie's Angels were filmed there. During my recent CA trip I was awed at the Pier for those 2 reasons. If you get a chance, go!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu
-- Mar 13, 2001 at 8:10PM
Fair enough about Jeff Lynne, Andy. I must admit, I worshipped ELO in the 70s and can still appreciate what a kick they were. Get ready for the new ELO album that should be coming out with Jeff Lynne fairly soon -- I'm curious to see if he keeps going down that rockabilly roots or back to his bombastic pop/classical roots.

Name: Andy Ashburn
Subject: xanadu
-- Mar 13, 2001 at 6:08PM
My 4 year old daughter is watching xanadu right now she LOVES the dancing and rolling skating she does not care about the plot or the bad acting it the music and dancing. Loved this sight was interesting I first saw this movie when i was 15 and bought the album and wore it out. Was suprised on your comments on Jeff Lynne, he has done Alot in his career, I think enough to get the Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame, Along with ELO and Travling Wilburys he produces even Beatle Albums. Anyway like I said this isnt a Plot movie, ITS THE MUSIC and LONG LIVE IT>............. Thanks
Andy

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Mar 5, 2001 at 6:22AM
shut your big mouth
bitch

Name: Cerise Rose
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Mar 3, 2001 at 5:51PM
Loved this article! I thought it really captured that feeling I have about movies like this....kind of like a car accident. You're completely horrified, yet can't look away. :)

I too enjoyed Xanadu from the fantasy/mythological standpoint. When I first saw it, it was for Olivia (I saw Grease after all!). Michael Beck wasn't too hard on my pre-teen eyes either (although I will admit to having watch The Warriors MANY more times than Xanadu!). And it was like, Gene who? Some guy with a clarinet? Uh huh. What does that have to do with rollerskating?! hehe

I think there's something important about having these kind of movies around. For me, these are the movies I watched with my kid sister. Now as we're "29 and counting", we can still sit down and kill ourselves laughing or even quote these movies (ad nauseum according to the rest of the family! hehe) and enjoy it as part of the sisterly bond.

I will admit I've seen pretty much every movie you've mentioned here (and hey! What about the classic "Midnight Madness" with the irrepressible David Naughton....even before he filmed American Werewolf?! hehe It was also Michael J. Fox's first billing. Oh God! I'm doing it again! LOL)
Love them all!

Anyway, I just wanted to let you know I appreciated your take on this. I also wanted to let you know that I did read until the end - right to the last paragraph. It's so neat how reading a whole article will give a person the ability to comment intelligently about a subject. LOL :)

Or maybe it's just me. hehe

P.S. The funniest part of all this is I came across this site while looking for a song list to the Blue Lagoon Soundtrack. Is there a support group for this??? ;)

Name: pompomboy
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Feb 28, 2001 at 2:29PM
oh, yeah !
XANADU 2...

Name: TIMMMMMMMY
Subject: LOVED IT
-- Feb 28, 2001 at 2:17PM
I LOVED THE MOVIE IT HAD DRAMA A COOL SOUNDTRACK,AND OLIVIA AT HER HOTTEST.YUMMMY TO MY TUMMY .OLIVIA DO XANADU 2 PLEASE......

Name: nancy sinatra
Subject: i love you, girl
-- Feb 23, 2001 at 5:44AM
hi, Olivia ! Mmh, I love you so much. You're so irresistible in XANADU, I could eat you...

Name: robin
Subject: great
-- Feb 11, 2001 at 11:45PM
xanadu was the best movie i have ever seen i would like to see it again but can not find the movie any where if you know where i can rent it please email me at icelady63801@aol.com i would really like to see the movie again.
thank you.

Name: Kubla Kahn
Subject: Forget about the blues
-- Feb 8, 2001 at 2:31PM
Xanadu is the best movie ever.
Olivia is wonderful : I love you, Olivia. You are the best.

Name: fernando
Subject: bad!!!!?????
-- Feb 7, 2001 at 6:02PM
maybe is a terryble movie but olivia will be in my memory forever,i love you LIVVY!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Love
-- Feb 6, 2001 at 7:13AM
How do you argue with someone who uses four exclamation points and tells one to grow up for poking fun at Xanadu? Ooh, Salsa, you used the h-e-double toothpicks word!

Name: Salsa
Subject: Love
-- Feb 6, 2001 at 6:08AM
i love Xanadu....i love Olivia......by the way...what the HELL is wrong with you? Grow up and stop complaining about the movie!!!!

Name: Laszlo
Subject: "Magic"
-- Feb 3, 2001 at 11:18PM
First blowjob I ever got, that song was playing. I have a curious time seeing Olivia as virginal anymore.

Laszlo

Name: oh well
Subject: liv
-- Feb 3, 2001 at 8:51PM
nobody cares about yourbig bum movie i loved it

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Like I really believe you!!!
-- Jan 30, 2001 at 9:26AM
Chantelle -- Xanadu at that time? It was forgettable dross, churned-out late 70s star machine fodder, made to milk the Olivia Newton-John/roller disco audiences. And it worked -- but honestly, I walked out of the theater back then feeling I had wasted $2.50 or thereabouts.

Now? Well, read the article all the way through if you please. That ALL IMPORTANT LAST PARAGRAPH, which most people seem to be skipping, explains where I'm coming from.

Name: Chantelle
Subject: Like I really believe you!!!
-- Jan 30, 2001 at 8:05AM
So, you say this film and it's soundtrack are unmitigatingly awful!! All I can say to that is how come it got under your skin so much that you are still reviewing it 21 years later?? It's easy and safe to criticise the past, "everyone" does it, it's far more difficult to see something for what it was then complete with everything going on around it!

Name: Fourtrees
Subject: Xana-whew
-- Jan 26, 2001 at 12:40PM
Bravo Krys, Bravo Repsher and all those of you who are keeping a seriously pandered bit of 70's fluff alive. Perhaps if the Britneys and Christinas weren's so "adult and slick" the concept of "believing we are magic" and the ability to jump out of murals wouldn't be so foreign to them. I would much rather see a "love conquers all" video than an "oops I blew your head off again" video. Born in 65 I am a disco baby, I loved Andy, I wanted him to marry Olivia, I have written dozens of songs inspired by "the 70's disco baby musicians" and guess what, I have two kids a hubby and a college degree. Yeah, who is your average ONJ fan. Love it Hate it how did you connect to this link. Why are you still commenting on a 20 year old Rollerboogie ripoff. I'll say it. It changed my life. As for you Krys. Yeah, I don't like to have my "dream" slammed, but hey, if you are breathin' hard and your pulse is racin' and that tat is jumpin' stop a minute and remember - IM ALIVE! That's the kick. Forever is forever and that's where we are all headed after all. Got some dancin to do. gettin on my two feet tonite...

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xana-who?
-- Jan 26, 2001 at 12:02PM
Mike K., I write for Leisure Suit and weekly Manhattan newspaper called the NYPress. Those days at the Collegian seem like a vague memory now -- like I didn't really live those times. But I had fun at Penn State -- got a taste of what it was like to be a known writer, even if it was a small environment.

Got out of college. Thought everything was going to break my way. Was extremely arrogant -- a condition that didn't start remedying itself until I hit about 28 and started realizing that calling myself a writer was not the same as being one. Got a little more serious then. Stoped posing in Village coffee shops in hopes of getting laid by equally misguided young women. Realized it all came down to coming home at night and banging it out all alone. Kept getting better. Simply learned by experience -- much more than I learned in college writing class. And am now recognizing that fame and fortune aren't it -- simply being able to write for a living without having to tack on these extraneous, sometimes draning corporate gigs is my main goal. And each year I do a little more. Man, I was such an asshole when I got out of Penn State -- I didn't know anything! But I think I had the right spirit back at the Collegian. The real deal is getting people to pay you good money for your god-damned spirit.

Name: Mike K.
Subject: Re: Xana-who?
-- Jan 25, 2001 at 10:39PM
Yeah! I remember seeing you skating by, thinking "Damn, he looks like something out of Xanadu".
So is this your main writing gig these days? (I realize this has nothing at all to do with Xanadu, but I couldn't find a way to just send you a generic email). I always enjoyed your column in the Collegian (I actually have a few of them that I cut out and filed away), so it'll be fun seeing what you're writing now. I figured you'd either wind up at a major newspaper (although it looks like you enjoy the freedom of leisure suit), or start cranking out books.

Mike

Name: Bounce
Subject: I kinda liked it!
-- Jan 24, 2001 at 6:03PM
That animation sequence in the movie was great! How could you think this movie was completely bad? It had some really cool moments -- jumping out (or should I say, dancing out) of the painting, the cool musical number with the swing and rock music combined, and the muses were gorgeous. It's a classic. C'mon!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xana-who?
-- Jan 24, 2001 at 10:23AM
Yes! Actually, mid-80s was more like it. I was the one rollerskating around campus in satin hot pants when I wasn't assisting Bro' Cope with his religious diatribes on the steps of Old Main.

Name: Mike K
Subject: Xana-who?
-- Jan 24, 2001 at 1:21AM
Xanadu...Never saw it. Don't want to. William S. Repsher, on the other hand... now that's a familiar name. Did you go to Penn State, early to mid '80s, and write for the Collegian?

Mike

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: 2 years!
-- Jan 22, 2001 at 7:41PM
Azavatto, you can kiss my Captain & Tenille tattoo -- and if you don't know where that is, scroll down a few Yaks on the Xanadu page to find out.

Well, got a busy night lined up -- going to do karaoki at a bar in Gnome with the Mother Superior -- we're doing "God of Thunder" and "Hard Luck Woman." Wish us luck!

Name: azavatto
Subject: 2 years!
-- Jan 22, 2001 at 5:56PM
Jesus, this discussion has been going on for nearly 2 years. 2 years! I'm thinking, hee, hee, a review of Xanadu. How fun! How kooky those Leisuresuit guys are! But crikey, what a boil you lanced, Mr. Repsher. It's ugly! It's growing! It will not be stopped!
My 2 cents (as if they are needed): Michael Beck. Sigh. Pittar-pat, pitter-pat. It was the kind of deep smit that only a bored 12-yr-old girl could muster. Dig it!

Name: Alaysha
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 21, 2001 at 3:32PM
for some ungodly reason, I love this movie..I first saw it when I was 10 yrs old, and instantly wanted to be a muse on rollerskates..Its a really bad movie but its fun to watch, you don't have to think while watching it just sit back and and be astounded how such bad acting made it on the big screen..anyway I still love it and when I feel crappy I just pop it in the vcr and thank the gods (zeus) that I wasn't Michael Beck when this came out..thanks for listening..Alaysha

Name: jagermistress
Subject: Xanadu/ONJ
-- Jan 21, 2001 at 11:46AM
I found all of the responses interesting, personally. But what attracted me to the film was the reference to Greek mythology. I have always been fascinated with the nine Muses of Zeus (poetry, dance, history, etc.) This actually sparked a further interest to read more on mythology and learn more about where the name Xanadu came from (Coleridge's Kubla Khan, duh) and continue my education in my early years then eventually pursue a degree. The costumes, I thought, were fabulous. The music was fun and I love to listen to ONJ any day of the week and have been for over 20 years now. Muses are supposed to inspire. I think this movie did just what it set out to accomplish.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: olivia
-- Jan 21, 2001 at 9:49AM
Ah, Krys, you caught me online. I'll respong directly to your cogent points:
1. What is a typical ONJ fan? And why should anyone care what her fans look like?
2. Usually when you point out deep psychological problems to people with said problems, it's a waste of time. And there's nothing insecure about me wanting to see ONJ naked.
3. Ah, a closet 70s schlock freak who knows all the details. I guess I'd doll myself up like a metalhead if I felt I had to somehow hide this part of myself.
4. Sorry, man -- I was no Manilow fan. Pink Lady and Jeff have more talent than Radiohead? Is this what you're trying to say? Look, I won't argue against the point that the 90s are over-run with worthless shit -- but the 70s were, too.
5. Buy a van. Paint a Molly Hatchet cover on one side. And a Yes cover on the other.
6. If you're truly a decent person, why are you constantly refering to women as whores? Even if they are, wouldn't it be somehow proper not to do this?
7. Do you in fact live in a trailer park? Just curious more than anything.
8. I didn't rent Xanadu -- I OWN it. Did you read the entire article? The last paragraph? In a perverse way, I like Xanadu. But I recognize it for what it is.
P.S. You have a tattoo the video cover on your arm from the movie Xanadu, and you're calling me tasteless? Motherfucker, think it's time to start wearing blind man's glasses and start using a seeing-eye dog.

Now, off to vomit blood onto the good people of Anchorage this fine Sunday morning. Don't blast "All Over the World" too loud this morning in the t. park, Krys, you hear?

Name: The Editors Respond
Subject: Re: p.s.
-- Jan 21, 2001 at 9:41AM
For the record, the LeisureSuit.net editorial staff is responsible for the picture of Gene Kelly's grave, not Mr. Repsher.

Name: krys
Subject: p.s.
-- Jan 21, 2001 at 9:37AM
by the way that is a very tasteless picture of what is supposed to be gene kellys grave but what are you to expect from someone like you

Name: krys
Subject: olivia
-- Jan 21, 2001 at 9:35AM
1.the reason i let you know i was a bassist in a metal band was to make a point that i wasnt the typical olivia fan.and it is not a lie i am actually a pierced tattooed heavy metal bass player.
2. what the hell are you talkin about when you refer to sexual insecurities , youre the one with the obsession of seeing olivia naked.
3. grease was written by bronte woodard the music was by jim jacobs and warren casey and the movie adaptation was by alan carr
4.all the musicians you have mentioned from the 70s have more talent in their pinky that most of the so called artist of today put together, like i said the only reason they are forgotten or became one hit wonders is they didnt jump at every chance they got to show skin to horny perverts (f) or they werent pushed by the record companys as they got older instead they were replaced with younger pretty boys (m)and i know you probally sang a lot of barry manilow songs in your life but just dont realize it , he is responsible for writing a lot of comercial jingles in the 70s like mcdonalds ,dr pepper and others (im a pepper wouldnt you like to be a pepper too)
5. i dont own a van and i dont even like molly hatchet
6. i could care less that people dont worship at the church of olivia , but like i said she has more talent and decency than any of those whores out today
7 .just because i live in alabama and play in a band doesent mean i live in a trailer park.
8. you have the insecurity problem , you rented a movie and thought it suck so you devoted a site in trying to convince everyone to see your point of view and make them believe that it sucks too when it is actually a very good movie. the only problem you have with it is olivia didnt get naked like you wanted so you could jerk off so that convinced you that it sucked, if you wanted a movie to jerk off to you should have went to the adult section instead of pickin up the first movie you saw with a x on the cover (or did you not have proper id). so next time you wanna jerk off rent a porno so you can get your nut and be happy and not try to convince everyone in the world that a movie sucks just because you cant get a nut

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: olivia
-- Jan 20, 2001 at 7:09PM
Krys, do yourself a favor and drag your smug little tattoed ass back to the trailer park that sprung you.

You've got a very bad psychological problem called projection -- meaning you take your own insecurites and project them onto others, preferably people you are in conflict with. So far, we've learned about your sexual insecurites, that you feel inferior in some sense and have to beat people over the head with some manufactured image (heavy metal bass player with tattoos -- wooh! I'm scared!), that you are the one with the soap-opera fan mentality (expressed so well by your bizarre ONJ obssession), and that you really have nothing to say, save that you're offended that everyone doesn't worship at the church of ONJ.

She played a role in Grease where she turned herself into a stereotypical slut to "win her man" -- and if you place responsiblity for that choice on the screenwriter, here's a good question, please don't read the back of the video box: who was the screenwriter for Grease?

You had to have talent to make it in the 70s? Like Donny and Marie? Pink Lady and Jeff? 90% of disco? Scores of forgotten heavy metal, punk and pop bands? One hit wonders like Rupert Holmes and Dan Hill? Barry Manilow? Andy Gibb?

You're deluded -- but that's ok, that's the image you want to present to the world.

By the way, I lied -- I'm not a writer living in Queens. I'm a nun who lives in Anchorage, Alaska, and I go around all day in full KISS/Gene Simmons bat face make-up. Ooga-booga! Aren't you scared? Aren't I special? And I have the Captain and Tenille's faces tattooed on my ass, one on each cheek!

Now, go back to painting that Molly Hatchet album cover on the side of your van, Krys -- and stop trying to argue pop culture by using a mediocre cult movie as the backbone of your point of view. I'd say you should be ashamed of yourself, but something tells me you're too stupid for shame -- a decidely 90s quality that the 70s gave birth to.

Name: krys
Subject: olivia
-- Jan 20, 2001 at 6:06PM
as far as the last 10 minutes of grease goes , olivia did not write the script she was hired to play a part and she went by the script so therefore she was doing the job she was hired to do, had she been asked to get naked for the scene she probally would have turned it down, thats the problem with people like you youre talkin about the movie like it happened in real life , you probally are the type to send wedding and birthday gifts to soap opera stars arent you, no it was a movie unlike the awards shows where the teen sluts choose to practially get naked on the air (theyre there to promote their music not their body).
i lived the 70s too so i know you actually had to have talent to make it in the music buisness unlike today when if youre female all you have to do is show skin , or if youre male either be pretty and able to dance or be depressed and know 3 chords.
oh well opinions are like assholes , everybody has one and most of them stink especially when they come from one.

Name: Baby jess
Subject: kris
-- Jan 20, 2001 at 4:25AM
I like you... and I would like to see your tatoo (hope he's on your arm)! And I don't think you're a nun

Name: Baby-jess
Subject: to Willian S.
-- Jan 20, 2001 at 4:23AM
Everybody want to see ONJ naked, but not in a film... in real life. But she's a real muse so we can't. She's too nice, too kind, and too incredible. I love her, and I'm not gay :-)
PS: Pom Pom I love you too

Name: Fourtrees
Subject: To Krys
-- Jan 19, 2001 at 12:32PM
I found my muse. Neither gay, nor untalented, I found a muse in the song Im Alive and in the Movie. Olivia is one of my biggest inspirations both in the talent and the keeping the clothes on issue. Due to this album I decided to start a band. Unfortunately I surrounded myself with those who would rather get naked and party than those who wanted to sing and play music. After twenty odd years tho' I still connect with the whole "bigger than us and love conquers all ideal" And I still will purchase ONJ and ELO and Bee Gees and all that other 70"s plastic crap without worry about whether I am gay or straight (very straight am I) Good for you Krys if you are living as Eterpe directs and doing the Heavy metal band thing. I envy you. Have about 300+ sets of lyrics some directly inspired by "THAT MOVIE" and THAT CHICK. E mail me. We can discuss the muse.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu
-- Jan 19, 2001 at 7:27AM
Krys, that's funny -- for a "tattooed bass player in a heavy metal band in alabama" (?! -- wasn't that a character in a Steely Dan song?), you sound like a nun. Frankly, I don't care if you're a repressed, untattooed librarian in Butte, Montana. Who cares, I mean aside from you?

As for the accusations leveled against today's teenage "slut" superstars -- rerun the last 10 minutes of Grease to see how Olivia got her man.

Oh, yes, the golden age of the 70s, when life was better and people knew what moral values are. We must have been living in different decades -- then again, I recall people raised in the 50s saying the same things about the 70s that you're now saying about current pop culture. And neither of you are wrong -- but don't give me this crap about the 70s being some golden age of talent. I lived them. I know better.

P.S. I still want to see Olivia naked. Please don't hit me with your bass, you big bad metalhead from alabama. Oh, almost forgot -- with tattoos. Have you thought about sending your reply to Readers Digest's "Life in These United States" section?

Name: krys
Subject: xanadu
-- Jan 19, 2001 at 2:54AM
hello i am a pierced and tattooed (i have the video box art of xanadu tattooed on my arm with 16 others) bass player in a heavy metal band in alabama ,and i think xanadu is one of the best movies ever, olivia has more talent in her big toe than britney fears , christina awfuleria, or any of those no talent teeny boppers out today ,so you didnt like the movie because olivia didnt get naked like those little whores of today thats because she has more class and self respect for herself than that. this world has gotten so bad that all these little tramps gotta act like whores to sell records unlike in the 70s when you relied on talent to sell (and olivia sold a lot) now you dont have to have talent you just gotta look like a slut, thats why olivias music dont sell as well as it used to , because she has some self respect.you seem to have a thing about seeing olivia naked in all you replys to this article, whats wrong you cant get laid and you wanted to watch xanadu and hopefully find a scene to whack off too?
i drove 450 miles in aug. of 99 to see olivia live but i wouldnt walk across the street to see any of those slut teenyboppers that are popular today. and when are you movie critics gonna learn that when you rate a movie as bad all normal people usually love it and when you love a movie and over hype it it usually sucks (like what was that overhyped american beauty shit) there are more olivia movies other than grease and xanadu too and they are all great. if you dont know what they are here they are in order
funny things happen down under (60s)
toomorrow (70)
grease (78)
xanadu (80)
two of a kind (83) w/ john travolta again
a mom for christmas (90)
a christmas romance (94)
its my party (95)
sordid lives (2000)
so before you go saying that olivia was pushing her luck after grease i think you need to check out some of her other movies ,and no shes not naked in any of them but she does have a tattoo and cusses in sordid lives.
OLIVIA & XANADU RULES

Name: baby-jess
Subject: PPS
-- Jan 17, 2001 at 4:19AM
Sorry for the mistakes...

Name: Baby-Jess
Subject: PS
-- Jan 17, 2001 at 4:17AM
Just to make sure everybody anderstand. XANADU's the most 'alive' film I saw !!! Don't your hear it singing :
"I'm alive..."

Name: Baby-Jess
Subject: A pffffffffffffffffft!
-- Jan 17, 2001 at 4:02AM
Perhaps nobody cares about what I think� but in fact: I think! :- )
I totally agree with my little (but not so little) Pom Pom Boy.
He�s totally right and there�s no need to explain why, �cause it�s clear!
Olivia is one of my favourites actrice, except the colour of her hairs.
And XANADU� whoooo what a great film, and what a pleasure. Plenty of all the things everybody likes.
So, why do people say bad thing about Olivia -- her pubic hair might not be blond �cause she isn�t � and about this film? I don�t even understand.
So so so, if someone is reading �tell me why� (music�.)!
That�s all I wanted to say� oh no just a little one more thing: I like Pom Pom Boy very much, so be nice with him, �cause if you don�t I might be really bad.

Name: pompomboy
Subject: In XANADU did KUBLA KAHN a stately pleadure dome decree...
-- Jan 16, 2001 at 12:47PM
4 the gay thing, it's just Olivia is a gay icon, like Madonna, Cher, and that kind of people. It doesn't mean they're gay. & 2 answer 2 JTG, i said that between a lot of things as 1 of the proofs 2 explain that ONJ's career is not over, it didn't start with Grease, & it didn't finish with XANADU, that's all.

Except that, I agree totally with U, JTG, & i think it was just a misunderstanding.

Nicu & Richard S., even if U may not care, I wanted U 2 know that I agree with U.

Name: Richard S.
Subject: Xanadu: the TRUTH.
-- Jan 16, 2001 at 8:23AM
This movie is truly a CLASSIC! I work in television, editing and after effects; and for 1980, the FX were amazing! Very nicely done. The storyline is taken from a classic poem by Coolige: "Kubla Kahn". It was written about a statley pleasure dome called XANADU. The producers for Universal Pictures in 1979/80 took this theme and cashed in on the current discoskating trend plus ONJ and ran with it!
That's all it is: a "feel good" movie of it's time! NOTHING MORE!
STOP reading into it and trashing it! It was never meant to be anything more! It's a fantasy/musical based on a trend of the late 70s/early 80s! Get over yourselves! We should have more movies like this today. . .fresh, innocent, catchy, popular, and cool!

Name: Marina
Subject: PPboys assertion
-- Jan 14, 2001 at 8:41PM
Xanadu is one of the guilty pleasures in life. The crappiness is only transcended by the presence of ONJ and the MUSIC. I have been a big fan for a long time. Her stuff is right next to my other favorite artist, Van Morrison.
And I can't believe I spent an 1.5 hr reading these YAKs. But there's something I am curious about mentioned in the last reply. Am I missing something, Gay!!?? you mean happy? Do you have proof?
If she is why doesn't she come OUT with it? You'd think after CA that fact would just be an inconsequentiality. Seems like a well planned cover-up considering the recent press. If she isn't, shouldn't there be some kind of libel suit against your ass? This really isn't the first time I heard it but I want some convincing facts. Does any girl out there really have a sample of her pubic hair they're hawking? Is it blond? That was very funny by the way even though I am LOYAL fan. I'm sure she would be laughing too...Maybe it was really her...That would be refreshing. Although admitting the gay thing would be more. Put's "Lets get Physical" into a new and different light.

Name: Nicu
Subject: reply to Pompomboy
-- Jan 14, 2001 at 4:58PM
All right, I agree with you. Some stars have longer life others can easily become shooting-stars...now you see them, now you don't. Music has lost the sense of MAGIC, so nowadays stars die even faster. Who cares? Maybe those who wonder what kind of creature has the cretin ideea to shorten Gene Kelly's life, even on a tombstone, for the silly reason that he didn't enjoy a movie...Sorry for comparing Olivia Newton John with BS, God has created each one of us as unique and beyond compare beings, and probably an artist soul feels that more deeply.
Thanks everybody for agreeng with me, or not.

Name: JTG
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 13, 2001 at 4:58AM
Okay...let's be honest here. Who gives a shit if ONJ is gay...the fact is that she is hot as hell...heh..I'd still knock the bottom out of it. I know the story is less than Shakespearian and the special effects aren't up to our now-normal standards, but given the time period in which the movie was made and the fact that musicals were trying to make a comeback, you have to give these people credit for making the effort. Cheesey?...okay, I have to agree with that simply because movie making as a whole has evolved. Many years from now we will find people who say that "The Matrix" is cheesey and we'll all be pissed about it. "Xanadu" has an unbelieveable following. It has become a cult classic just like "The Rock Horror Picture Show" or "Clockwork Orange". I might add that just like all other cult classics, people either love them or hate them...one extreme or the other.

Bottom line: Olivia Newton-John has the looks of a goddess and the voice of an angel and any movie with her in it is worth seeing.

Name: pompomboy
Subject: reply 2 Nicu
-- Jan 11, 2001 at 8:54AM
even if all U said about XANADU is quite positive, i don't think U can compare Britney Spears and ONJ. I don't think a lot of people will remind of her in 2021. Whereas Olivia has still an aura, even if she's not as popular as she used 2 B. She's full of light, she's been a rolemodel 4 millions of young girls, 4 Maddie (as I said BFore), she's still a gay godess (as Brett remarked) & she still has a kind of influence on some of us. She's not dead & it's not only nostalgia (i wasn't even born when XANADU has been released in the theaters...).

i hope U'll answer me, NICU

SHOOPSHOOPNEWYEARKIS SES 2 SCHTROOMPFETTE

Name: Nicu (Romania)
Subject: Yet
-- Jan 9, 2001 at 6:46PM
When you look back to movies made 80 years ago, you'll certainly find lots of things to dislike...The same happend to our friend when renting Xanadu, that he first enjoyed 20 years ago. I remain an ELO and Olivia Newton John supporter, no matter how years have aded to my age. And Xanadu - that movie isn't a masterpiece - but it was a light in my life and that I cannot easily forget. What would people say about Brittany Spears in 2021 ? It's natural & human to improve your standards and to expect more from your favourite stars. It's more important to respect their work and their succes even if they are not among your favourites, you didn't or don't like what they've done in music, movies, literature, arts.
We're only human, after all.

Name: Xanadu
Subject: Olivia
-- Jan 7, 2001 at 4:14AM
May I just say:

Olivia Newton John is my QUEEN MOTHER,

Karen Carpenter is my
QUEEN

and

Brittany Spears is my
PRINCESS

Name: pompomboy
Subject: reply to SCHTROOMPFETTE & BRETT
-- Dec 29, 2000 at 7:05AM
I'm so sad, her loss is a terrible thing. I hope doctors did somethin for her beautiful eyes.
Thank U brett

Suddenly the wheels are in motion

Name: michael beck
Subject: reply 2 "ONJ"
-- Dec 29, 2000 at 6:59AM
the guy (BCoz only a guy can do that, not a girl) who pretended he was Olivia, who thought it was funny talkin bout her passed cancer and then her pubic hair was a STUPIDE JERK !
That's all. People have feelings, U know. Go 2 hell, fuckin bastard.

Name: Schtroompfette
Subject: reply to POM POM BOY
-- Dec 28, 2000 at 3:48AM
His nose's quite awfull. But don't fell sorry for this guy... just fell sorry for Olivia!! She kissed him, and she don't have eyes anymore.
(sorry again for the mistakes, bad english)

Name: Brett
Subject: Best movie of all time
-- Dec 24, 2000 at 10:21PM
Ok... Xanadu may be full of complete cheese but it IS the best movie of all time. Olivia is a goddess(maybe one of our numerous gay goddeses, but a goddess non-the-less). I can not even begin to count how many times i have seen this movie and I have the entire thing memorized.

Many of my friends don't agree with me on this but just go check out what the gay world has to say about this movie(I'm sure many of you are unfortunately straight, so thats why you don't get this movie). We love it! We can remix these songs over and over. Who else could recognize the song Xanadu in a crowded bar just by hearing the tapping of the rollerskates mixed into the beginnig of the song?

I love Olivia and Xanadu!

Name: olivia
Subject: pubic hair
-- Dec 22, 2000 at 11:55PM
hello, this is a message from Olivia Newton-John. Thank you to all of my fans for being so supportive during my recent battle with breast cancer. I know that Xanadu wasn't perhaps the most fascinating movie of all time, I don't even really understand why you are all so interested in talking about it, but I do want to let you all know that I have begun to sell a limited amount of my personal posessions, including pubic hair and thong underwear...please visit my personal website for more information...Love, Olivia

Name: pompomboy
Subject: Michael Beck's nose
-- Dec 20, 2000 at 2:22PM
What do U think about Michael Beck's nose ?

Name: Swan
Subject: Michael Beck
-- Dec 19, 2000 at 8:59AM
What do you mean Michael Beck cannot act if I lived in Ameraica

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: repsher
-- Dec 18, 2000 at 5:53PM
S.S., please show me in earlier Yaks where you clearly designated that you were a college student -- afraid I missed that one.

In the meanwhile -- truce. Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band is worse than Xanadu. There -- feel better now?

Name: stream
Subject: repsher
-- Dec 18, 2000 at 7:54AM
ok you want some ID ok i would be happy to show it to you. How would you like me to show you! How did you know I was in college umm could it be because I told you in one of my comments. I was born Nov.20 1973 I just turned 27...I will be more then happy to prove it.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Repsher
-- Dec 18, 2000 at 6:57AM
S.S., ask yourself how I knew you were in college. When that sort of deductive reasoning becomes obvious, then, too, shall the reasons why never in a million years would I discuss the relative merits/drawbacks of Xanadu with you. 27 years old?! Phew. I want to see some ID!

Name: stream
Subject: Repsher
-- Dec 17, 2000 at 11:51PM
i have sent in two comments and all you can do is trash me.You dont address the issues of my commments.And as far as "the dorm monitor" i have you know that not all college students are teenagers!!!! I am 27 years old and I wanted to go back to school.I dont live in a dorm i live in my own home!!!! and my freind not only is she my friend but i am her godmother and she is a college student as well she is 18.WHY DONT YOU START TO ADDRESS THE ISSUES THAT I HAVE SAID IN MY OTHER COMMENT???? This is a place to speak our minds.Why dont you act like a human being and an adult and address the issues of not only my comments but others.You would not have a site really if it was not for us visiting your site and making comments how about a litte respect.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: REPSHER
-- Dec 17, 2000 at 9:27PM
Look out, everybody! Shit Stream has her friend with her! Look out! Somebody call the dorm monitor -- NOW!

Name: Stream
Subject: REPSHER
-- Dec 17, 2000 at 7:34PM
hey repsher my freind is here and she loves xanadu as well as she says "FUCK YOU YOU WOULD'NT KNOW A GOOD MOVIE IF IT KICKED YOU IN THE ASS" And I dont appreciate what you said about me its not very funny you have nothing better to do then to trash other people.As a matter of fact i am getting a degree in Art History.So if you think I am an ignorant person YOU ARE SO FUCKING WRONG.I usually dont use this kind of language BUT IN YOUR CASE ITS CALLED FOR.You are a oozing ZIT on the face of humanity.You trash people because they like Xanadu.Well i am sure if we all knew your taste in movies we could trash you as well.

Name: everybody
Subject: anything
-- Dec 16, 2000 at 5:39PM
WE LOVE XANADU!!!!

Name: Jack-the-ripper..
Subject: Err... Xanadu ?
-- Dec 16, 2000 at 10:06AM
Hi, I'm also a friend of Pompomboy (So I'm French too, excuse my bad English please..) Unlike my friends, I think that the film is boring (I can feel that somebodies are hating me yet..!) BUT, the music is not bad (I listened it during a week and "I'm aliiiive"... so).
Sorry if I hurt you, but I have enough that all my friends tell me "Xanadu is wonderful !!" : I CAN'T BEAR IT(just the film !), IS THAT CLEAR ?!

Jack-the-ripper-feels-he-is-going-to-be-ripped (gloups...)

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: XANADU & MY BEST FRIEND
-- Dec 14, 2000 at 4:19PM
My best friend and I have a big thing with XANADU. Because we just LUV all is a little romantic, and it's magic, and olivia is wonderful, and gene is the greatest dancer of them all ! I LUV XANADU, & I GIVE A BIG HUG 2 MY BEST FRIEND (SCHTROOMPFETTE), BECOZ SHE'S THE BEST ! AND I GIVE A KISS 2 TANIPOOF

IN XANADU DID KUBLA KAHN A STATELY PLEASURE DOME DECREE...

Name: TanipOOf
Subject: Reply to Schtroompfette
-- Dec 14, 2000 at 10:51AM
I'm Swiss (so, I speak french like you...) and Xanadu is one of the most magical movie that I've seen. Et comme dis Gene Kelly "ce ne sont pas les r�ves qui meurent, c'est nous qui les tuons"!et il a raison!!

Name: Schtroompfette
Subject: Wahou
-- Dec 14, 2000 at 3:46AM
I'm one of "pom pom boy"'s friends and in fact he's totaly right (even if my English is really bad).
Everybody liked Xanadu, and I enjoy to see it again and again... because when we have magic in our hands it's better to use it...
And XANADU, is plenty of this greatful magic that only Olivia, and Gene Kelly could give to a film.
Sorry for the mistakes in my language, (I'm French), but I think the message is here!

Name: pompomboy
Subject: WELCOME 2 XANADU
-- Dec 13, 2000 at 7:16PM
i'm 18 and that movie is older than me. I'm in a country where sometimes it's hard to find stuffs about Olivia, but she's wonderful in that movie. She's beautiful, she sings very well, she has an incredible aura, and everyone like her. I convinced all my friends to see that movie and now, it's our favourite film. When you watch the movie, you realize a lot of things are really "avantgarde" for this time : costums, music, special effects... Don't forget that ONJ is one of Madonna's role-model ! And in fact, I bought the DVD because it was the only way to get the movie and i didn't even have a player... Because with the music, i could feel the magic, and i knew it will be bigger again. Gene is incredible. Just something : will i find someone who'll be able to tell me why the DVD so bad ? Where is the makingof (that already exists), the "magic" music-video, the official program, the original poem, the costums...

COME TAKE MY HAND...

Name: William S. Repsher
Subject: Vote now
-- Dec 13, 2000 at 3:03PM
LSN readers, which is worse: worshippers of the movie Xanadu who have themselves in a tizzy over an admittedly awful-but-fun-in-that-awful way movie, or the many wonderful, eloquent and highly-intelligent hiphop fans who keep clocking in with their earnest and incredibly well-stated analyses of "playa haters" and "juggalos" performing fellatio in various ways.

You make the call!

Name: michelle
Subject: XANADU
-- Dec 13, 2000 at 2:43PM
im 16 and i think the movie is really cool. im into the 70s and 80s stuff and i have the movie and soundtrack to xanadu. you might as well stop fussing about how terrible it is because its here to stay and those who like it can enjoy it while others who dislike it can just shut up about how bad it is because if its so bad then why do you watch it? its not like how much you say its bad will make it dissappear because it was made, its here and you cant make it go away and i think William S. Repsher is the biggest jerk!

Name: William S. Repsher
Subject: Stream?
-- Dec 13, 2000 at 9:15AM
When not viewing Xanadu on DVD, Stream is working on his/her PhD in Molecular Biology and studying the collected works of Plato -- Dano, that is.

Name: Stream
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 13, 2000 at 5:38AM
Ok I think Xanadu is one of the best movies made of its time,its got love magick,GREAT MUSIC.I own Xanadu on DVD and i own the cd.If anyone wants to buy a copy of Xanadu on DVD or VHS you can get it at Amazon.com I would also like to say that what was written at the top of the page was BULLSHIT!!!!!!THEY did not spend the WHOLE movie trying to find a way to make Kira human they did not even try until Sonny came threw the mural to get her back and I MIGHT ADD NEVER ONCE MENTIONING THE WORD HUMAN!!!GET YOUR FACTS OF THE MOVIE STRAIGHT OR DONT EVEN BOTHER TO TALK ABOUT IT!!!are you sure you watched the whole movie or did you just read the back of the box?????

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu
-- Dec 9, 2000 at 8:04AM
Kira, you need more honest friends and a bigger world to live in. Your parents are deranged. Question their world. Put on some rollerskates and skate into a wall.

Name: kira
Subject: xanadu
-- Dec 9, 2000 at 6:36AM
I just loved the movie, my parents named me after the main character: Kira
And I think that the movie was grest, I just don't think you are fair compairissing this movie with the movies that are made now. That's not fair.
And if you don't like it just don't watch it nobody's forcing you.

love kira

Name: kira
Subject: xanadu
-- Dec 9, 2000 at 6:31AM
have you got no good taste, the movie was wonderfull, i loved it.
It was just great and i have great taste.

Name: Dan
Subject: Movie Poster
-- Dec 7, 2000 at 1:14PM
Does anyone know where I can get a mint condition movie poster of Xanadu?

Name: Seth
Subject: "Magic"
-- Dec 5, 2000 at 8:16AM
Anyone know a website I can find chords or tablature to the song "Magic" from Xanadu? Email me at Lqdsun@aol.com

Name: Lou
Subject: xanadu
-- Dec 5, 2000 at 4:37AM
Olivia was my first idol and still is after all these years. I have 4 copies of the soundrack and have now got my children lovin the movie.
Aussie,Aussie,Aussie
Oi,Oi,Oi

Name: desi
Subject: xanadu
-- Dec 5, 2000 at 12:26AM
ROLLER SKATES, i mean come on!!!! xanadu didnt need a plot! with everyone on rollerskates it just made its self!!!!
if you hate xanadu you are obviously NOT american

Name: Stephanie
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 4, 2000 at 3:49AM
This is a fabulous musical. The music is it's soul. The plot, while admittedley circuitous, comes together in the end. Sonny is an artist and Danny is a builder: he creates the club and he designs the interior. They realize both of their dreams through Xanadu....and Kira. The real question is who is the 'waitress'? Opinions...

Name: Aundrea
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 28, 2000 at 10:41AM
Xanadu is my favorite movie of all time. You can't compare a movie that was made in the 80's with movies from today. Appreciate it for what it was!

Name: Sandi
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 26, 2000 at 6:14PM
I was like 10 yrs old when I saw this movie and yes I did like it , but now that I'm older I decided to watch it again and what a load of trash.
Who in there right mined could come up with such bullshit!!!
Olivia Newton-John went tooooo far.

Name: Corey
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 22, 2000 at 1:30PM
ELO came out with Discovery (1979) before Xanadu (1980). In 1981, they released the album TIME which had the single "Hold On Tight To Your Dreams". They just released FLASHBACK - a box set. One track of note is Xanadu, with Jeff Lynne, not Olivia as lead vocal.

Name: Jennifer
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 20, 2000 at 7:19PM
I loved Xanadu, it's one of my favorite films, I am 26 and appreciate the creative side or the movie. It did have a plot - just as the movie City of Angeles reflects the "Xanadu" of today. But Xanadu was the roller disco club, which most overlook. By the way it's considered a musical.

Name: Stanley
Subject: Foiled
-- Nov 14, 2000 at 12:59PM
Hmmm.....somehow I didn't think anyone would believe that lot....still, it brightened up someone's day laughing at it all. Aren't you guys suprised that you got so many replies about this film?

Name: William S. Repsher
Subject: Got it right
-- Nov 9, 2000 at 10:27AM
Stanley, I don't normally advodate people to smoke crack cocaine, but after reading that impassioned defense on the "depth" of Xanadu, I recommend you get yourself a gigantic rock in your bowl and smoke that baby down to gunky black residue.

What next? The relationship between James Joyce's Ulysees and Roller Boogie?

Name: Stanley
Subject: Get it right
-- Nov 9, 2000 at 10:15AM
Well well well I thought that I was alone in still watching Xanadu. Admittedly a bit cheesy in parts but a superb film. The soundtrack is one of my favourite albums and I have it on all formats. The video is cool and I have a tape copy from what I believe to be the only time the film was shown on UK TV, and I have almost worn it out... (does anyone know where I can get it these days?)
Anyhow, it appears to me that many people do not see the depth of the plot - many refuse to accept there is any depth to the plot; but those who have watched the film many times and read Kubla Khan will wonder......was the point of the film Danny Maguire finding his own Xanadu and actually opening a new club? Or was it Sonny Malone finding his Xanadu and having the confidence to achieve it after Kira when he meets the gorgeous waitress in the closing scene who looks JUST like the picture he draws in the first scene and throws out the window saying "ah what the hell, guys like me shouldn't dream anyway." Bear in mind that this shows his lack of self confidence and the picture can be observed be blown to the picture of the Muses (which sonny painted....check it out when he says "I paint his van, I paint someones Mural, and I paint Simpson's albumn covers, then, when I finally quit to freelance, not only do I almost starve to death, but I can't figure out what I want to do!") Notice how although we know who he paints everything else for, we never find out who he painted the Mural for......sounds a bit suss doesn't it? Anyhow, we can also know this because he knows precisely where to find Kira when she returns to Mount Helicon.
See the plot really is very deep - there are hundreds of annurisms in the plot which many people do not spot - like the Nine Sisters albumn featuring Kira on the cover - Nine Sisters - Nine Sister Muses. Lots of little things like this abound in the film and every scene serves a purpous to the plot. Many folks percieve little or no plot, but in reality the plot is far too subtley presented for people who only look on the surface to spot.
And the biggest question of them all........did Kira remain forever or did she go back in the closing scenes? Or was SHE the waitress?..... Questions abound and the film leaves the inquisitive mind with lots to wonder about...

Xanadu is a true classic in almost every respect. The film surely must have a cult status by now or be about to become suddenly very stylish again - it is a truly superb creation.

Name: Me
Subject: :)
-- Oct 29, 2000 at 8:41AM
I skate better

Name: satan
Subject: A message from Hell
-- Oct 23, 2000 at 9:21AM
Xanadu was one of my best creations!

Xanadu was to the 80's as Showgirls was to the 90's. I can't BELIEVE that anyone takes those movies seriously enough to critique them. They are hysterical, brilliant trash. And the songs, well, BRILLIANT. Just try and stop singing them (that's a special trick of mine).

The best is watching Kira on roller skates. Miss Piggy never looked better.

I'm so pleased to have Gene Kelly in hell with me. We have Xanadu continuously playing for all to watch.

Come to me OLIVIA!

Name: Tom Gilligan
Subject: XANADU
-- Oct 23, 2000 at 1:06AM
This movie is so bad, it's good! It is sometimes played as part of The Wonder Bar's (New York) summer cult movie festival. It drew a big crowd the last time I saw it there and people watching it just cracked the fuck up!

How can anyone resist all those muses popping out of an L.A. mural, completely in awe of their new human bodies! HYSTERICAL!!!

Name: eris
Subject: hold up!!!
-- Oct 21, 2000 at 8:39PM
shamble of a plot line ,
bad excuse to see gene kelly where the hell do you get this write a page about xanadu and say how much it stinks!
i LOVED that movie!

Name: William S. Repsher
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 20, 2000 at 11:54AM
Lee, if you're mentioning Don Arden, you must be legit. Not just ELO, but he managed Black Sabbath, Roy Wood, the Small Faces, etc. He was once accused of having some hired goons hanging Robert Stigwood (the Bee Gees manager out a window until he shit his pants. THis man is a terror -- and his daughter is, too, from what I've heard, Ozzie Osbourne's manager.

But look at what you've helped to create! Look ... and weep! And then pray for us, pray very hard! Satan has a special place in hell for you for your role in creating Xanadu! Repent now!

Name: Lee Kramer
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 20, 2000 at 9:32AM
I was the exec-producer
and the whole experience was hell on wheels.Humerous to see your comments ! Producers Joel Siver and Larry Gordon were total assholes and Don Arden ELO manager ? Help
me......I can't breath....!

Name: Esteban
Subject: XANA-DOODLE-DO
-- Oct 12, 2000 at 11:30AM
All this civility is starting to sound like a Vice Presidential debate or something! But I agree with you... FLASHBACK is going to be great...at least 6 previously unreleased tracks, plus others that have never before been available on CD. With all the Roy Wood re-issues, it's a great time to be an ELO fan. Who knows, maybe Jeff Lynne and ONJ could hook up for a duet or re-make of some of her other XANADU songs...as long as it's not that putrid Tubes number!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: XANA-DON'T
-- Oct 10, 2000 at 10:45PM
What's this? A rational Xanadu fan? You're in the wrong place, mac. And, yes, i got my ELO chronology mixed up in terms of albums -- someone else pointed that out to me about 4,000 Yaks ago, if you get the urge to scroll down and see just out of place you are.

This Flashback thing sounds like it's going to be a keeper.

Name: Esteban
Subject: XANA-DON'T
-- Oct 10, 2000 at 12:17PM
I laughed at most of your article...I even laughed WITH some of it. Yes, XANADU is dreadful. But it's dreadful in such a way as to be worth watching occasionally...sort of like a NASCAR crack-up. The music is a lot better than most will admit, especially the ELO portion. If "I'm Alive" or "The Fall" were on any other album, they would be considered ELO classics. And John Lennon himself loved "All Over the World." "Don't Walk Away" and "Xanadu" were massive hits in the UK. So, let's not just brush off ELO's tracks here. In fact, Jeff Lynne is re-making the "Xanadu" track for ELO's upcoming FLASHBACK album. By the way, to correct some mis-information in your article, ELO's album DISCOVERY was BEFORE the XANADU film, not afterwards. After XANADU, ELO went on to make three very fine albums that were most assuredly not disco. But, rather than defend ELO further, I'll respond to one pretty humorous side note that you mentioned...the career of Michael Beck. He actually did a very good job playing a really, really evil character on the hit 80s TV show, IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT. Well, Mr. Repsher, my hat is off to you. I am really amazed that you were able to wring so much verbage out of a 20-year-old mediocre film.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Jeff Lynne in NOT Xanadu
-- Oct 8, 2000 at 7:58AM
I'm still waiting for something really ugly to happen -- like someone making a roller disco version of Eldorado, starring Alyssa Milano and Brad Pitt, with Tom Jones in the Gene Kelly role. Rest assured, if that happened, I would stay -- and not be back.

Name: Casey McCammon
Subject: Re: Jeff Lynne in NOT Xanadu
-- Oct 8, 2000 at 12:04AM
Wow, I have been thouroughly rebuked! I apologize for my rash judgement of your personal opinion of ELO's music. I can understand how some people might consider ELO's music to "suck" after Out of the Blue. Jeff did seem to lose interest in the band after that point (although TIME is my persoanl favorite album). It is good to know that you have seen the "better" side of ELO showcased in their earlier albums. I suppose my comments were geared more to those who have ONLY heard the Xanadu-ish ELO and automatically shun them as a has-been disco band. I have the utmost respect for Jeff's musical abilities, and he continues to impress me. As a fan, I assume you are aware of the upcoming release of "Flashback", a 3-CD compilation of Jeff's favorite songs, plus some unreleased ones. He is also including a new recording of Xanadu, in which he sings the vocals - I'm sure you will LOVE that one! :) And, hey, I'm sure that Jeff Lynne's shit smells like roses.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Jeff Lynne is NOT Xanadu
-- Oct 7, 2000 at 5:48PM
Casey, I own every album ELO ever made, and then some. They sucked, big time, after Out of the Blue -- and I'm a fan. I don't need to do anymore "research" on ELO -- I worshipped them as a teenager and got the scratchy old albums to prove it.

I think what you have to do is recognize that Jeff Lynne's shit stinks -- just like yours or mine. I think you ought to read my ELO story here on Leisure Suit -- don't know exactly where it is on the sight, but if you go the Features section and search my last name, you should be able to turn it up fairly quickly.

Nothing worse than humorless fans, man!

Name: Casey McCammon
Subject: Jeff Lynne is NOT Xanadu
-- Oct 7, 2000 at 1:42PM
I love how the only way
critics think they can
earn a living is by actually
"critisizing" anything that
they see. "Oh No!, you say!
"You are STEREOTYPING!!!!!"
Well, that is exactly what this
person has done on this review.
The comments on the musical genius
Jeff Lynne disgust me. Do not
think that just because Jeff
and ELO contributed a few songs
to this soundtrack that they
become an embodiment of the movie.
It was a time when that music
was popular, and though not
the best music of ELO's career, is
still not that bad. (Better
than the garbage on the flip-side
od the record). I just ask that in the
future, critics don't assign the
movie (and it's non-success)
to ELO and Jeff Lynne. Try
a little research and discover
the REAL ELO. In other words,
B.X. (before xanadu).

Name: Andrea
Subject: well, well
-- Oct 5, 2000 at 9:43PM
I have to admit, your response to my email was
quite prompt. More so than i ever expected.
In fact, i never thought I'd hear from the
author when i wrote it. I apologise for my
rudeness, but from the way you talk, I don't
think you have a problem with it. I just
feel strongly about protecting something dear
to my heart, of course I know that my writing
this does nothing to protect it. And, i do
agree that the film is quite childishly
entertaining, but that's the innosence of it.
And perhaps, if i hadn't loved it so much in
my youth, and seen it for the first time
recently, I would respond the same.

signed,

taken aback

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: I strongly disagree
-- Oct 5, 2000 at 9:05PM

My quandary: how to get angry with angry Xanadu fans. It's like calling Mickey Mouse fans assholes -- it makes me feel weird. Get even madder, Andrea, work with it! And my humblest apologies for not conducting deeper research. And silly me, basing my Ph.D. on the movie. harumph, indeed.

Name: Andrea Wilmoth
Subject: I strongly disagree
-- Oct 5, 2000 at 6:48PM
I am saddened by your
lack of imagination on
the part of criticism.
I grew up with this
film, and know it by
heart, while loving it
by heart. And by the
way, the "L.A. dance
hall" you are
referring to was not
that. It was a wrestling
arena. Just a little
tip if you want to
really do some research.
I also own the CD and
happen to adore it. ELO
was a wonderful band and
a 'critic' like you
should rethink his
judgment of a film he
once enjoyed so much.
It exudes a magic that
i have not seen
recaptured by a film.

no thanks,

an angry reader

Name: Billy
Subject: william@wdallas.fsbusiness.co.uk
-- Oct 1, 2000 at 6:09PM
Xanadu was a dreadful film but as a 14 yr old as was totally in love with Olivia, even to this day I adore her-not sexual I am a gay man with partner of 10 yrs. There is something magical about Olivia and I think it shines through. I believe there were production difficulties and even Olivia was cheesed off with it all. The music is still excellent and continues to be performed by Olivia so there are some good things to be said. Total escapism it was, didn't pretend to be anything else...

Name: jackie
Subject: jackieloeb@hotmail.com
-- Sep 30, 2000 at 3:59AM
Dear Edward G,
You are very kind , but I know not how to get in contact with you. Actually a friend has just owned up to having a copy of the sheet music, but if I am unable to get a hold of it, it would be fabulous if you could fax it to me, the only thing is, I'm in Sydney, Australia and I wouldn't want you spending any money faxing it to me.NOt sure what your email is??????

Name: edward g.
Subject: Re: sheet music
-- Sep 29, 2000 at 4:44AM
When Xanadu came out I was one of those that fell in love with it and bought everything Xanadu related! I have a few of the theatre posters and also the original sheet music for all the songs! I would gladly fax some to you if you would like.
Please contact me.

Name: Edward G.
Subject: In Xanadu did kubla-khan..
-- Sep 29, 2000 at 4:33AM
I remember going to the theatre at age 17 and seeing the movie poster for Xanadu...I thought it was soooo cool looking!I never saw "Grease" or ever heard of "E.L.O." but when I was watching this movie I thought..this is such a nice clean movie! Just like the majority here I went out and bought the album right after the movie! I really felt sad it didn't do very well; from all the comments I read here it seems that for some reason not enough exposure was given to this movie that I really love!

Name: jackiejackie
Subject: sheet music
-- Sep 28, 2000 at 8:30AM
Dear all,
I am desperately after the sheet music for the song ' Xanadu '. It is no longer in print and I just thought perhaps someone might know where I can get hold it. I MUST HAVE IT!!!!!!NEED IT FOR AN AUDITION.

Name: xanadu1951
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 28, 2000 at 1:00AM
Sept. 28, 11:51PM
Haven't you ever watched the old "classic" musicals of the 30's and 40's? Can you honestly say any of these plot lines are any deeper or better written than 'Xanadu'? The point of a musical is not to make some earth shaking statement, it is escapism for the sake of entertainment. And if looking at a young ONJ, and listening to sugar-sweet ELO music isn't entertainment, then such a thing doesn't exist. If you must denegrate such selfish pleasure to placate your guilt, by all means, do so; know, however, why you are doing it. Just as the Busby Berkley extravaganzas will live on for their 'feel-good' entertainment value, so will 'Xanadu'.

Name: Elektrolokomotive
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 27, 2000 at 11:31PM
OK, the movie wasn't so great. ONJ was one of the biggest babes of the early 80's, especially to a hormonally charged 18 year old. As a major ELO fan, the soundtrack was pretty good; not Jeff's best efforts, but fine anyway. I still can't figure out why they only included the track "Drum Dreams" on the B side of the "I'm Alive" single. If anyone has this track, I'd love to hear it again. Lost my scratchy 45s years ago.

Name: erok
Subject: xanadu
-- Sep 27, 2000 at 4:18PM
Dude, this movie wasn,t ''THAT''bad, i mean come on it was a minimalist escapist story written in the late 70,s when movies didn,t take themeselves so seriously! as a writer and a critic i am positive that the both of us can name several 'FAR WORSE' pieces of crap disguised as movies from the computer generated hightech 1990,s. sure xanadu isn,t great, it,s not supposed to be, its just good oldfashioned escapism mixed together with a soundtrack thats really not that bad. Take a look at the flaming pieces of poop that was ''LOST IN SPACE' [1998] and STARTREK INNSURECTION' and then get back with me on how bad xanadu was!

Name: Nikolai
Subject: I like it... but I don't know why.
-- Sep 27, 2000 at 12:06PM
I can't prove it, but Olivia Newton-John cast a spell on me with her genuine sweetness and devastatingly powerful feminine charm when I was about 8 years old. Before I had a chance to get back to normal I was hurried off to see Xanadu. Now, I'm stuck. In a small corner of my mind, Xanadu patiently sits there, occasionally requesting that I stop by for a visit. Embarrassing, but truth is frequently so. Why fight it? Olivia is always a delight to watch in this absurd, goofy, yet dreamy film. Is it the music? The glowing lights? The simplistic nature of the dialogue? The 80's-ness? I don't know... I have no idea. Somehow it works for me! Apparently it does for you, too.

www.nikolai.org

Name: Tonia
Subject: Looking
-- Sep 20, 2000 at 12:57PM
I am looking to own Xanadu. I was wondering if anyone could tell me where I might find it?
I watched it about 12 or 13 years ago and loved every minute of and i want my children to experance it too.
Thank you for you time.

Name: Julie
Subject: Bad movie/great memories
-- Sep 17, 2000 at 1:48AM
I recently rented Xanadu after 20 years. I saw it twice in the movie theater when I was 10 years old, and haven't seen it since. When you are 10, you tastes are greatly different than say, when you are 30. I remember staring at the pictures on the Xanadu album while the stereo blasted "all over the world". (one of my favorites). I realized how terrible the movie was, how flimsy the storyline, and utterly horrible the acting. But I loved every single minute of it. Watching Xanadu is like eating a heaping bowl of Haagen Dazs icecream. You know you shouldn't, but you can't help yourself. Part of it's 'charm' is that it brings back so many memories of my childhood. Olivia Newton John was and still is my idol. I wanted to "be" her. I thought she was the most beautiful woman and she sang like a dream. Ever since she appeared in Grease, I followed her every move, and while not all of her moves have been in her favor, you can't help but still love her. Xanadu is indeed a bad movie. But, I am proud to say that I am buying the movie and soundtrack tomorrow, so I can guiltily sing all the way to work.

Name: Dana
Subject: Why I like Xanadu
-- Sep 14, 2000 at 3:20AM
I've always liked Xanadu. Of course I like many of the things from the 70's that are just too "uncool" for all those hip people of today to admit they enjoy! Besides being a devoted ONJ fan (TRULY one of the finest voices to grace this world) I like Xanadu because it is a very "different" kind of movie. It is so off-the-wall - who would have thought that THE Gene Kelly would be dancing around in a movie with ONJ at that point in time? Not only that, but they looked damn good doing it! The movie is also full of songs which span an interesting and varied genre. People who don't appreciate and enjoy the incredible diversity available on the entertainment menu (of which Xanadu is an item,) lead pretty boring lives. Open your eyes and broaden your horizons!

Name: Sheri
Subject: I love this movie.
-- Sep 13, 2000 at 11:05AM
I was 15 when this movie came out origionally and I had the soundtrack for about 10 years. Where the record went I don't know, but to this day I still have the cover. I think this is one of the best musicals I have seen in a long time but where I live it's not available to rent. I can can understand William's comments about the movie as my husband feels the exact same way. This is not to say that I agree with him. This is not a movie I would get to watch if I owned it as I don't want to damage my husband's tender sensibilities. This is a movie I would love to have my kids watch, though, so they could get to know the "finer things in life".

Name: Kristin
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Sep 11, 2000 at 4:43PM
I find it very sad to see someone who refuses to see the magic in a story. Xanadu, unlike your writing, will endure.

Name: Tony
Subject: A great movie I'll never forget!
-- Sep 9, 2000 at 10:38PM
I disagree, totally, about William Repsher comment about this movie being soo awful.
This movie was one of the best classics ever made, in my opinion. The soundtrack was fantastic and I understood the movie the first time I saw it.
I even went and paid to see it over again in the theaters.
Those who dislike this movie don't possess that little thing
many of us take for granted: DREAMS!! and the appreciation
fantasy. I was 10 when it first came out and I can watch the movie over and over again and
never get tired of it. I'm 30 now and it's one of those movies
that makes you feel good!!!!

Name: Laura
Subject: Xanadu: DON'T RIP ON THIS MOVIE!
-- Sep 7, 2000 at 2:15PM
I'm a 24-year-old that was raised on Bing Crosby, Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, Fred Astaire, John Wayne, David Niven, Cappucine, Robert Wagner, Natalie Wood, Rosalind Russel, Coral Browne, Sandra Dee, Bobby Darin, just to name a few.

First of all, if you knew anything about Greek Mythology you would understand that the Nine Sisters depicted in this movie are supposed to be the nine Muses. Gene Kelly reprised his role as Danny Maguire from the 1945 movie "Cover Girl" with Rita Hayworth, in which he was a nightclub owner. You have to be an old movie buff to know some of the things involved in this movie.

It's the 40's meets the 80's (as it says on the back of the box -- and that does not do a good job of explaining the movie). If you know what to look for and understand what's going on, you'll really appreciate this GREAT movie. A lot of people (if any) didn't "get" this movie when it came out, or even 20 years later for that matter. That's why it bombed in theaters and was panned -- big time. This movie should not fall into some bottomless pit of cheeseball movies -- if anything, it should be loved for the music, and Gene Kelly (in his 60's) on roller skates.

This movie was a date test. One night early in the relationship we would sit and watch a bunch of older movies(like Rome Adventure or North to Alaska), and this would be one of them. If the guy asked intelligent questions and didn't bash it, I would date him again. My husband loves this movie.

I like cheesy, feel good movies (especially musicals), and this is a great example.

Name: Amyellyn
Subject: Another Reason to Love Xanadu
-- Sep 6, 2000 at 1:07PM
It's all about the supporting cast. I mean, the presence of Sandahl Bergman is enough to catapult this movie into Zen territory, but when you add Fee Waybill and the rest of the Tubes along with Wilfred Hyde-White and Coral (last wife of Vincent Price) Browne...hell, it just doesn't get any better. Pour a Harvey's Bristol Cream and kick back for an evening of pure, unadulterated cheese.

As for "what the 70s were really like," I suggest the sublime "Over the Edge." For a much worse movie musical, "At Long Last Love" or "Lost Horizon."

And I DO know all the movies you mentioned. I do need help, followed by a re-viewing of "Phantom of the Paradise."

Name: Kevin
Subject: Should have been one of the top 100!
-- Sep 6, 2000 at 3:05AM
This movie was a classic! Ok, maybe not. It was for me. I remember watching it when i was very young and this was one of those flicks you could pop into the VCR and everyone could watch. So the plot was baseless, i could name dozens of new movies that are worse and yet they gross hundreds of millions of dollars...And the animated scene?! how many of you don't get that little flutter in your heart when you see the olivia-bird hug the sonny bird in the middle of the air?? Yeah, you know what i'm talking about - admit it!

Name: Tim
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 4, 2000 at 5:03PM
I liked Xanadu, it's nice to watch something on TV that's not violent. I guess miracle's do happen. if only in the movie's.

Name: Greyson
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 4, 2000 at 3:23AM
I don't care, I still love "Xanadu"!

Wasn't Andy Gibb originally supposed to play the part of Sonny Malone? They dressed Beck up in Gibb's "signature" shirt, vest and white trews.

Name: Becky
Subject: weddings too!
-- Sep 3, 2000 at 9:59PM
Ahhh memories...would you believe I had the song "Whenver I'm Away From You" played at my wedding a couple years ago? Still have the record too!

Name: Jim
Subject: It was 1980... get over it!
-- Sep 1, 2000 at 8:58PM
Cheese pours out of my VCR everytime I play it, but it's still one of my favourites.
As for the soundtrack... I am one of the biggest ELO fans around, and while it's not my favourite album of time... it was the first I bought.

... ah, memories :)

Name: dave
Subject: brilliant sountrack
-- Sep 1, 2000 at 5:00PM
i can still remember the film i thought it was great and olivia didnt she look great in the film.i still watch the video now and again
does anybody know where i can get some desktop wallppaper of kira (olivia newton john)

Name: Heather
Subject: Best Soundtrack Ever
-- Aug 30, 2000 at 2:47PM
I can remember seeing Xanadu with my mother when it came out in 1980... and I was only 5 years old! I can also remember nagging her to death to buy the soundtrack... which I listened to over and over again. I still have that record... and actually listened to the cd on the way to work this morning! It will always remain one of my favorite records of all time. Every time I see a used copy of the vinyl in a record store, I'm compelled to buy it! I think I must have 5 or 6 copies of it to date!

Name: 22ninobizarro@usa.net
Subject: xanadu
-- Aug 30, 2000 at 12:05AM
vi xanadu 259 veces en video,soy fanatico sano de elctric light orchestra,, las letras del soundtrack tienen un mensaje superior a la epoca, al tiempo, la felicidad no existe y alli en la magia del ser interno se encuentra eso y mas , la fe es tan infinita que solo el logro resulta lo magico y de alli xanadu, magia fue nominada al grammy, devio tener segunda parte pero el mundo se le olvido so�ar, aun oigo discovery, en estos ultimos meses ese disco sello mi nueva vida, last tarin to london aun se trasmite por radio, midnight blu me enloquese, cada quien escoje su modo de vida denle gracias a la vida por que se puede hacer algo, cuantos no pudieron,jet recor no perdio dinero, ni el arte tampoco ..gracias mi direccion es saman de guere calle nuevo mundo numero 51, maracay estado aragua, venezuela sur america, y mi pagina web es 22ninobizarro@usa.net

Name: michele
Subject: XANADU
-- Aug 28, 2000 at 2:10PM
okay so Xanadu did not win any oscars but come on it's not the worst movie ever made. Xanadu has an innocence to it which some of todays movies sadly lack. Xanadu has a magically quality to it. If for a while the viewer can escape into a land of make believe then I for one don't see it as a bad thing. The clothes may look naff nowadays but then look what everyone was wearing in the 80's. For every person that hates this film there is someone out there, believe me, that loves it. So come on give Olivia and the gang a break. But you've got to admit the music is still fab.

Name: jessica
Subject: xanadu
-- Aug 28, 2000 at 10:03AM
......anyone who ever saw the movie at one point or another in their lives really, really, wanted to be able to go thru that wall...Ya know? The music was catchy, the clothes were cute, and it was 1980. I can honestly say it was the last "album" I bought. And about 3 times a year (usually drunk) I play it....and I LOVE IT!!!!!!

Name: the man
Subject: xanadu
-- Aug 24, 2000 at 10:25AM
in 1980, the thought that i would be sitting at a computer thinking about xanadu never even occured to me. it's amazing!

Name: William S. Repsher
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 24, 2000 at 9:03AM
Victoria, I have a movie that better indicates how it "really was" in the 70's: Heavy Metal Parking Lot.

Check it out:

http://www.planetkrulik.com/hmpl.htm

I'd point to something like this as a more reliable indicator of how life really was at that time.

Name: Victoria
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 24, 2000 at 2:31AM
Bill, you really are hilarious in your dipiction of Xanadu ( I enjoyed reading your artical and got a few good chuckles in),
but, don't
look at it so cynically.
I agree, the movie isn't a "2 thumbs up" by most poeples standards but, when watching this
again, it reminded me of how fun and innocent it was in the late 70's/early 80's and how it almost wisked me
away into another time warp. It was fun to escape for an hour or so and the music was really good
for it's time. It played a role in all of our lives and I hope everyone, young and old, get a chance to
enjoy it with an open mind. True it's corny mixed with fantasy and funky costumes, but, keep an open mind and plug it in
during your next 70's party. It will be a hit for sure.
stroll down memory lane and remember back when....

Name: Cameron
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 22, 2000 at 4:48PM
Okay,before reading these reviews I thought I was the ultimate dag, you have all proven me wrong but I can see why everyone loved it, its innocence and music is great-really its the only thing that makes the film. It's just as well Livvy is beautiful and she can sing because her acting causes me more pain than Pamela Anderson without good lighting and make up.

Name: Alex
Subject: Xanadu Allure
-- Aug 17, 2000 at 7:54PM
Xanadu is more of an encapsulation of an innocent, spectacular concept of freedom and adventure, rather than a film of cinematic structure. Technically, the movie is flawed: the editing is horrible, the dialogue laughable, but sweet. It's this quirkiness that makes the film endearing and capturing of the halcyon late '70s - early '80s. Xanadu is supposed to exist as an idea if anything: a raucous, fun carefree throwing off of controls and authority. In this nature, it is congruent with it's shoddy technical form and flippant character dialogue; the viewer is to seperate scenes, as the power of the imagery of the film is the most significant aspect of Xanadu. Although corny at times, this movie will always have a place in my heart. And, the soundtrack is good if you give it a chance. Certainly there are some unforgettable songs here, especially the title track. It's just a charming movie!

Name: tony
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 17, 2000 at 4:27PM
I used to love that movie when I was a kid.Now that I am older I couldn't sit through the whole thing. But it is an original and will go down in history as a disco fantasy that was a lot of fun in the 70s. The 70s are over. Everyone should see this movie at least once.

Name: LAYNE
Subject: XANADU
-- Aug 7, 2000 at 10:29PM
I HAVE TO AGREE, THE MOVIE WAS PRETTY BAD, BUT EVERY THREE YEARS OR SO I DO RENT IT, AND FRIENDS AND I WATCH IT WITH CULT STATUS. I AM 35, AND THE SUMMER IT CAME OUT WAS ALSO THE SUMMER OF CADDYSHACK AND OTHER LANDMARK FILMS. I REMEMBER IT WELL, PLAY THE ALBUM EVERY NOW AND THEN, AND HAVE NO REGRETS. I'M ALSO GLAD TO SEE SO MANY PEOPLE WHO WERE NOT EVEN BORN
LOVING THE MOVIE. THANKS,LAYNE IN CHARLOTTE,NC

Name: Kate
Subject: I love xanadu!
-- Aug 6, 2000 at 4:55PM
I have only recently discovered the film Xanadu and I was cynical.At sixteen years old the idea of O.N.J prancing around in roller-skates didn't appeal to me.
However, I was converted and by the end I was singing along to the cheery score.I then went out and bought the soundtrack.
Its not often that a film has no sex or swearing in it, so I highly regard Xanadu as entertaining escapism!
Anyone who criticises Xanadu or the stars are obviously taking it too seriously.I also think that their missing the point, it is a feel good romance,so what if it's a little corny.If you want hard hitting go and watch Reservoir Dogs!
I will always consider Xanadu to be one of the best musicals......ever!!! :-)

Name: Steve
Subject: Best Movie Ever!
-- Aug 5, 2000 at 6:09AM
I remember seeing it in the theater in 1980 and wanting to see it over and over.
I got my first VCR in 1981 and Xanadu was the first movie I ever bought.
I have gone thu a few copies of it over the years including the Laser disk and now the DVD.
Years ago I remember reading a review of Xanadu in the paper and the critic saying it was the second worst movie he ever saw.
I loved that review because it showed me I didnt have to follow the trend and say my favorite movie was somthing like Casablanca or Gone With The Wind.
O.N.J. on skates will always beat out Scarlet in a hoop skirt! :)

Name: Katie
Subject: Olivia the great!
-- Aug 4, 2000 at 11:31PM
All of you people are talking about how you saw it when you were a kid and loved it. Well I am a kid, and, true, I do love Xanadu. I am only 12, and yet Olivia Newton-John is my one and only role model, (and I also think John Travolta is sooooo hot, but I think him and Olivia were meant for each other. (That's probably why I like Two of a Kind so much, hee-hee) Olivia is so awesome, I have 8 cd's, all her music, and 3 of them are soundtracks. I guess I became obsessed with Olivia about half a year ago when I saw Grease. I have to go now, take care!

Name: jason
Subject: surrealism
-- Aug 3, 2000 at 2:30PM
When I first saw Xanadu in the early 80s, I guess I was too young to understand the film. Over the last couple of years I have revisited several times and have come to appreciate it for its strangeness, irregardless of acting quality, writing, etc.
There is a strong feeling, at least for me, of dream - like quality running thru the film. An obvious remark, but it seems to be characteristic of the late 70s - early 80s in its emphasis on spacey fantasy elements- in the electronic-based music, use of strange lighting in mythic scenes. I remember similar elements and resulting feelings as a kid, at local skating rinks, where the low, strange lighting and music seemes to be completely separate from any connection to the outside world. Anyway, not to ramble on, but on some level of fantasy, it seems to work- while being a very entertaining film for many other reasons.

Name: DrStrangeDOS
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 28, 2000 at 12:06AM
I thoroughly enjoy this film! 'Livia in her white flowing dress, Gene Kelly dancing. No explosions, death scenes, and I can enjoy watching it with kids and not have 4 letter expelatives littering the dialog.
Just a fun movie! Any guy that doesn't like 'Livia singing on rollerblades needs a mega dose of testosterone
A great rainy day flic, pop it in the vcr and have some good clean fun

Name: Charlo
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jul 19, 2000 at 12:52AM
I remember seeing Grease and then shortly after Xanadu I was 10 when Xanadu came out and thought it was the best movie ever (at the time) and it turned me onto disco and dance music ever since BUT I agree NOW it is a cheezy movie but I guess its sort of retro. Anyway, you mentioned Times Square. I have been looking for this movie for years. I live in Canada and would love to get my hands on a copy of it.

Name: COLIN
Subject: XANADU
-- Jul 18, 2000 at 4:18PM
I LOOK AND READ ABOUT
THE STORYS ABOUT THE
FILM XANADU,AND I CANT
BELIEVE SOME PEOPLE
DONT LIKE IT.YES I DO SAY I
UNDERSTAND THEM.BUT
MYSELF.I LOVED IT.HOW DO
I GET HOLD OF A COPY AS I
HAVE TRIED WITHOUT ANY
LUCK.I COULD SIT AND
WATCH IT OVER AND OVER
AGAIN.OLIVIA NEWTON JOHN
LOOKED OUT OF THIS
WORLD IN THE MOVIE.THE
POINT OF THE MOVIE WAS
ON THE ASPECTS OF THE
SAYING NEVER GIVE UP
HOPE.WITHOUT ARE HOPE
AND DREAMS WHERE
WOULD WE BE.WE ALL HAVE
A WISH OR A DREAM OR A
PATH TO FOLLOW AND THE
MOVIE WAS REALY ABOUT
ONE PERSON AND A DREAM

Name: Marie
Subject: xanadu
-- Jul 15, 2000 at 1:51PM
Xanadu is a fantasy movie that's all. While it didn't stick to the artist thing, it was great dancing and very entertaining far as the dancers talent.
Especially that 40's mixed with hard rock
number. I wasnt into either one until that number. It turned me on to2 different types of music,otherwise I dont believe I would have ever just listened to it.
The rollerskating was not too desirable, I believe they could have gotten some better skaters(namely myself), I expected more out of the movie but it was acceptable because it was full of talent even if it wasn't the stars.

Name: Jules
Subject: Loving Xanadu and the Soundtrack especially
-- Jul 11, 2000 at 1:12PM
Xanadu is great and truly beautiful, and wonderful, as Paul said. We've both watched and listened to it over and over. I love it...it's funny and silly, and innocent and happy.
Sonny is cute, Gene is delightful, Olivia is gorgeous (yum!) and the music is just perfect!!! The movie of dreams and imagination!!!!!!!!!! Wonderful. Pure escapism. If you cannot appreciate this...well...you must be a sad and cynical individual. You just have to give
in to being free...not worrying that something is goofy, or not too well acted. I hated Grease cos it was too good (well apart from the lusciuos Stockard Channing who was just utterly perfect...yummy yummy!!!) and always thought Xanadu was far better. The soundtrack is awesome...magic!!!! I only wish they had the film version of
"Dancing" (yes all you obsessive Xanadu people like me should be able to see that it's a wee bit different...I can play every note of every instruement on the track...!!!)
Xanadu is true Magic. And the song Xanadu is utter briliance...(Lynne and Farrar are bloody excellent!!)

Truly deleriously fun...xxx
love to all the Xanadu fans

-Jules

Name: Holly Rose
Subject: Magic
-- Jul 6, 2000 at 5:49PM
Xanadu was pure magic and that's all there is to it. I work in film and I understand how horrible Xanadu can be to first-timers, but I still find it incredibly inspirational. Then again, I still have leg-warmers. Why I'll never be able to let go of the eighties, I'll never know. But as long as Xanadu makes it into movies like Gas, Food, Lodging where Fairuza Balk dresses up like Kira to come on to her gay friend Donovan Leitch, I'll know I'm not the only one. Hey, is there a Xanadu fan site? If not, why?

Name: glauco
Subject: xanadu
-- Jul 5, 2000 at 8:19PM
I totally agee with Lori
I love the film.

Name: lori
Subject: xanadu
-- Jun 30, 2000 at 9:12PM
i am a huge onj fan..and
i loved xanadu..(i even own the video)it was the 1st soundtrack i ever bought.i love it now as much as i loved it then and still listen to the soundtrack all the ti(me...you can not tell me that the duet "whenver you're away from me" w/ g.kelly is a classic ...so what if it wasn't the greatest plot or best acting take it for what it worth..a muscial fantasy movie from the '80's.!!!! (p.s. frank..you're the 'golden turkey'!!!)

Name: FRANK
Subject: XANADU
-- Jun 22, 2000 at 9:10PM
A Golden Turkey if ever I saw one.Trying to revive Gene Kelly's acting career,eh? Trying to combine the music of the Andrews Sisters with The Tubes,eh? Try to convince us that Michael Beck can act, eh?Trying to peddle Olivia as a Muse who inspires great(!)music,eh? AHAHAHAHAHA
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA !!!!
Try something else!

Name: Rebekah
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 17, 2000 at 3:07AM
About five years ago when I was 13, my gay brother decided I needed my horizons broadened and took it upon himself to culture me up in the almighty ways of Olivia-Newton John. He insisted that I know her not only as Sandra Dee, cinematic foil to his uber-fave... Stockard Channing. He showed me the oddly compelling horror that is Xanadu. I loved it. We'd sing the songs together... once again blurring the line between whether or not he acted like a teenage girl or I acted like a grown homosexual male. Listened to the soundtrack incessantly. It's a horrible horrible film.I think I'll go buy it on DVD tomorrow. I've got a few friends who need to have their horizons broadened.

Name: Jennifer
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 16, 2000 at 2:40PM
I was 4 years old when I first saw this movie in the theater and I instanatly fell in love with it. I am now 24 and still love this movie. I have watched it at least 100 times and every single time I find something new to love about it. It has everything you could possibly want in a movie..Love, singing, dancing, roller-skating, and animation. It tells you that dreams do come true, you just have to want them enough and take risk. Of course the movie has no sense of reality but who needs that when we live it everyday.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Jun 12, 2000 at 8:34PM
Jessica, it's impossible for me to insult your intelligence.

Drum roll, cymbal crash, peels of laughter from the back row.

Downgrading ELO and Jeff Lynne? Au contraire -- I dig ELO and Jeff Lynne. Unfortunately, I have a sense of humor about my tastes. Maybe you should develop one, too?

I'll take Javier's advice and SHUP, no wait, SHUT UP now.

Name: Jessica
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 12, 2000 at 7:58PM
You are totally switching my words around. i may have not been around at that time but i know everything wasnt the same as it is now. And please dont insult my intelligence to think that i thought everything was peachy keen in the eighties. i know everything wasnt as it appears in xanadu and maybe thats why i like it so much. Its an escape from what our society, is, was , has become, and is becoming. Now what is wrong with that
? And also i dont apprecite your downgrading of ELO and Jeff Lynne....

Name: Javier
Subject: Olivia Forever!!!
-- Jun 12, 2000 at 10:25AM
O.K., Xanadu wasn't as good as Grease, but its soundtrack is still a pop phenomenom.
Please, Mr William, SHUT UP!!!

Name: Javier
Subject: Olivia Forever!!!
-- Jun 12, 2000 at 10:24AM
O.K., Xanadu wasn't as good as Grease, but its soundtrack is still a pop phenomenom.
Please, Mr William, SHUP UP!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Jun 10, 2000 at 8:12PM
Jessica, you weren't even born when this movie came out ... and things were better then? That's weird -- are you saying the world was a better place because you weren't in it? Or that you're imagining the world was a better place because of this movie?

And take it from a guy in his mid-30's -- the time is now, get out of the habit of "then" and "now" -- it's a disease that tends to strike people a lot older than you, and makes them act like complete jack asses. Some things are worse now ... some are better. But take my word for it -- kids in 1980 weren't tooling around on rollerskates with permanent smiles pasted on their faces -- unless they were in one of the gangs in The Warriors, and toting baseball bats, and looking to beat someone's ass. That movie image is just as much of its time as Xanadu was.

Name: Jessica
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 10, 2000 at 6:15PM
I saw Xanadu on my 13th birthday...Im now 16 and i still love it.I think its one of the last few movies that is original and not corrupted. Although the acting is bad...the plot is still very good. It talks about 2 people from 2 totally different worlds who make it in the end no matter what each of them had to do to ahcieve that. I think its a beautiful love story and one of last wholesome ones. Things were alot better then than now..thats why I love it. If you look beyond the acting you should see what you feel in love with when you were younger.......

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu Revisited
-- Jun 10, 2000 at 9:53AM
Thank you, Hope, for giving me credit for destroying your warm fuzzy memories of supremely mediocre cultural references that really should mean nothing in how you view your childhood.

If you have any other supremely mediocre cultural references that you've illogically and apparently inextricably welded to your supposedly real-life memories of your youth, let me know, and I'd be honored to puncture your balloon once again. You don't want to see the movie again because of something I've written? Thank you, Hope, thank you. I didn't realize I had the power.

Name: Hope
Subject: My memory is fuzzy
-- Jun 9, 2000 at 9:45PM
Xanadu is a warm (all be it fuzzy) memory to me. I was about 7 when I saw it the one and only time. I thought Olivia was the most beautiful woman in the world. I had seen Grease not long before. I was surfing and found this page and now I don't want to see the movie again. I'll keep my warm fuzzy memory, why ruin it with a dose of reality?

Name: Hope
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Jun 9, 2000 at 9:43PM
Xanadu is a warm (all be it fuzzy) memory to me. I was about 7 when I saw it the one and only time. I thought Olivia was the most beautiful woman in the world. I had seen greas not long before. I was surfing and found this page and now I don't want to see the movie again. I'll keep my warm fuzzy memory, why ruin it with a dose of reality

Name: Stephanie
Subject: The Old Xanadu Building
-- Jun 7, 2000 at 2:34PM
I see that MarkBear got to save a part of the Old Building that we knew as Xanadu...Where was it? and why did they tear it down? If anyone has any pictures of it, please e-mail me at Stephanieterry@hotmail.com. Thanks!

Name: MarkBear
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jun 6, 2000 at 9:42AM
This isn't the be all and end all of bad movies. If you look at it from the stand point of scmaltz movies it's actually pretty good. It does seem like a series of connected pre-MTV videos. Leave the ol girl alone. Considering half the crap that came out at that time. Could anyone really sit through "Can't Stop the Music" without loosing their lunch and dignity all at the same time. If anything, Xanadu made us aware of a beautiful old building that was torched a decade ago. (I managed to save a small piece before they buried it under tons of earth and put who knows what kind of strip mall on top of it). Look at Xanadu as a visual time capsual along with Saturday Night Fever and Roller Boogie. At least in the future we will know what not to wear.

Name: olivia fan #1
Subject: xanadu
-- May 29, 2000 at 7:51PM
xanadu xanadu xanadu!!! It maybe the movie was sort of needing a hit of acid to get you thru it but the scene of Livvy doing fool country was diffenetly worth the 1.15 WAS she Hot or was she Hot ( sad thing is she still is) I'll watch it again just to sob at suspended in time Wow bad revues it must have been the smoke that made it seem like a trip!!! And to think she met Matt on the set!! Hope she comes back with a hit!!!!

Name: thespian
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 28, 2000 at 6:42PM
I was fifteen when the movie was released. I went to see it because A:Iloved the song Magic andB:I LOVED Olivia Newton-John. Having seen this film at least 75 times over the last 20 years,I can sum up my feelings like this: loved the on-j music,including title song, loved the dance numbers,especially "suddenly,of course I loved Olivia and gene, but I hated the plot. But lord help me I love this film.

Name: Gizelle
Subject: Gene Kelly, Xanadu
-- May 27, 2000 at 10:22AM
i think we must be about the same age. "...bad in a way that no longer seems possible, in a way that is specifically of the 70's..." Oh! how many movies we can say this about, and you've worded it just perfectly!!! i loved your review - it's hilarious! i am a HUGE GK fan and will have to see this film for the same reason i'll eventually have see "Viva Kneival" in its entirety (though it's simply not possible all in one sitting): the curiosity is killing me - what on earth was this man thinking?? i'll be sure and post a review when i've seen it...

Name: Nicole
Subject: Michelangelo Malone!
-- May 23, 2000 at 3:19PM
Xanadu has some of the best lines in cinema history:
"Well, maybe just one moment - or forever, I keep getting them mixed up."
"Dreams die. No. We kill them."
"Well, if it isn't Michaelangelo Malone"
"Tuesday's Wednesday"

Stunning!

Name: Sharon
Subject: Kira Wannabe
-- May 23, 2000 at 2:16PM
I took 10 of my closest girl friends to see Xanadu for my 7th Birthday Party, Sept. 10, 1980.... my 8th Birthday Party was at Roller Skates of America. Anyhow, we all tried to imitate Kira wearing the braided ribbon barettes, which are making a comeback 20 years later.
Olivia Newton-John was my idol!!!!

Name: Liz B
Subject: Xanadu rocks!
-- May 16, 2000 at 6:43PM
For sure Xanadu is awesome....it definetly is very different...but if you don't see why this movie is so great then you are not worthy of watching it....yeah..maybe the acting isn't that great..but the music is totally rad....you have to admit that the dancing in it rules also....i am definetly a xanadu fan...and think that everyone should watch xanadu at least once....Basically this is what i get out of it....Kira is a muse...(one of the daughters of zeus) there job is to come and help make peoples dreams come true....ok thanks and have a great day....

Name: John L.
Subject: xanadu cult classic
-- May 15, 2000 at 5:45PM
This was a fun escapist movie.It had great songs and lots of colour. Olivia looked great and sang great.
Granted the storyline was pretty weak,but a film doesn't have to have sex and violence to be a great film.
I saw this film several times at the cinema before it's video release. Not the huge success of Grease but for me I thought Olivia looked better. No leather spandex pants but what about those finale scenes in leather mini skirt and tigerskin top - yum!:-)
This film had something for everybody great songs from Olivia,some big band sounds for the parents,animation for children and some terrific special effects.
This was one of the most succesful movies of 1980 in Australia and is still available readily on video and is soon to be released onto DVD here in oz, so if the movie was so bad why would either be the case?!!

Despite some comments you don't need to hit the grog or anti-depressant pills to enjoy this film,accept it for what it is, light hearted romantic escapism with great songs great sets and of course the gorgeous Olivia! Her presence in this film or any film for that matter is worth the cost of rental and a great way to relax for a couple of hours.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu:a cult classic for hopless 'ol romantics
-- May 14, 2000 at 3:29PM
Jim, forget about Xanadu -- the Xanax is in the bathroom medicine cabinet. Next to the band-aids. Behind the speed stick.

Take as much as you want. Help yourself. Here, take the whole bottle. Let me know if you need more.

Name: Jim L.
Subject: Xanadu:a cult classic for hopless 'ol romantics
-- May 13, 2000 at 8:33AM
Okay,this movie sucked dirt eh! The story line was borish,the plot still debate-able,the star married an actor-dancer who later fooled around with their daughter's babysitter(or whatever) while Liv was out crusading for the enviroment and cancer research OKAY ENOUGH OF THIS ACININE BOB AND TOM-ish BULLSHIT!!!!!
What young dude would not fantasize about this beautiful singer with her mesmerizing voice..and those sexy outfits she wore that showed some leg!!!(holey moley!!!!) I even tried to grow out and comb my hair like Sonny Malone when I was still dating and trying to impress my wife!(back when I still had hair and was still a skinny 'ol geek.) This flick may be no Grease or Wayne's World,but it's not a total flop either...the film has a cult following..especially among Olivis's diehard fans like myself.Apperantly MCA/Universal saw some sort of potential by releasing it on DVD recently.
I miss pinball games at the local arcade,movies with romance and without apocalyptic good ol boy violence..and miss the days when rock and roll had social commentary and the longing for peace,love and understanding...and yes,romance!
The film was essential escapism from Reganomics,hostages in Iran,the Aryan Nation movement in small town mid-Amerikkka,yuppies,dope dealing heavy metal hillbilles that work in two liter pop bottle factories,arrogant favoritist dickheads (big fish in a little pond)systematiclly screwing over part time on-air talent at small town/small market radio stations,and local Catholic high schools that play favorites with the locally well to do by singleing out the common man and working class families with overwhelmingly astronomical tuition rates.
Olivia is a kindred spirit..she sings from her heart and reaches out to mine that is broken.

Name: Javier
Subject: XANADU
-- May 9, 2000 at 1:38PM
Xanadu is a great movie, although was panned by the critics !!!
Olivia Newton-John was great.
Xanadu also is the word !!!

Name: William Repsher
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 8, 2000 at 1:08PM
Tim, I'm all for pointing out how lame music is these days. Movies? They're as good now as they were in the 70's, but I'd hardly use Xanadu as a shining beacon of quality. And if kids are screwed up, I'd look more closely at parents who were raised watching stuff like Xanadu, although I'm of a mind that their artistic tastes are fairly irrelevant in regards to how well they do or don't raise their children.

Name: TIM Mclaughlin
Subject: XANADU
-- May 7, 2000 at 11:02PM
Whats your problem with this movie people? At the time the world was going down the tubes (I know, it still is) But it was great escapism I look back at that point in my life and cherish all the wonderful memories. look at the crappy music and movies coming out today and you will see the reason kids are so screwed up. long live XANADU!!

Name: Keith
Subject: Xanadu
-- May 5, 2000 at 10:48AM
Yes the story was pointless, the movie as a whole was a 90 minute version of the Jacksons video for Can You Feel It ,but Olivia looked and sounded fantastic at a time when she was THE biggest female pop star in the world. I recently saw the digitally remastered version on cable and the sound quality of the musical scenes was superb

Name: Joe Cacciatore
Subject: xanadu
-- May 4, 2000 at 6:30AM
Watched this flick for the first time on Laserdisc when I was, like 5. Sent for (and recieved) signed picture from Olivia. The movie (to me) sems to be about making your dreams your reality. The soundtrack is CLASSIC, who wouldn't fall in love with a girl who sang "Suddenly" to you? Or a girl you could duet "Dancin'" with? Thats what the movie is about, (IMHO) Its love.
Keep up the great posts!

Name: Scott
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 27, 2000 at 2:44PM
The movie did have a personal spin-off for Olivia - she met her future ex-husband, Matt Lattanzi, who was a dancer on the set of Xanadu.
A dancer of all things.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: William S. Repsher
-- Apr 19, 2000 at 7:43AM
Eric: I'm a tool. Dude, that's so heavy! Chill, dude, chill. Play some Nintendo. Have a bowl of Lucky Charms.

Oh, I can't believe how crude you are! I'm going to need therapy after this, you evil man. I'll have to squeeze it in between my Xanadu Addiction Relief 12-Step Program. Oh, the humanity. A tool! You're a hard man, Eric!

Name: Joanne
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 19, 2000 at 3:03AM
I grabbed the movie over the weekend and too found that the story line is a bit "how ya goin?". Although I must say that Olivia N-John is a true beauty goddess who has an unbelievable voice!

Name: Eric
Subject: William S. Repsher
-- Apr 19, 2000 at 12:49AM
I see that you are still a tool.

Eric

Name: Rick
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 17, 2000 at 5:52AM
The movie sucked but Olivia ruled. When I think back when it was released I didn't care about the plot the only thing that made me go back and see it five times was Olivia's beauty.

Name: Chad
Subject: xanadu
-- Apr 14, 2000 at 10:27PM
I think this movie is good but not suck even though the plot is a little hard to swallow. I love The soundtrack and would own the movie on DVD oneday. Well the movie is entertaining and has a captured look of the early '80s fashion and music. If I ever had a music group I surely would call it Xanadu. Xanadu your neon lights will shine for you Xanadu!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Apr 12, 2000 at 6:29PM
There now, editors, there now, no need to degrade one of our readers. Let her do it herself! Now we have movies that kill people? Name one -- granted, Xanadu was almost bad enough to kill people, but not quite. That would be a real goal for a young director: make a movie that kills people. Glad you were mart enough, though, Connie, to put the word "violence" in quotes, implying that it's not real violence "our teans" are being shown. I'd imagine a good number of them are smart enough to sense this -- probably about the same number in 1980 who doubted bad movies crassly and manipulatively targeted at them. But that's show biz!

Name: The Editors Respond
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Apr 12, 2000 at 12:05PM
A gold prize to Connie!
Without question, the dumbest comment on a board filled with dumb comments!

Name: Connie
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 12, 2000 at 11:55AM
You suck...Xanadu was awesome at the time...now we have movies that kill people.. showing our teans "violence"...etc...

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu Reviseted
-- Apr 6, 2000 at 7:21AM
Er, Lisa, this took me about an hour or two to write, and it's not very long. Besides which, again, may I point you to the last paragraph as explanation of my perverse attraction to this truly bad movie. I'm starting to think there's a Xanadu cult out there, with people in satin shorts on rollerskates in the middle of the woods on nights of the full moon.

Name: Lisa
Subject: Xanadu Reviseted
-- Apr 6, 2000 at 1:01AM
The mere fact that you took so much time to write so much about a movie you say is bad, just proves that you must have liked something. I don't think I would take so many words to say that someting is bad. You really dwelt on some ddep parts of the movie, that no one would realize if they did not watch it a lot. So, CHEERS! Xanadu was a WONDERFUL movie...and unlike the movies of today, I would not mind my children watching someting that did not have sex, drugs, and violence!

Lisa

Name: Gordan
Subject: Xanadu
-- Apr 5, 2000 at 1:29AM
Whats wrong with you Chode? This movie is flippin amazing! You need to post something saying that you have changed you mind, and you are now a huge fan or I will SO poke out your damn eye! That's right punk! YOur EYE!!!

Love,

Gordan and Olivia Fiona

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu Revisited
-- Mar 29, 2000 at 8:58PM
No losers here in the Xanadu Yak Shak -- just sheer amazement that wierdoes are still piling out of the woodwork to claim their perverse love for this odd flick.

Name: Panda
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Mar 29, 2000 at 12:34AM
Ello Mr Repsher...still getting losers like me to comment on this movie eh?(laugh)....duh, what's with that Eric guy?...nevermind...still luv this site..see ya :)

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanadu revisited
-- Mar 26, 2000 at 5:13PM
Shellie, you're sad. But I still skate around dressed up like Olivia. And Bernard, you forgot to finish your theory: therefore, Xanadu is no crime. I'm afraid I missed the part of my review demanding prison sentences for the makers of this movie.

Name: BERNARD HAINES
Subject: FILM XANADU
-- Mar 26, 2000 at 4:30AM
I have a copy of this film and i beg to differ with the gentleman who was disappointed with it. I found the film very entertaining and fun despite the weakness of the storyline. Xanadu is fantasy. Fantasy is no crime.

Name: shellie
Subject: xanadu revisited
-- Mar 25, 2000 at 6:07PM
Xanadu is a great movie I've loved it from being a kid. I have the movie and the soundtrack and are both fantasic. Call me sad if you wish but Xanadu is great.I used to skate around dressed up like Olivia. Long live XANADU

Name: snoopy
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Mar 22, 2000 at 10:52PM
Hey, Xanadu wasn't a bad movie. The music was great in it and Olivia looked wonderful. If you have blame anyone for its failure blame the script writers who kept changing it everyday during its shooting.

Name: An LS.n Reader
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Mar 20, 2000 at 9:22PM

You're right, I'm sorry.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Mar 20, 2000 at 8:03AM
Do my a favor, Eric -- find the boat I'm missing. Tell me what to review and what not to. "We" all know it's a bad movie? Do yourself a favor and scroll down the list of responses. "We" don't all seem to agree with you. Which is reason enough for me to review it. What made me want to watch it again? I think you should read the last paragraph of the article -- that pretty much says it all. If it's your contention that the only reason to watch it is it makes one remember a certain time in one's life, I'd say that's a very minor, valid point, and missing your proverbial boat. But, again, what exactly am I supposed to critique? Your life as a seven-year-old when you first saw it?

Name: erictucson@aol.com
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 19, 2000 at 6:53PM
Haha jeeze the light hearted discussion suddenly turns tragic.

Let me rephrase what I said. The exact reasons why it is a bad movie falls on deaf ears to it's fans. People like me don't watch it because of excellent acting or a credible script. Guess what? We all know it's a bad movie whether you are a fan or not. That's my point when I ask why you bother to critique it.

Did you honestly think you were going to find some redeeming quality the second time around twenty years later?

I was making a case as to why people would watch such a movie and none of it has to do with the lack of artistic quality that you mentioned. In my opinion you missed the boat on this one because you just stated the obvious. Trying to summarize the plot is a perfect example of this....even if it was a great artistic movie you'd sound like an idiot trying to tell people what it is about anyway.

What made you want to watch it again? I have a feeling it has something to do with remembering Magic on the beach in Jersey, and you probably pictured that moment when the song came up.

THAT'S what liking this movie is about, and it has absolutely nothing to do with the script, acting, or artistic integrity.

Eric

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Mar 19, 2000 at 5:54PM
So, Eric, let me get this straight. You imply that I'm wasting my time by critiquing Xanadu in any way, shape or form because, in your view, it goes under some "taste radar" that designates I should be "wasting all my time" on only "good" movies.

Are you using the old saw, "if you have nothing nice to say, don't say it at all"? That's fine. But if you have nothing nice to read, don't read it at all. I said about all the good things I could muster about Xanadu. Anyone unironically touting tripe like Xanadu or Sgt. Pepper, perhaps the worst movie ever made, needs to keep an eye on the bigger picture, where on can see the difference between quality and campy fun.

Dream A Little Dream? Oh, I'd write about that one, except I can't help but uncontrollably vomit every time it comes on TBS or USA. Why would you want anyone's artistic opinion? How the fuck should I know? I'm too busy tearing the wings off butterflies to read your mind, Eric.

Name: erictucson@aol.com
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 19, 2000 at 4:57AM
Why waste time reviewing the script of an 80s movie? Trying to see if any actors got snubbed for an Oscar? Want to see how the special effects stack up against Star Wars?

I'm watching Xanadu right now.....Sonny is walking into the warehouse for the first time and he is watching ONJ roll around....Magic is playing in the background. Bring back any memories?

I LOVE this movie because every time I think about it or see it I can remember what my life was like when I was 7. I remember sitting in the movies with my sisters and watching this movie all afternoon because it was so hot outside.....so we brought our sleeping bags and pillows and watched from the floor in front. Try checking in a sleeping bag at the movies today...

So.....who really cares if the plot is like a bad Disney cartoon. Who cares that the acting is perfectly dumb and simple enough to where they almost pull it off. Ever watch a old James Bond flick and wonder how stupid you were to believe that with one push of button a rocket launcher pops out of the side of his car? What's next.....reviewing the script for "Thunderball"?

ALSO, the only other movie I watched more than this was SGT Peppers. Because of that movie the Beatles became my fave group of all time. I sang the songs before I knew where they came from. Why would I want someone's opinion about the artistic credibilty of having a gazeebo with a large burger and mustard hanging on top of it?

Whats next? Gonna bash on Dream a Little Dream?

Eric
Tucson, Arizona

Name: Ceniya Palmer
Subject: Xanadu
-- Mar 10, 2000 at 7:31PM
I laughed hysterically when I read this review. Only someone who can sit through this entire film can understand and appreciate the trueness of your review. Excellent. I must admit though, I am technically in the "gen X" category. However let me say, that Xanadu was the first movie I had ever seen in the theatre...I was six!!! When I was in elementary school, my reading class had to find poems to recite for the entire class...I chose "Kubla Khan"...and here it is, 20 years later...and I have owned a copy of the movie for the past 5 years. I have the original soundtrack..on an album that my parents bought for me when the film came out, on an old cassette tape I bought at a yard sale when I was 15, and a CD that I ordered on-line last year (I too was aware of the soundtrack re-release). I can't deny it, as corny as it is, I love Xanadu!!! When I'n pissed off, sad, happy or just bored, I watch Xanadu!!! It' so great to know that in spite of the many friends and family in my life...I'm not alone. If watching Xanadu is an illness, I don't wanna know the cure!!! Long live XANADU!!

Name: D. Walker
Subject: Xanadu brilliance!
-- Mar 10, 2000 at 5:08AM
I loved your review! Especially the phrase 'Altamonte of the 70s'. Most reviews just pan the movie and leave it be. You're review comes closest to how I actually feel about the movie.

Get this: you know that college George Bush 3 went to that got him in flack? Bob Jones University? I was there for four weeks in 1980 before I pulled the plug on that depressing experience. If this tells you anything about the place, I was able to sneak out to a nearby movie theater and see Xanadu and In God We Trust with Marty Feldman and Andy Kaufman. That is the highlight of my horrible BJU career.

I still like to watch Xanadu from time to time, but I like Phantom of the Paradise better. But I still watch Xanadu when I see it on USA and I have nothing better to do. What can I say? I'm warped!

Name: affromva@yahoo.com
Subject: Xanadu
-- Feb 20, 2000 at 1:03PM
Can't disagree more with the criticism posted here.

Because it was released in 1980 doesn't make it an '80s movie.

For us baby-boomers who crunch away at life, it's an escape.

I'm happy for the 40-and-under crowd who can't emphatize with that.

Name: David from Sydney kdl@atu.com.au
Subject: xanadu
-- Feb 14, 2000 at 1:44PM
The building for the exterior was the Pan Pacific Auditorium, next to NBC television studios in L.A. It burnt down last year unfortunately. Anyway 3 years ago I was on a bus when in L.A and saw the deco pilons, so I got off and was in facination standing in front of it.I just wished that I had my old strap-on skates with me at the time. I always loved the movie. You have to believe......

Name: enigma
Subject: xanadu
-- Feb 13, 2000 at 2:20PM
I also have a copy of this movie,it's tacky,but I also got sucked into when I was in the "lets pretend " years.I love it still,it's a bit painful to watch,the acting and whatnot but it brings back alot of memorys ,like for example,and you all should love this,I had convinced about 12 of my friends at the time that we were the muses,we ran through the woods in the back of my house,sporting thick headbands,leg warmers and tin foil braclets(which we stole from wonderwoman)anyway,there we were a bunch of looney kids singing at the top of our lungs "I'M ALIVE!'ridiculous,but now when see the movie at thirty it brings back all those fun memorys

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: vern
-- Feb 9, 2000 at 9:11PM
Natalie, you and YOUR FAMILY have been hunting down Xanadu? Your last name wouldn't be MANSON by any chance, would it?

Xanadu is now readily avialable. If no local retailers carry it, try www.reel.com, and I'm certain they will have it. Now, if you try to buy ROLLER BOOGIE while you're at it, you just might be shit out of luck.

Name: Panda
Subject: xanadu stuff
-- Feb 9, 2000 at 4:01PM
Hey Natalie....if you (or anyone else for that matter) are looking for Xanadu the movie on vhs (or perhaps the special Marvel comic magazine spectacular, a t-shirt, a mouse pad or loads of other items) a good place to start is on the web. My favorite sight: www.ebay.com Just type that URL in, go to search, and type in xanadu ...voila. :)

Name: Natalie
Subject: vern
-- Feb 9, 2000 at 3:22PM
Please tell me more, My family and i have been searching for this movie for years. Bootsales old video stores, you name it we looked. Please help us slightly sad individuals find this momentous movie PLEASE!!!

Name: Panda
Subject: hmmmm
-- Feb 8, 2000 at 9:30AM
Mr Repsher.......I think I lurve you........(laugh)at this point I keep coming back just to see what you'll say next.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: what the?
-- Feb 7, 2000 at 6:54PM
Panda, at this point I'd settle for a pair of plaid polyester bellbottoms and skaing INTO walls.

Name: Panda
Subject: what the?
-- Feb 7, 2000 at 6:05PM
um..who are these freaks saying that this movie is "all about the dancing and the story of love and following your dreams" ? people people..it's about the music and wanting a super cool outfit like Kira's and being able to rollerskate through walls!! YEAH!

Name: St. Chris
Subject: Square and compass?
-- Feb 6, 2000 at 12:06AM
What's with the headstone graphic?
You saying Gene was a Mason?

Name: ANDREA
Subject: LONG LIVE XANADU
-- Feb 4, 2000 at 9:12AM
I REMEMBER BEGGING MY DAD TO TAKE ME TO SEE THIS MOVIE - HE NEVER DID BUT I DID GET THE SOUNDTRACK AND IT REMAINS MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE ALBUM OF ALL TIME. IT TRULY IS A CLASSIC AND ONE OF THE MOST UNDERRATED MOVIE SOUNDTRACKS EVER. I HAVE OWNED THE ALBUM, THEN UPGRADED TO A CASSETTE, AND NOW CD. I DRIVE MY CO-WORKERS CRAZY LISTENING TO IT ALL THE TIME! AND MR. REPSCHER, I UNDERSTAND YOUR POINT THAT PERHAPS THE MOVIE SCRIPT IS LACKING SOMEWHAT BUT THERE ARE REALLY MANY MOMENTS OF BRILLANCE IN THE MOVIE - THE ONJ/GENE KELLY DANCE NUMBER, THE DUELING BANDS, THE ANIMATED SEQUENCE AND MOST ESPECIALLY THE FINALE. THIS MOVIE IS A CLASSIC!

Name: olive
Subject: mistake
-- Feb 2, 2000 at 6:47PM
sorry, just realised that the track for celine dion is don't walk away, not don't t urn around-0 silly me, by the way... sgt pepper really is a turkey !!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Feb 1, 2000 at 8:17PM
Randy, you're so randy! Wave your freak flag high -- but then scroll down the Yaks and recognize the line forms to the right and goes around the corner.

Name: RANDY
Subject: Xanadu
-- Feb 1, 2000 at 5:08PM
So sad that Mr. Repsher is unable to find any joy or even entertainment value in this 80's flop. Admittedly it is a simple story, but the dancing (especially in the battle of the bands segment) is phenomenally good, with cheoreography by Kenny Ortega and Jerry Trent. The mural and the muses gowns are reminiscent of the Maxfield Parrish paintings that were a popular ad art in the early 70's, while at the same time managing to spoof it as well. And there's a fun cartoon smack dab in the middle of the movie by just-abandoned-Disney animator Don Bluth. Artistically, there's a lot more at value in the film then most people care to admit, as disco had suddenly become embarrassingly passe, and we were leaving the sweeter world of the 70's (Mary Tyler Moore, Sheields and Yarnell, The Carpenters, and of course Olivia herself) and entering the meaner world of the 80's. To praise this movie at all seems to some people to be an admission of not advancing with the times or not reaching a sort of cultural adulthood,where things such as hummable sweet music, cartoons and partner dancing are cosidered immature. I personally find all three of these things to be joys in life, and "Xanadu" manages to make a celebration of all three. I've seen the film perhaps more times than any human should admit to seeing ANY film, but it never fails to delight and is like visiting a good friend who never changes. The script isn't great, but Michael Beck destroys even the simplest lines and cannot match the charm brought by Olivia Newton -John. Had she a better leading man, the film may have done better. All i know is that when this film finally came to the little suburb of Boston that I live in, it was sold out, and my friend, my brother and I all sat back in a packed audience and laughed and enjoyed this film. From the (at the time- and still is fun)dazzling mural jump at the beginning to the glitzy over-the-top everything but the kitchen sink finale, this movie beat MTV to the music video punch, but did so without relying on sexual or violent imagery. So I ask you Mr. Repsher: Whats so bad about that?

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: XANADU
-- Jan 27, 2000 at 8:56PM
Is that the theme from THE TWILIGHT ZONE I hear playing the background?

Name: ANGEL
Subject: XANADU
-- Jan 27, 2000 at 4:35PM
WHY? DO MOVIES ALWAYS HAVE TO HAVE THE BEST WRITING, THE BEST ACTING AND BE EMOTIONALY MOVING TO BE CONSIDERED "A GOOD MOVIE!"
" In Xanadu did Kubla Kahn a stately pleasuredome decre." The essence of Xanadu is in the name and its origin,
it's FANTASY.
The frustrated artist, the aging musician, their muse, all come together to fulfill a dream.
Within a series of entertaining musical numbers and poorly acted ( mostly Sonny ) scenes there lies the "magic" in Xanadu. Finding your true love, searching your soul for who you really are and what you want out of life, fulfilling your dreams. Basicly, it tapps into feelings everyone has. Everyone at one point in time questions who they are and there place in this world. Everyone wants to find their true love. The completetion of your dreams and the joy that follows is a desire everyone shares. All of you nasayers out there need to get down off of your high horse look at yourself. Do you see any of these characteristics in you, if you do ( which we all know you do ). Then you now share a deeper understanding and a connection, a connection which spands " ALL OVER THE WORLD,"
LONG LIVE XANADU!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Jan 26, 2000 at 11:35AM
Angie, I would let a cannibal give me a head before I wrote anything about Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. If you haven't seen it since you were seven, I highly recommend you revisit that insanely awful movie. But don't blame me if you turn to stone in your E-Z Boy recliner.

Name: Angie
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 25, 2000 at 9:58AM
What can I say? We're a cyberspace full of freaks and people that need more to do with their time! Long live Xanadu! (hee-hee) Will you do an article about Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band next? I haven't seen it since I was seven. I didn't even know who the Beatles were until years later. I'd love to see if there's the same response! Take care!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Jan 24, 2000 at 10:20PM
Angie, is it just you? Scroll down the list of replies, obviously not, but it wasn't me, babe! I will never cease to wonder at the reaction to this article, which I thought would be a quick one off that no one would pay attention to -- so much for that!

Name: Angie Gilbert
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 24, 2000 at 9:22PM
Though I'm a little embarrassed to say it because I do agree with the author's opinion that the 1980 movie was horrendous, I am still in love with the whole idea that Xanadu - the movie, the soundtrack, the roller disco - was. This is why I'm commenting on your article. I felt the author's interpretation was a little sort- sighted (though I see the tongue in the cheek!) They did not spend any of the movie trying to get Kira to be human. The main theme of the movie is following you dreams, making them come alive, whether it be to build a roller disco or to be with the one person you love more than life. These words seem trite as I'm reading them, but that's what I felt in my 9-year-old heart (when I first saw the movie) and I still feel that way today. One of the reasons I think the screenplay was so horrible (other than just plain bad writing) is that it never really pursued the whole fact that Kira and Sonny were sooooo in love that she would even consider giving up her immortality to be with him. Is it just me, or did you just not feel it either? Maybe it was Michael Beck's acting. Anyway, you can tell I'm a little obsessed about Xanadu (especially the soundtrack), and it was so fun to see an article about it on your website. Thanks!

Name: Steve A. Feinstein
Subject: Pan Pacific Auditorium
-- Jan 22, 2000 at 6:20AM
http://architecture.aundw. net/Buildings/ pan-pacific -auditorium.shtml

Looks like "Xanadu" burned down in 1989.

Am the only one whofinds this deeply ironic. The building that was the focus of the movie that profoundly affected me during my adolescence came to an end at the same time that the 80's did.

Name: JOHN
Subject: XANADU
-- Jan 18, 2000 at 7:52PM
WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE BUILDING THEY USE IN XANADU.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: I'm alive
-- Jan 17, 2000 at 9:12AM
Well, Olive (Oil?), being raised in central Scotland, Xanadu must have been fantasy enough taking place in sunny southern California, while you stared at the statue of Braveheart in the rain. And for those interested, Drum Dreams is now available on a pretty awful 2-CD called "ELO: Friends and Family" that collects much of their b-side material and non-Jeff Lynne solo projects. Why do I know all this?

Name: olive
Subject: I'm alive
-- Jan 17, 2000 at 8:40AM
Yup, 'tis true that some of it is unparalled pish but i feel strongly that some of the ELO stuff (although formulaic) is brilliant pop pap. I remember playing the b side of I'm alive "Drum Dreams" and wondering where all the flangy stuff came from and who were the party crowd at the top & bottom of "All over the world" dull but incredibly important for a fifteen year old from central scotland in 1980.

Why nobody thought of using AOTW as a soundtrack to the Millenium celebrations I will never know "There's gonna be a party..."

also I like JeffLynnes nod to his home town area of Shard End near Birmingham in the middle 8 list of places. The key change of the vocal "OOOOOH EEOOOOOOOOHH"at the end of the track is true ELO and "Don't turn around" is a big busting ballad that Celine Dion would die to have written for her these days.

Name: Anthonio
Subject: Xanadu
-- Jan 11, 2000 at 9:00PM
I always knew this movie existed, yet somehow I had gone 22 years, six of them gay, without actually seeing the movie. Then one night they played the bizzare title song / clip from the movie at one of my favorite video bars in Seattle but for some reason, perhaps the alcohol, I wasn't really that inspired. It wasn't until sometime later in the week while at work I suddenly occured to me that I needed to know more about this movie... I asked my brother what it was all about, and he gave me a synopsis of some kind of dreary flick where this angel comes to earth and convinces this horrible man to wreck this neat old dance hall by turning it into a roller-disco. He added that Gene Kelley was thrown in for some reason that escaped him. I couldn't believe that I had never seen this! I promptly rented it. I must say that even for a camp-freak like me it was a little hard to stomach. I couldn't really decipher any plot, and the styling made me wince, but I did enjoy the final number quite thoroughly, and the transitions between scenes were very nice. Even though I can't say much for the movie, I went out and bought the soundtrack and learned the lyrics to Xanadu, along with some of the other tracks to annoy all of my friends; a record which my mother had some years ago dismissed as "The worst music ever recorded".

Name: Limp
Subject: Xanadu:okay it's a cult classic
-- Jan 7, 2000 at 9:35PM
Xanadu..okay it's a cult classic. Otherwise why did MCA/Universal went and released it on DVD anyway? Olivia couldn't be any sexier and it's a romantic cheezecake fantasy before heading off with your 1980s dream date to Max & Erma's for some Macho Nachos and margaritas.
As for the editorialist he'd be better off if he surgically removed his pecker with an Uncle Henry knife!

Name: jerry
Subject: xanadu
-- Jan 5, 2000 at 3:46AM
the story line was a little goofy but i do like the movie. it shows that anyone can dream and can make it happen. the music was great and effects were cool.

Name: Drum Dreams
Subject: Let's Hope...
-- Jan 3, 2000 at 2:06PM
...that this glorious movie is given the 20th anniversary reissue-treatment this year. The story is disjointed because of numerous script re-writes and re-shoots. Perhaps if it were re-worked, we all could more fully appreciate this wonderfully awful movie. Xanadu is the ultimate paradox - so bad it's good. (I even mourned the fire which destroyed the Pan-Pacific auditorium, the "real" Xanadu).

Name: Panda
Subject: xanadu
-- Jan 3, 2000 at 10:20AM
Mr. Repsher...no need to leave the planet just yet....Just wait....You can leave with me in my purple Xanadu ship when some putz decides to remake this movie...(which isnt a far off idea since this seems to be the age of remakes... )

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: soundtrack
-- Dec 30, 1999 at 9:37AM
I think you're right JH. I stopped keeping score after Out of the Blue, and the HBO special where I clearly heard them using backing tapes on the newer songs. But pointing out that Discovery lead to Xanadu is like pointing out that lava lamps led to pet rocks. Lynne had already fallen a great distance by that time.

Name: JH
Subject: soundtrack
-- Dec 29, 1999 at 10:22PM
Xanadu (soundtrack) was released in 1980. ELO's DISCOVERY
was released in 1979. So the musical leanings were actually the
opposite: DISCOVERY led to Xanadu. If anything, ELO's new niche in futuristic/electronic disco was the
appropriate choice to score Xanadu. Jeff Lynne actually had a few more "good ideas" left in him...after
Xanadu, TIME was released in '81, SECRET MESSAGES in '83, and BALANCE OF POWER in '86.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Dec 29, 1999 at 3:59PM
Panda and Morticia (where's Gomez?), I'm leaving the planet, as I've decided the continued response to this article is a sure sign that the apocalypse is nigh upon us. I'll be the guy in the silver space suit, with rollerskates.

Name: Panda
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 29, 1999 at 12:10PM
This review was DEAD on track...I must've seen this movie on HBO and Showtime about 50 billion times as a competition between myself, my friends, and my sisters...the music MADE this movie cause the script itself was stinkola! (rollerskating?..how old were Sonny and Kira anyway!) I really still in my heart believe that with the soundtract it had, if the script had been thought through a bit more - this thing MAY have been a fantastically good movie (do I smell a remake coming?) One of my fondest memories besides rollerskating in my friends basements to the soundtract, is xmas of 1980... opening up that crisp new purple album cover and staring at all the pictures on the inside and playing it over and over and over and over. Oh how I wanted to be a muse!

Name: Morticia
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 28, 1999 at 6:46PM
Xanadu has to be one of the most wonderful movies of all time (however bad it really was!!)for the Magicalness(?) of it all. as a kid i loved it and i still do.
I spent weeks searching for the CD, just a few months ago, to no avail, even being told it had been withdrawn from circulation. i finally did find it and all of a sudden it started turning up everywhere!! i then managed to find the Video, a thing i had given up all hope of ever doing!!! there is no doubt that the soundtrack is far more outstanding than the movie, but the two really go hand in hand.
Xanadu will always be a magical place.

Name: Stac
Subject: Xanadu Revisited
-- Dec 22, 1999 at 8:38PM
I was truly amazed finding this site. When I was a kid, my friends and I were DEVOTED to this movie & soundtrack. We even rollerskated in our friends' circular driveways in our "Xanadu"-looking nightgowns (we were only 7-8 yrs old).
Going back a little further, does anyone else remember an ONJ album called "Totally Hot"? I believe it was her first pop album (?).

Name: Vern
Subject: Response to Kira
-- Dec 18, 1999 at 10:57PM
If you really want a copy, go to any online movie dealer... believe it or not... it is available on DVD... how do i know? i ordered it because i really enjoyed the soundtrack as a teenager, and Olivia was just so incredibly sexy... I love Olivia and ELO, but it is what it is... a terrible movie with a gorgeous actress and whimsical soundtrack...

Name: Paul
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 11, 1999 at 2:45AM
CHANT ALTOGETHER:
"WE LOVE XANADU!WE LOVE XANADU"
I just got the soundtrack for it by accident and of course it's wonderful!!
Dreamy delicious and fun like the movie...
and its much better than a lot of movies that are supposedly blockbusters...
So its cheesy and silly and lightweight...its still fun and makes you feel good. As a kid I thought Olivia was sexy...and now I love the music too...its just one of those things where you have to forget about
being "cool" or whatever...and just enjoy something for its value, with no shame or embarrasement...
Xanadu is beutiful...!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Dec 3, 1999 at 9:20PM
Now, Kira, pay no mind to those nasty editors. I applaud your parents' sense of humor and am glad they didn't see Death Race 2000 and choose to name you Frankenstein.

Bashing it? I'm reveling in its badness -- so bad it's good. But the question needs to be asked: do you hav a brother named Sonny?

Name: The Editors Respond
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Dec 3, 1999 at 2:03PM
> I came to this site
> to get information on
> the movie and all I
> get is you bashing it.
> It doesn't impress me.

Bummer, because the whole reason we published the article was to impress 18-year-old kids with goofy names.

Pardon our befuddlement, but... you're snippy with us for what reason now? Or did you just post this yak to share the fascinating story of your friend's sister taping over your copy of the movie? 'Cause that was a real nailbiter of a yarn.

Name: Kira
Subject: Xanadu
-- Dec 3, 1999 at 1:44PM
My parents watched this
movie and named me after
Kira. I have seen it once
before but then my friend's
sister taped over it. I
want to find it again because
it is the origin of my
name. I came to this site
to get information on the
movie and all I get is you
bashing it. It doesn't
impress me. I may be only
18 years old but I really
love this movie. Even if it is
out of my era.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: 80s cheesy musicals
-- Nov 19, 1999 at 10:52AM
I'm not touching touching Grease II with a ten-foot, greased pole. I recently had the misfortune of stumbling across this bomb on VH-1 on one of those lazy Sunday afternoons. At least the first one had star power. Grease II? Just for that awful dream sequence with Michelle Pfeiffer and the "Dream Motorcyclist," whatever his name was, Olivia's old boyfriend, for that alone, I have to designate it "in the same bin as Jaws III (in 3-D)." How Michelle Pfeiffer lived through this and went on to a sterling movie career is an amazing feat, although it took her a few years to get back on her feet again.

A much better movie would have been Star Is Born Kristofferson, burned out rock star in the 70s, getting drunk one night in the desert, riding his motorcycle into a time machine, and coming out on a late 1950's high-school campus, where he spends the movie trying to have sex with ballad-singing high-school girls and sweaters, and dodging the war-like advances of TV action series stars on hiatus in leather jackets. Have Streisand in her 70's afro phase stumble into the time machine and come back to save him by reverting to one of those 50's teenyboppers. Watch closely now, indeed.

Name: Lambert
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 19, 1999 at 2:24AM
Watch it Willy! Still love the film for its Xanadu font, Olivia and ELO, It would have been great if it had Travolta in it though.

Name: Monika
Subject: 80s cheesy musicals
-- Nov 19, 1999 at 1:30AM
I saw both The Apple and A Star Is Born and they were both TERRIBLE! They make Xanadu look like like Academy Award material. And Mr. Repsher, I think you also should review another horrible 80s musical and one of the worst sequels of all time, Grease 2. The dancing scene in the bowling alley says it all!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Nov 15, 1999 at 12:10AM
The Apple? I'm afraid you stumped me there, Joe. And I'd say it's NOT a compliment to compare a movie to that awful 1976 version of A Star Is Born. I don't think anyone has a worse voice than Kristofferson. And those "ROCK AND ROLL!!!" scenes are downright dated, in a very bad way. But at least you get to see Streisand with her 70's afro!

Name: Joe Tarapchak
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 13, 1999 at 9:23PM
What can I say! I just bought Xanadu on dvd widescreen! I love this stupid, stupid movie!! It amuses me to think of the guy selling this project to Universal pictures!!! Olivia was probably semi nude in the first stages of this film, right!?? Stupidity can both entertain me or make me angry, Xanadu, Roller Boogie, and Can't Stop The Music will get me through a bad day in the real world! If only life was a musical, I'd be singing the blues daily! Dare I ask, have you seen the movie "The Apple?" if not it's a must see musical makes xanadu look like, ur, a, A Star is Born (1976 version)

Name: jerry abston
Subject: XANADU
-- Nov 10, 1999 at 7:23AM
XANADU COULDN'T BE ALL THAT BAD.JUST think, it had a great sound track. and it was a great love story. i saw it over 143 times as a kid, and today i still love it.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Tuesday's, Wednesday!
-- Nov 4, 1999 at 10:40AM
My God! What dormant beast have I helped unleash here via this article about a movie that still gives me a perverse late 70's kick? The end is near! Take to the hills, people, pray, horde bottled water and canned soup, the final hour is at hand! Put on your rollerskates and swoosh back into the wall mural! You'll be safe there! Oh, the humanity!

Name: Foxy Davon
Subject: Tuesday's, Wednesday!
-- Nov 4, 1999 at 2:40AM
I'm sorry, but I find it extremely hard to believe that anyone could possbily love this movie more than me!! I would breath, sleep, live, and even EAT Xanadu if it were at all within my power.. Just ask my little dog, Sonny Malone...

Name: Karla
Subject: Xanadu
-- Nov 2, 1999 at 7:22PM
As a child, Xanadu was the most mystical and enchanting story that I had ever seen. What could possibbly be so bad about bringing some magic into the life of a child? I mean, think about this: wouldn't the world be a little bit nicer if any of us were still capable of seeing the magic that was Xanadu?

Name: Lisa
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 31, 1999 at 4:42AM
I don't know about all u guys but I enjoyed this movie so much that I own a cassette, a CD and a DVD of the movie. Don't take it so literal. Sure the plot is weak but Xanadu is all about the imagination. If you view it for the sake of getting some intelligence out of it, you're watching it from the wrong angle. Up till today, everytime I hear the song "Suddenly", my heart takes a 360 degree flip.

Name: Stephanie
Subject: Xanadu Movie Location
-- Oct 27, 1999 at 9:35AM
If you're reading this artice, that means that you are one of the few people who have an interest in this cheesy, but great movie..I loved this movie as a little girl and I used to rollerskate around my garage pretending i was olivia. OK, it may be 19 years later, but if I had my garage again, I probably would still do it.!!
My question..does anyone know if the building that was used for the exterior shots for the eventual club (it was an old collesium) is still around and where it is in Los Angeles...somewhere in Orange County. It was also in the video for "Dancing in the Sheets" by Shalamar. I am a lady on a mission to find this place..I need to get a life!

Name: sherry
Subject: props from movie
-- Oct 23, 1999 at 1:30AM
help, I am looking for the movie props featuring the albums used in the movie, who would know anything about this-would be greatly appreciated.
Sherry

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: More trashy cinema
-- Oct 22, 1999 at 11:04AM
Monika: you ought to track down a copy of Rex's heartfelt single, "You Take My Breath Away" -- which I think was in that movie. And no trashy 70s musical fest would be complete without Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, which I recently tried to watch and couldn't, or The Pirate Movie, featuring Kristy MacNichol, which I haven't seen in years and still live in fear of.

Name: Monika
Subject: More trashy cinema
-- Oct 21, 1999 at 2:23AM
Mr. Repsher, the movie with Rex Smith you mentioned is called "Sooner or Later", made in 1979. And no, my last name is not Lewinsky. (like I haven't heard that one five million times!)

Let's all have a trashy movie musical fest with Xanadu and Can't Stop the Music back to back!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Oct 21, 1999 at 12:43AM
Monika (Lewinsky?), I have to admit Sonny and Kira were made for each other. And they should have had at least one hard-core sex scene with full frontal nudity. Had that been the case, the movie would have outdone Star Wars and Jaws at the box office, combined.

Name: Monika
Subject: Xanadu
-- Oct 18, 1999 at 1:27PM
I think this movie *is* cheesy but it's also a lot of fun to watch. The dance scene where the 40s group meets the Tubes and they all dance together says it all for people who love trashy cinema, such as myself. As for the "love story", you have to admit that Sonny and Kira were made for each other! The soundtrack is great! My best friend is a swing dance instructor and uses "Whenever You're Away From Me" in her classes. So no matter what the critics say, "Xanadu" is a pop culture phenomenon.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: "X"
-- Oct 17, 1999 at 8:57PM
My favorite part was Olivia Newton-John tooling around in satin hot pants. But I digress.

Name: Henderson
Subject: "X"
-- Oct 13, 1999 at 3:13PM
My favortie part of this movie is the giant "X" they use as a wipe that shows up during the big skating scene at the end. When I saw that as a kid, I thought it was really cool. I went to skating rinks a lot as a kid, but none as cool as Xanadu, and none with floating "X"s that would dissolve into the next scene!!!!!!!!!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: fabulous cd
-- Oct 12, 1999 at 4:04AM
Michelle, no qualms with me on the soundtrack call, but it did signal the beginning of the end for ELO. I can listen to it now and recognize it as a fairly good time capsule of that awkward timein the late 70s/early 80s where rock bands weren't quite sure what to do with themselves and incorporated disco and a very smooth production style into their sound. Lynne already had the sound down, he simply played with disco and got burned a little. And Sherry, the album has been re-released and, if not available at your local record outlet, is easily found at online venues like CD Now. Enjoy!

Name: sherryg363
Subject: art in movie
-- Oct 11, 1999 at 10:36PM
can anyone tell me what happened to the music albums from the movie xanadu?
Thanks, Sherryg363@aol.com

Name: michelle
Subject: fabulous cd
-- Oct 8, 1999 at 2:07PM
The mere fact that I'm in this page indicates that i have some interest in the film. William, you are correct. The movie is bad, bad, bad. But please don't knock the soundtrack. I have it on CD & Vinyl and have always maintained that it is one of the most underrated timepieces of its era. How about "Dancin'"? That is one of the coolest, campest tunes around. Sure, it's trash, but it's good trash. The beauty of Xanadu is that it's not trying to be the camp cult-film that it has become. I approach the movie with humour because it approaches itself with none - I think they honestly thought they were creating a wild, mystical juxtaposition of ancient greek mythology with disco and rollerskates. You've gotta love them for that!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: xanau
-- Oct 4, 1999 at 9:35PM
Axel F., eh? 80's references abound. Loni Anderson? Who's next? D. Johnson? Cyndi L.? All I know is this -- every time I get one of those "you have mail" notices in my email box from the editors of Leisure Suit, I am 99% sure it will be regarding a new comment on Xanadu. They're going to write, "The guy who wrote that article on Xanadu" on my tombstone.

Name: LONI
Subject: XANADU
-- Oct 4, 1999 at 9:51AM
I LOVED THE MOVIE. FINE SKATING SCEENS. I LOVED THE ENDING. I ALSO LOVED MICHAEL BECK.

Name: axel fartburgler
Subject: xanau
-- Oct 4, 1999 at 3:42AM
feverishly i typed in xanadu ,as the search engines cogs whirred
i couldnt believe my luck.
there really is sense in the world when you discover people find time to discuss the most hellishly bad but yet beautifully stylish peice of crap ever commited to celluloid.
Xanadu deserves a place in the same hall of fame
as the likes of Baccara(yeah i have got all the records)and Houseparty - you will know it if you are a Anglo like me.
Xanadu took the art of
grad 1 rollerskating
to dizzy heights.I will treasure my copy forever.

Name: The Editors Respond
Subject: Re: Xanadu/ONJ
-- Sep 17, 1999 at 2:02AM
Bill--
You can rest assured *I* recall "Cotton Candy". I distinctly recall the brunette female member of the group with the "feather" haircut playing strip poker with the rest of the band. This was before I was old enough to realize there was an FCC (I was up late watching the flick with my sister and our baby-sitter, both of whom had "feather" haircuts)and I actually thought I'd get to see the girl naked. But, wouldn't you know, just as she was going to show her wares, something interrupted them all (perhaps they had to go rock??)

Either way, you gave me a nice big Proustian Rush just mentioning the title.

--Jordan@LeisureSuit.net

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu/ONJ
-- Sep 17, 1999 at 1:00AM
Jeff, judging by the bizarre and unanticipated response to this article, I think it's time for Xanadu II, which will revive Olivia's sagging career. Only this time around, she gets nakes and curses. Jody, here's one to stump you: a tele-movie by Ron Howard called Cotton Candy about a struggling rock band of "losers" who go all-out and take on the big rock band in town in a talent show. The big rock band has a lead singer with a shag haircut and walks around bare-chested in a tuxedo jacket and pants. The band does a turgid heavy metal version of Clapton's version of "I Shot the Sherriff." Why am I remembering this? Because it's one of the few 70s bombs that I haven't seen since. There was also a Rex Smith movie where he plays a rock star who falls for a 13-year-old (!) fan. (She looked older, man.) Anyone remember the title of this? Ah, memories.

Name: Jody
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Sep 15, 1999 at 5:01PM
>>I think someone >>somewhere should have a >>film festival of "bad" >>70s flicks showing all >>the ones I mentinoed in >>the article: Sgt. >>Pepper's Lonely Hearts >>Club Band, Roller >>Boogie, Foxes, Can't >>Stop the Music, The >>Pirate Movie, FM, Times >>Square, Rock'n'Roll >>High School, Thank God >>It's Friday, Get Crazy, >>Phantom of the >>Paradise, Over the >>Edge, Death Race 2000 >>and The Stunt Man.

I can't believe how many of those I've seen.

Name: Jeff Walden
Subject: Xanadu/ONJ
-- Sep 15, 1999 at 4:38PM
I have to say that this was no Grease, but wasn't as bad as Two of a Kind. Olivia is not the best actress...she has come a ways though. She even made the comment that she knew the movie was bad, during the dailies. A friend of mine once said this was just a long ONJ video. I happen to like the movie, but I like anything ONJ does. I wouldn't say I love it and it will never be a classic...but she was in it and I liked it. I wish she could find a vehicle now to promote her career a little more. She does have a new movie coming out this spring "Sordid Lives" which is an independent production as was her last movie "It's My Party." Can't wait to see it.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Sep 14, 1999 at 10:53PM
Ohm, I can't believe the mileage I've gotten out of this article either -- it's downright bizarre. I think someone somewhere should have a film festival of "bad" 70s flicks showing all the ones I mentinoed in the article: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Roller Boogie, Foxes, Can't Stop the Music, The Pirate Movie, FM, Times Square, Rock'n'Roll High School, Thank God It's Friday, Get Crazy, Phantom of the Paradise, Over the Edge, Death Race 2000 and The Stunt Man. I would get a shag hair cut just for this event -- and come on rollerskates in a pair of white satin shorts, you know, the 70s kind, where my balls would almost be hanging out.

Name: O. M.
Subject: Xanadu
-- Sep 14, 1999 at 6:06AM
What I can't believe is that there is a forum for discussing this insipid little piece of disco-era hangnailishness. Not that I don't have the movie, my second copy. I purchased the first copy the moment it came out in around, oh, 1981...on VHS, and it cost $80.00 then, tell me that ain't love! Now, my kid loves this movie as much as I did, we don't agree on anything else...go figure.
Actually though, what with all the swing dance crazes and the resuscitation of '70's and '80's pop/rock careers ala VH1, it appears that Xanadu isn't so much a warped link to our past as it was a view of the future. Frightening thought, that. Whatever else is said about it, I still love the movie, still love Olivia, and I forgive those who have transgressed against good taste in the making of this film.
But like Lee, the executive movie pro, who actually might have a say in what goes down in history, or at least on film...if we aren't going to do anything to make better movies, then we deserve to see what we do. You know what else? I didn't really care if I saw Olivia naked, but sure, if she was gonna...what I really relished was her CUSSING, in Two of a Kind...thrill a minute, that one!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: RE: Xanadu
-- Sep 12, 1999 at 1:28AM
Lee, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (starring the Bee Gees and Peter Frampton) is better than a lot of stuff out there now. Olivia as role model, eh? What happened at the end of Grease? She had to turn into a saucy tart to get her man, Travolta. Although as I've stated a few times, had she gotten naked in any of her movies, my 16-year-old hat would have blown off my neck. Congratulations on becoming an executive movie producer. That's cool, but something even cooler: an executive movie producer on rollerskates.

Name: Lee
Subject: RE: Xanadu
-- Sep 11, 1999 at 6:37PM
Growing up in that time frame, I think Xanadu was a lot better than other junk out now, besides Olivia was safe as a role model for little girls back then compared to Madonna. As a mother, I hope there are other role models like Olivia for little girls today. P.S. Following Olivia's career closely while growing up, I was intrigued by the movie business, now I am an executive movie producer. Yes, dreams can come alive!!!!!

Name: jerry3rd
Subject: XANADU
-- Aug 30, 1999 at 2:16PM
I HAVE SEE ALL OF OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN MOVIES,LIKE GREASE,TWO OF A KIND,XANADU,ECT.I THINK SHE IS A GOOD ACTORESS

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: XANADU
-- Aug 30, 1999 at 10:49AM
Ditto for Olivia Newton-John. Olivia Newton, if you read this, please email me.

Name: LONI H.
Subject: XANADU
-- Aug 30, 1999 at 8:28AM
I LOVED THE MOVIE.IT WAS A FOURTY TYPE MOVIE STYLEABOUT MICHAEL BECK HE HAS BEEN ON WALKER TEXAS RANGER TWICE,ALSO ON MURDER SHE WROTE AND DIGNOSIS MURDER ONCE. ALSO HAS DOON SEVERAL MOVIES. HE NOW READS ON AUDIO TAPES FOR JOHN GRISHAM BOOKS.AND IS VERY GOOD AT IT. HE HAS GRAY HAIR NOW, AND IS VERY GOOD LOOKING. I WOULD LOVE TO MEET HIM. MICHAEL IF YOU READ THIS PLEASE E-MAIL ME.

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN
-- Aug 22, 1999 at 1:35PM
Woof. Lauren. I'm afraid to ask the question, but feel it's necessary. If Xanadu is the best movie you've ever seen, what is the worst? And please don't say Roller Boogie, because if you thought Xanadu was that good...

Name: LAUREN
Subject: OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN
-- Aug 22, 1999 at 12:32AM
XANADU IS THE BEST MOVIE I HAVE EVER SEEN!!!!!!

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Pare
-- Aug 16, 1999 at 8:17PM
I don't know what singer you're talking about, but, boy, do I remember Diane Lane. Awoogah! Ry Cooder did the soundtrack to that movie, and the Blasters had a song or two on it. And lest we forget bad boy Willem Dafoe in a pair of leather bib overalls. I once saw him buying a fax machine at the Soho branch of Staples Superstore. He didn't look so tough.

Name: Art
Subject: Pare
-- Aug 15, 1999 at 11:34PM
I know you wanna end this,,,but did you ever see Streets of Fire? That wasn't bad with Pare and some good tunes...when I was in the marines they would show us scenes from that movie, the singer whose name escapes...to get us pumped up for "liberty"...marine talk for off time...later

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Aug 15, 1999 at 11:05PM
Last I heard of Beck, he was getting a lot of B-movie work and the occasional bit part in action flicks. A shame, too -- he deserves better, a lot like Michael Pare, of Eddie and the Cruisers fame, another wacky flick I have a perverse taste for. Now, if you'll excuse me, Art, I have to rollerskate back into my wall mural and boogie with all the other gods.

Name: Art
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 14, 1999 at 6:20PM
haha...no i'm not Beck's publicist..and I dont wanna start a stink either. Now that you brought it up, whatever happened to him? The Warriors was alot of fun, I was a college student in the Bronx when it came out..Oh by the way, I also spent the summer of 80 at the Jersey shore and distinctly remember"Magic" playing on the air when I was cruising the boardwalk,,,thanks for the memory...

Name: William S. Repsher Responds
Subject: Re: Xanadu
-- Aug 14, 1999 at 12:33PM
That's fine by me, the ironicaly-named Art. We're all entitled to dissenting opinions, and I'm certainly not going to raise a stink over someone who dug Xanadu. But I have to ask: are you Michael Beck's publicist-in-disguise trying to turn up a little controversy here?

Name: Art
Subject: Xanadu
-- Aug 14, 1999 at 7:55AM
I disagree..i think the movie was fine for what it intended to do...its not better or worse then any other movie of its genre and time,,and the movie was very popular amonst my friends,,,and the soundtrack was not bad either,,many artists at the time were wavering between the Disco and the rock or pop culture,,,

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Xanadu Revisited by William S. Repsher

Xanadu Revisited
by William S. Repsher