Xanadu

Olivia Newton-John and legendary Hollywood hoofer Gene Kelly roller-disco their way into immortality in the 1980 romantic musical fantasy powered by ELO.

Struggling freelance artist Sonny Malone’s fortunes turn around when he meets the enchanting Kira (Olivia Newton-John), a muse of an altogether higher order – she’s one of the 9 Muses of Olympus, by Zeus! – while also befriending Danny (Gene Kelly), a former big band leader with a mysterious connection to Kira.

Curator's Note

Look, the plot doesn’t hold water, but that’s not why you’re here. If you let it, Xanadu will transport you to a state of almost unbridled euphoria that transcends its clunky ‘plot’ and the bizarre but oddly compelling musical mash-up of 1940s Andrews Sisters-inspired retro-kitsch tunes and 80s glam-rock that animate the musical’s nightclub-set finale. And how about Gene Kelly on skates! The synth rock ELO soundtrack, inexplicably heart-wrenching songs written and composed by John Farrar for Newton-John and the soaring vocals of our too-soon departed songstress are what elevate Xanadu beyond a cult curio. The musical was Gene Kelly’s last on-screen role. Almost three decades after his career-defining turn in legendary Hollywood musical Singin’ in the Rain, he partnered with Newton-John in a breezy duet – ‘Whenever I’m Away from You’ – choreographed by Kenny Ortega of Saturday Night Fever fame. Though there was admittedly little spark between Newton-John and co-star Michael Beck, ONJ did meet future husband, Matt Lattanzi, on set. He’s the (handsome) dancer with the longish dark hair sporting a raspberry-coloured velour V-neck. Ah, the 1980s.

– Roberta Ciabarra; Curator, Film