Movie spotlight
Kira, a Greek muse incarnated on Earth to inspire people, helps Dan McGuire and an artist named Sonny Malone to meet. She inspires them to build a huge disco roller rink called Xanadu.
Sonny Malone, a struggling young artist in Venice, California, dreams of opening his own roller disco. He encounters Kira, a mysterious and beautiful woman who inspires his artistic endeavors. Unbeknownst to Sonny, Kira is one of the muses sent from Mount Olympus to inspire mortals, and their connection leads to a magical journey where Sonny gets the chance to fulfill his dreams, but faces the challenge of choosing between his earthly desires and the divine.
Xanadu was a critical and commercial disappointment upon its release, widely panned for its thin plot, over-the-top style, and awkward blend of musical numbers and narrative. Despite its initial poor reception, the film has since garnered a cult following for its unique aesthetic, memorable soundtrack, and nostalgic appeal, particularly among fans of 1980s pop culture.
Praised for its vibrant visual style and catchy ELO soundtrack.
Criticized for its nonsensical plot and over-the-top performances.
Considered a charmingly campy cult classic despite its flaws.
Google audience: Audiences generally found Xanadu to be an enjoyable, albeit bizarre, musical experience. Many appreciated the nostalgic soundtrack and the energetic roller-skating sequences. However, some viewers found the plot confusing and the overall tone to be overly cheesy.
Nominated for Golden Globe Awards for Best Original Song ("Suspended in Time") and Best Original Score. Also nominated for a Razzie Award for Worst Director and Worst Actress (Olivia Newton-John).
The iconic roller disco set for the movie was built on the former site of the historic Coconut Grove nightclub in Los Angeles.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources
I have watched this classic musical many times, and will again I am sure. My wife and I both enjoy it as a fun break from life. There was one time when I was feeling critical and cynical when we watched it, and I panned it in places, such a...