Xanadu (1980) Review in 2024
Xanadu is a 1980 musical fantasy film that combines music, dance, and mythology. The movie follows a young artist who discovers a magical roller-skating rink in ancient Greece.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Xanadu is not suitable for young children due to some mature themes and mild violence. However, older kids and adults may enjoy the movie's music, dance, and fantasy elements.
CineReview Recommendation
Xanadu is worth watching for fans of musicals, fantasy, and romance. However, it's not a must-see, and some viewers may find it too cheesy or predictable.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie's plot revolves around Sonny Malone, a young artist who meets Kira, a mythical roller-skating muse. Together, they try to save the magical roller-skating rink from being destroyed by a greedy developer.
Review Details
story6.00/10
The story is predictable and lacks depth, but it's engaging enough to keep you entertained. The movie's themes of creativity and self-expression are inspiring, but they're not fully developed.
acting8.00/10
The acting is generally good, with Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly delivering standout performances. However, some of the supporting actors feel miscast or underutilized.
characters7.00/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, especially Sonny and Kira. However, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped and lack depth.
direction5.00/10
The direction is competent, but it's not particularly memorable or impressive. The movie's pacing is well-balanced, but some scenes feel rushed or dragged out.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful and vibrant colors. The special effects are impressive, especially the roller-skating sequences.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Xanadu has a catchy soundtrack, impressive special effects, and a memorable performance from Olivia Newton-John.
Cons
The movie's story is predictable, the characters are underdeveloped, and the direction is unremarkable.
Notable Quotes
"I'm a dreamer, I'm a dreamer, I'm a dreamer."
"Roller skating is not just a hobby, it's a way of life."
