The Best Movies of Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John has been in the recording industry for 40 years. She's had enormous success and fame. In the movie industry, she is best known for her role in "Grease," but there are many other feature films that showcase her unique talents.

"A Mom for Christmas" is a magical tale from 1990. In this classic made-for-television Christmas movie, Olivia Newton-John plays a mannequin named Amy. Jessica is a lonely eleven-year-old being raised by her single dad. Since her mother died in early childhood, she's been a bit neglected, despite the good intentions of her dad. She makes a wish in a mall wishing well for a mom for the holidays, and Amy (Olivia Newton-John) is sent to fulfill that wish. The two learn a lot from one another, and a romance of sort ensues between Amy and Jessica's dad. There's a fairy tale quality to this Disney film, and it's ultimately one of the most fulfilling and fun Christmas movies ever made.

"Grease" is inevitably on this list. The movie about the 1950s also reflects so much about the 1970s from its cast that it serves as nostalgia for both decades. The music is full of life and fun, with music added by John Farrar, a frequent songwriter for Olivia Newton-John. It improves upon the original play version, and it comes to life with vibrant performances and beautiful cinematography. The fifties clothes and music are insta-smile guarantees. It's an all-around well-done film, and it's stood the test of time. Olivia gains new fans weekly, as new kids discover its cinematic fun.

"It's My Party" is a movie that is perhaps one of the hardest ones you will ever watch. Yet, it is worth seeing. It poses tough ethical questions about how one should handle the end of his life when dying of AIDS. The movie takes place over a party held to celebrate the life of a man dying from AIDS, as a prelude to his plan to take his own life to end his suffering. Olivia has a small, yet very memorable role in this powerful film. I'm glad that I saw it, and I I own it. Yet, it's not one you watch in repeat.

"Xanadu" cannot be discounted. It's a great movie musical, in which Olivia danced with movie musical alumnus Gene Kelly. The music from the film became very successful, but the film itself was not met with initial praise and success. Through the year, however, it's attained a cult status, cited as a film favorite by many, including the lovable character of Phoebe in the hit show "Friends." I dare you to sit through this film and not want to sing, dance and rollerskate. It recently got the Broadway play treatment, so you might find it coming to a live theater near you as well.

Last, yet certainly not least, is the independent hit film by the talented Del Shores, "Sordid Lives." It is a great slice of Southern life, personalities and mischief. Hard to summarize and inviting to watch time and again, this movie is a must-see for any Olivia Newton-John fan. It also enjoyed a run as a series, in which Olivia reprised her role as Bitsy Mae. I recommend getting both the movie and the series, both of which are available on DVD, and enjoying a marathon.

Sources cited:
http://www.onlyolivia.com
http://www.olivianewton-john.com
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000556/