mrobbins

What a wonderfully humane story, of a great man who needs to be better known for his innovations. I'm now on the lookout for a more in depth study of his work. I'm sure for one so pivotal in the treatment in those labeled as 'mad' or 'insane', that one must exist. Perhaps those who have seen this and were interested enough to investigate further, can recommend a good one

I've just seen this as one of the extras on the 2010 Australian (Region 4) DVD release of the 1945 classic "The Picture Of Dorian Gray". So if you're looking to find a permanent copy on DVD, in an excellent transfer, that's where you'll locate it. Hope that helps those who enjoyed this fabulous story

First of all I was quite intrigued to see that at least 2 of the 3 comments submitted so far (the other a nom-de-plume) were from men. Good to see that such a wonderful film as this is being seen by an audience that might not have been the target one, as this would be considered a woman's picture in old Hollywood.

Unashamedly a tearjerker, anybody that is a loving parent or has any affinity with children will be well advised to have the tissues handy. Men not quite as in touch with their emotions in public might actually wish to watch this alone. From about 10 minutes in when I saw all the unwanted babies in the hospital I could not control my tears flowing relentlessly, whether they were tears of sadness or of joy (yes there are some wonderful joyful moments but I won't say when and spoil it)

Undoubtedly a great showcase for actors, the four leads are about as perfect as one could want. Like another reviewer, I was amazed at the performances of Parker and Noseworthy, mainly because Spacek and to an only slightly lesser degree Plowright, are renowned for their work and have the accolades and awards to show for it. But the formerly lightweight teen actress and the unknown youngster more than hold their own against the formidable twosome.

The writing and performances masterfully achieve it's desired aim, to entertain (if that's the word) and inform without unneccessary grandstanding. Yes the son does seem a little too good to be true, but there are such species still left in this world, and anyway his character is not perfect and still has his teeneage insecurities and traumas.

All in all, not to be missed and reaffirmation of the human spirit

O.K. This is not a great movie. The acting is so-so and the script is virtually non-existent. But if you want to see great acting why watch an Olivia Newton-John film. Go and watch Bette Davis or Meryl Streep. It is good to see Gene Kelly dancing again, and of course he's not as athletic as he once was but he is also 30-40 years older than he was in his heydey. And when did he ever win awards for his thesping, anyway ? Xanadu is simply innocuous fluff, like so many of the so-called "classic" Hollywood musicals of the '40's & '50's. Like them it is the music that counts, and among them are 2 #1 classics of yesteryear, Olivia's "It's Magic" & the title song performed with E.L.O.,plus a couple of other smaller hits E.L.O.'s "I'm Alive" & O.N.J. & Cliff Richard's "Suddenly". I have always enjoyed the 1940's meets 1980's musical pastiche "Dancin'", between Olivia & The Tubes & the finale is excellent, with Livvy performing a medley of diverse tunes in an eye catching array of costumes. In fact it's worth admission alone for lovely Livvy in micro-mini & knee high boots, strutting the stage & shaking her booty at the camera. Who ever said this girl wasn't sexy ??.