What are the top five rolls for actress Olivia Newton-John? Without a doubt, some people will agree with the following list and others will think of additional roles that in their opinion, were a better fit for her. However, you can’t argue with the fact that the five roles listed in this article are undoubtedly some of her most entertaining parts that she ever played, not to mention some of the most notable. The truth is, these five rolls practically defined her as an actress. If you haven’t seen these movies, it is well worth your time to sit down and watch them. Who knows, you just might end up finding a new favorite to add to your collection.
1. Xanadu (1980)
You may not think of a science fiction movie as the place where Olivia Newton-John is most likely to show up, but that is exactly what happened with this movie. She stars with Cliff Richard and the famous Gene Kelly. Basically, the movie is about dreams coming to fruition, but it isn’t just through hard work or perseverance. Remember, this is a science fiction movie. The twist is that dreams come true because Olivia Newton-John makes it happen.
2. Grease (1978)
Who doesn’t love a good musical? Some people are admittedly not big fans of musicals in general, but even most people that wouldn’t necessarily consider themselves aficionados of this particular genre found themselves enjoying Grease. The dancing is enough to keep your attention by itself, as is the singing. Perhaps the real thing that makes this movie so endearing is the blossoming love between Sandy, Olivia Newton-John’s character and John Travolta, who plays Danny. In addition, the whole thing almost makes you feel like you are back in high school again, no matter how long you have been out.
3. Two of a Kind (1983)
The reason that so many people were excited for this movie is because of the cast. Once again, Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta were starring in a movie together, along with Gene Hackman. When you have a cast like that, it is bound to generate a lot of interest, especially after the success and subsequent fan following of Grease that came out a few years earlier.
4. Sordid Lives (2000)
Not all of Olivia Newton-John’s rolls came during the 70s and 80s. One of her more pivotal roles was associated with this film, which she did much later in life. Playing Bitsy Mae Harling, she turned in a superb performance. Perhaps what really attracted audiences was watching her in such a role, as the entire movie focuses on the struggles of people who are normally not in the spotlight all that much. Think of it as Twin Peaks meets the trailer park. The movie even became successful enough to have a television series of the same name that followed it, one in which she chose to reprise her role.
5. Funny Things Happen Down Under (1965)
Without a doubt, Olivia Newton-John was making a place for herself in musicals, even before Grease. In one of her earlier roles, she participated in a musical that was essentially a comedy set to music. As an independent film, this one not only paved the way for future successful roles, but also proved that she had both the talent and the drive to succeed.
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