Watchlist Spotlight:
Xanadu (1980)
Directed by Robert Greenwald and featuring choreography by the legendary Kenny Ortega, Xanadu is a roller-skating, neon-lit fantasy musical that has become a cult classic in the decades since its release. The film stars Olivia Newton-John as Kira, a muse from Mount Olympus sent to inspire struggling artist Sonny (played by Michael Beck) to open a nightclub. Oh, and did we mention Gene Kelly co-stars? It’s a swirl of fantasy, disco, animation (thanks to a Don Bluth sequence!), and pure ‘80s spectacle—set to an electric soundtrack by Electric Light Orchestra and Olivia herself.
Though Xanadu flopped with critics at the time, it’s since gained a loyal following for its bold aesthetic, wild charm, and total camp appeal.
Here’s what Reagan Lamb had to say after a recent group watch:
"Xanadu is a film that people either have never heard of or they have strong feelings about. In my opinion, the best way to experience this movie is with your friends. Everyone needs to gather around and take this in. Truly, it has many flaws and everyone involved in the making of this movie agrees.
But! You get to see Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly dance (with Kenny Ortega's choreography!), hear ELO's music with Olivia’s singing, funny transitions, a Don Bluth animation, and classic 80s vibes. Supposedly this movie started the leg warmers craze back then, but you didn't hear it from me.
I had a fun time, loved the music, and giggled a lot. Sonny, played by Michael Beck, was a bit stiff which only made it more amusing for me. Olivia definitely picked up his slack. The storyline sometimes felt a little lost as well, but it wasn’t too bad to follow. Truly, I don’t wanna spoil anything—I think it’s best to go in blind.
Overall, this movie is one you’re either gonna love or hate. I loved it for the campiness, the music, and the vibes. Gather your friends and try out Xanadu—you’ll definitely have a time!"
Reagan Lamb
The Residence (Netflix, 2024)
From executive producer Shonda Rhimes, The Residence is a White House–set murder mystery that promises scandal, secrets, and a cast of standout talent including Uzo Aduba, Susan Kelechi Watson, and Giancarlo Esposito. Based on the book The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House by Kate Andersen Brower, the show takes a fictionalized spin, imagining a high-stakes whodunnit unfolding behind closed doors at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
The setup is strong—prestige meets intrigue. But does it deliver on its potential? Here’s what Shelby Tyre had to say:
"I was so excited for this show—love a good murder mystery, and it takes place in the White House! Uzo Aduba, Susan Kelechi Watson, and Giancarlo Esposito all give amazing performances as expected. But the show itself... had me in the first few episodes and then completely lost me.
Without spoiling anything: it became incredibly redundant, never really giving you the tools to solve the case yourself. It felt like being stuck on a ferris wheel that just kept spinning with no real destination. The only reason I kept watching was to find out who did it—and even that payoff didn’t feel worth it.
There were moments that were funny and entertaining, but ultimately I sped through it just to get to the end. The reveal tried to be dramatic, but instead it made me want to turn it off.
With a cast this stacked, it’s weird to feel this disappointed. Would I recommend it? Maybe—just to see if I’m crazy. But would I rewatch or tune in for season two? Absolutely not."
Shelby Tyre
