Sizzles when the music is on, fizzles otherwise

Rating: 7/10 (3 August 2004)

It's simple to describe "Grease". When the musical numbers are on the screen the movie sizzles (for the most part). When the music is gone the movie fizzles, especially when John Travolta is not on screen.

On the whole "Grease" is an enjoyable film. It's not without its flaws though. A few of the musical numbers are downright awful. I especially dislike both of Stockard Channing's songs and since Channing is such a strong actress one must put the blame on the material itself. I have never been a big fan of the "Beauty School Dropout" number but it has started to grow on me through the years.
As I said the film nearly washes out everytime the music stops and the story tries to move forward. One major flaw in the story has Travolta abruptly changing his mind about hanging with his friends to try and win Olivia Newton-John back. I don't mind that but the script gives Travolta no reasons for this change. It just happens. Another flaw is that these high school "teenagers" look too old to be believed.
On the plus side are the terrific musical numbers. The dance contest sequence is far and away the best in the movie. As for the songs "Summer Nights" and "You're the One That I Want" take top honors for me with "Sandy", which takes place at a drive-in, and "Hopelessly Devoted to You" come in a close second.
It's clearly obvious why Travolta became a superstar. He lights up the screen everytime he's on it. And when he sings and dances all bets are off. He's a captivating performer. One may wonder why Travolta chose to do "Grease" following the blockbuster success of his first major film, "Saturday Night Fever". The answer is simple. Travolta signed on and shot "Grease" before "Fever" was released. I have a feeling had he known the phenomenon "Fever" was going to be he would have either done another project in between or turned this down all together.
"Grease" is an enjoyable romp but far from the classic some have touted it as being. I say watch and enjoy and you'll be humming some of the tunes for days after.