Many people were saddened by Olivia Newton-death John last month, but those of us who were raised on Grease were most affected. Newton-John played Sandy in the 1978 picture, which starred John Travolta as Danny Zuko and is now widely regarded as a cinematic masterpiece. She fought breast cancer for many years after being diagnosed in 1992; now, in her memory, AMC is screening Grease at a discounted price this weekend, with a portion of the earnings benefiting research into the disease. AMC CEO Adam Aron tweeted the news, which is wonderful for a number of reasons.
Not only is a portion of the proceeds being donated to a foundation in Newton-name, John’s but the film itself continues to draw audiences long after its first run. For a noble purpose that hopefully will honour the Newton-John legacy, fans will get to experience Grease like never before. To remember Olivia Newton-John, several American movie theatres will play Grease on the big screen once more this weekend, as Aron announced on Twitter.
Admission is only $5, and via our charitable arm, AMC Cares, we will give $1 to breast cancer research for every ticket sold. Personally, I will always treasure her performance as Sandy in Grease. When I’m feeling down, I put on the movie and sing my heart out to “Hopelessly Devoted to You.” The film’s return to cinemas for a sad cause, but it’s also a celebration of Newton-contributions; John’s impact on her performances will resonate with audiences for centuries to come, and this is a great opportunity to honour her memory.