How Grease Became a Timeless Classic and a Cultural Phenomenon

“Grease,” the 1978 musical romantic comedy, made its way into the hearts of millions of people worldwide. The film, directed by Randal Kleiser, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, tells the story of a summer romance between a greaser named Danny Zuko and a new transfer student from Australia, Sandy Olsson.

The film’s portrayal of social-class divisions, with the greasers from lower-middle or lower-class families, and their unique style, popularized by their use of hair gel, quickly became a global trend. “Grease” became the highest-grossing musical film of its time, and its success continues to endure as a classic and significant influence on pop culture.