Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
Director: Baz Luhrmann, Warner Bros. Pictures.
Arguably the greatest entertainer that ever lived, singer, actor and ‘King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’ — Elvis Presley — has left an indelible mark on popular culture that has endured to this day. He had that unique star quality that made him one of the most influential artists in his era of music.
The biographical musical drama Elvis tells the story from the standpoint of his manager Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks is excellent in this role). In 1997, he is on his deathbed, reflecting on how he first met the man who would go on to become regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century. Presley rose to fame in the 1950s while maintaining a complex relationship with Parker.
Elvis sure had the moves – from his swivelling hips to his rubbery legs – which made him a global phenomenon. In 1956, he had this to say when talking about his way of moving on stage: “Some people tap their feet, some people snap their fingers, and some people sway back and forth. I just sorta do ’em all together, I guess.”
He certainly knew how to excite his audience, but not all of the public was impressed with the young entertainer. Many parents feared that his music was corrupting their children, and racist politicians also attacked him.
In the early days, Elvis had battled a poverty-ridden childhood with his parents Vernon (Richard Roxburgh) and Gladys (Helen Thomson). He finds music to be a salvation, even though he is ridiculed by his peers because of his fascination with the African American music of Memphis’ Beale Street.
While stationed in Germany, Elvis meets Priscilla Beaulieu (played by Olivia DeJonge), and upon discharge, he resumes his career-making concert tours and films while Parker’s control of his life becomes even stronger. Elvis is heartbroken by the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, wishing to become more politically outspoken in his music, while Parker simply wanted him to sing light-hearted tunes that would be best sellers.
Now, Elvis is brought back to life – 45 years after his death – in a career-defining performance by newcomer Austin Butler that’s earned near-universal acclaim.
Elvis is directed by Oscar-winner Baz Luhrmann (Moulin Rouge!, Romeo + Juliet, Strictly Ballroom), who co-wrote the screenplay with Sam Bromell, Craig Pearce and Jeremy Doner, from a story by Luhrmann and Doner.
Whether you like to Shake, Rattle and Roll or get All Shook Up dancing in your Blue Suede Shoes … after seeing Elvis you will be among the many who will be singing: I’ll Remember You!
- Elvis is screening in cinemas
