Film: Elvis

 

GENRE: Biography, Drama
RATING: PG-13 for substance abuse, language, suggestive material
RUNTIME: 2 hours and 39 minutes
PLATFORM: Movie Theatre
STARRING: Austin Butler (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood)
Tom Hanks (Ladykillers, Apollo 13); Richard Roxburgh (Moulin Rouge)
DIRECTOR: Baz Luhrmann (Romeo + Juliet, Great Gatsby)
WRITERS: Sam Bromell (newcomer),
Craig Pearce & Luhrmann (Strictly Ballroom, Moulin Rouge, Australia),
PLOT: The life of Elvis is told through the eyes of his questionable manager Col. Parker.    

FULL DISCLOSURE: I’m a big fan of Baz Lurhmann’s work.    

STORY STUFF: I will admit that I did not know too much about Elvis’ story. I have only really heard stuff in a more mocking way -- the garish Vegas stuff and the gyrating hips. I had heard the name Col. Parker but didn’t know much about him either. So, I found this story utterly fascinating. I don’t know how much is embellished but when Lisa Marie Pressley was moved by the accuracy, I’ll give it the benefit of the doubt. The story is well paced for the most part but lingers a little too long when Elvis starts to rebel and ignores the wishes of his manager. A Christmas special takes way too much screen time to get their point across. As I usually say with long running times, this film could have befitted from a little trim, maybe twenty minutes or so. But overall, I loved learning more about Elvis Pressley, his influences, his rise to fame, his tragic downfall and everything in between.

ACTING STUFF: Butler is incredible as Elvis. He doesn’t do a cheesy over-the-top impersonation; his acting is organic and made me sympathize with this rock n roll legend. His movements, his voice, his heart, it was all amazing. I know there are people who will be put off by Hanks’ undistinguishable accent and extreme make-up, but I dug it. I think the accent is part of the mystery behind this towering figure in Elvis’ life. Hanks won’t garner an Oscar nomination, but I think Butler deserves one.

ARTISTIC STUFF: With Baz Luhrmann, you get spectacle. I love the way Luhrmann moves the camera around and plays with its angles and depth. The editing of his montages is vibrant and I love the titling graphics throughout. There is some modern R&B music peppered in this film and it’s amazing how well it fits in despite the ‘period piece’ atmosphere. Only someone like Luhrmann can pull that off. It’s a great way to highlight his love of music which can be found in all his films. This one is another banger.

VERDICT: Four and half stars out of five
SEE IT IF: You like Baz’ work or are interested in Elvis’ life.
UPCOMING REVIEW:  Minions: The Rise of Gru