Elvis (English) Review {2.5/5} & Review Rating
Real life incidents and personalities have not just influenced art, but have often influenced films as well. Be it on well-known politicians, explorers, artists or musicians, there have been a number of films. Now, we gear up to relive the life of one of the music industry’s most influential, iconic and most loved personality, ELVIS! However, will the film, which is based on the life of Elvis Presley, woo the audience to venture into theatres or will it fall on deaf ears is the question.
ELVIS, a musical biographical film follows the story of Presley from his childhood in Tupelo, Mississippi to his rise to stardom starting in Memphis, Tennessee and his conquering of Las Vegas, Nevada. Tracing his journey through the eyes of his manager Colonel Tom Parker, the film sees Elvis Presley become the first rock 'n roll star as he changes the world with his music. Chronicling the life and career of singer and actor Elvis Presley, from his early days as a child to becoming a rock and roll star and movie star, as well as his complex relationship with his manager Colonel Tom Parker, ELVIS promises to be a roller coaster ride.
ELVIS starts detailing the childhood that Presley endured while at the same time outlining how his passion for music developed to what it was. From humble beginnings to super stardom, director Baz Luhrmann chronicles the life of Elvis Presley with massive attention to detail. Though Presley’s fame has made his known the world over, not many may know his modest beginning. Shedding light on this, Luhrmann takes the viewer on a journey through the life of the singer turned actor. Beginning the film, in from the shambles, Baz works his magic just like Presley’s music did. The first half of ELVIS is definitely a storytelling roller coaster ride interspersed with songs that have, and will be, remembered for years. Alongside this, viewers are given a brief insight into the late musician’s life, the problems he faced, the rejection, and of course the love. However, as engrossing and enrapturing the first half of the film is, the second half post interval features that much more drama. As the story progresses, the viewers are taken deeper into the life of Presley, baring his shortcomings, his trials and tribulations, his expectations, and how he dealt with it. Though told from the perspective of a now ailing Colonel Tom Parker, the film keeps its narrative neutral while telling both sides of the story. Unfortunately, due to the heavy emotional quotient in the second half of the film, the pace of ELVIS slows down considerably. However, it does manage to keep you in your seat, with some notable and clap worthy moments that alleviate the general tonality of the film.
In terms of direction, Baz Luhrmann has done well in telling the story of a legend. Even though Luhrmann approached the topic from an unconventional point of view, that of Colonel Tom Parker, he has done a beautiful job of keeping the overall narrative neutral. A special mention to the writers for integrating each characteristic and facet of the legend with reality, and for doing a stellar job in highlighting the late singer’s journey. Being a biographical musical drama Luhrmann has done a commendable job of using the songs to connect Presley’s fame with his childhood while simultaneously taking the story ahead. In fact, with each track, the gradual evolution of Presley from a hillbilly country singer to a rock ‘n roll legend can be clearly seen. Assisting Luhrmann on this venture is Elliott Wheeler, who has done an excellent job with the music. Recreating the electrifying atmosphere and the sudden craze Elvis became both Luhrmann and Wheeler have co-ordinated perfectly to tell this story.
Coming to performances, Austin Butler has quite literally brought Elvis back! Similar to what Rami Malek did with Freddy Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody; Butler has played his role to perfection. From adopting Presley’s mannerisms to speech patterns and even looking the part, Butler has gone above and beyond. However, the highlight of ELVIS has to be Tom Hanks! In a never seen before role, Hanks has redefined acting with his portrayal of Colonel Tom Parker. Despite being neither a negative or positive character, Hanks lends his role a level of menace and greed while at the same time ensuring to capture a loving and caring side as well. Once again proving why he is one of the best in the industry, Hanks will surely be remembered for this role. Come award time, thanks to his rendition of Parker, Tom Hanks stands a high chance of clinching a best supporting character award at the Oscars. Helen Thomson and Richard Roxburgh as Presley's parents do a fine job. Kelvin Harrison Jr. also leaves as a mark, as B B King.
However, the film does have its share of downers. With a second half that slows down considerably, and some moments that will leave a few wondering what exactly they meant, and yes, certain sequences being left open ended, when a clear cut end would have been better, tend to bring down the overall experience.
On the whole though, ELVIS features some spectacular performances with good music and nostalgic feel and is a definite must watch for Presley fans. However, the long duration, (2 hours 40 minutes) and the low-key promotions will certainly affect its theatrical run. At the box office, ELVIS is not expected to see big numbers coming in. Instead, catering to a niche audience, the film will see collections trickle in as time passes.
