Elvis (2022)

The 2022 film, Elvis, is a gripping, heartbreaking, unforgettable piece of art.

The film starts off with an eerie scene involving character Tom Parker (Tom Hanks), roaming the halls of an isolated casino, based in Las Vegas. A place that was fond to Mr Presley, but not always for the best reasons. The tone created immediately focussed my mind onto the big screen.

Going into the cinema not knowing too much about Elvis’ personal life, led me not expecting much within the storyline. But, being familiar with Luhrmann’s previous work, I expected a unique, quirky style, compared to your average musical documentary. Whilst sat in the cinema, you’re connected to the past work of films; Moulin Rouge and Romeo & Juliet. The familiar atmosphere creeps into the theatre room.

As each minute went by and learning more about Elvis, I enjoyed the film more and more. Elvis’ personality (performed by Austin Butler) was clearly shown, along with his charming act. This proves how easily he affected peoples lives, most of the time for the better. Butler’s performance throughout the entire film was remarkable. He shape-shifted into Elvis and stayed in character for the whole duration. Being familiar with Butler’s past work, I didn’t expect anything less from him.

Around the middle of the film, I found that it was dragging on a bit more. This was as Elvis’ downfall was being introduced and Parker’s character was being shown more. Because of Elvis’ downfall taking course over many years, this must have been hard to capture within 20 minutes or so, but was executed well. A disclaimer for some sensitive viewers, the editing may be overwhelming. And some scenes contain drug use, due to it being rated as a 12A. So I would recommend this film to early teens with adult supervision and ages above.

Other than that, nothing but praise should be awarded to the entire cast; Olivia DeJonge (Priscilla Presley), Austin Butler and Tom Hanks. Just to name a few, the cast have received nothing but kind words and compliments from the real members of the Presley family.

After seeing and being involved in many documentaries about her husband, Priscilla Presley mentioned that the whole cast of this film, ‘Did it right.’

If you liked films ‘Rocketman (Dexter Fletcher, 2019)’ and ‘Bohemian Rhapsody (Bryan Singer, 2018)’, then you will definitely enjoy this film.

A scene that didn’t leave a dry eye in the room was the ending scene. Shown on the big screen was Elvis performing his last version of ‘Unchained Melody’, which I would return back to the cinema just to watch again.

After going back to the cinema to watch it for a second time, I had fully grasped the meaning of Elvis’ life. Which led to non stop thinking about the film in general and non stop listening to his music. So a kind warning to all, you will become Elvis obsessed, along with Austin Butler obsessed.