Echoes of Elvis: A Cinematic Ode To The King’s Legacy

– A movie review by Shriyamwada

In the engrossing cinematic excursion Elvis by director Baz Luhrmann which was released in
2022, Austin Butler offers a memorable representation of the legend, Elvis Presley. Butler’s
commitment to portraying the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll is striking. Meticulously he channels all facets
of Elvis. These include his iconic voice and enthralling stage presence. We all know how
scandalous and riveting his moves on stage were, especially for the women.
Alluding to Butler’s commitment, it exceeds simple impersonation. Butler immerses himself fully
in Elvis’s very essence. This leaves the audiences with chills and a sense of wonder.
What distinctly sets Elvis apart is its capacity to ferry audiences. It steers them through varying
stages of Elvis’s life. It begins with his early days as a hopeful musician. Including his battle with
addiction later in life.
Elvis Presley’s ex wife, Priscilla Presley stated that the movie was “beautifully done” and that it
brought tears to her and her daughter, Lisa Marie’s eyes.
At the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, Luhrmann reportedly “came close to tearing up” when he
described Priscilla’s review. The director said, “No critique, no review was ever going to mean
more to us than the one from the woman who was married to him. She said: ‘If my husband was
here today, he’d say ‘Hot damn, you are me’…it was the best review I’ve ever had.”
What makes Elvis unique compared to Luhrmann’s other films like The Great Gatsby and
Romeo and Juliet is that the film is really a story about the ‘biz,’ and the ‘show,’” Luhrmann says.
“… But it isn’t ‘Elvis did this, Elvis did that.’ It’s actually about America in the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s.
He’s at the center of culture, for the good, the bad and the ugly.” Luhrmann did not just want to
make a biopic, but a wildly ambitious movie about race, sex, music and class around those
three decades.
Given Luhrmann’s flair for larger-than-life spectacle, Elvis may well reflect the star’s spirit better
than any prior depiction. As Harper’s magazine asked in 1958, “When Elvis’ present public finds
itself, as it someday must, demesmerized by time, … what’s to become of this young man
whose life and legend are by now indistinguishable?” Luhrmann doesn’t shy away from putting
his signature touch of glamor and romance in this film too.
The film sustains a tight hold on its viewers. It fascinates them from the commencement to the
conclusion. This is achieved through its compelling narration and captivating performances. And
let’s not forget, Presley’s iconic rhinestone embedded costumes.
Undeniably one of the most impactful aspects of the film is the utilization of Butler’s voice at the
beginning which he used for singing instead of lip syncing. This sets the stage for an authentic
and immersive experience. Further, it’s a testimony to Butler’s talent and commitment. For two
years he mastered Elvis’s unique vocal style. His performance feels incredibly genuine. It feels
heartfelt.
In terms of sheer cinematic achievement, Elvis exceeds being a mere biopic. Rather it stands as
a cinematic masterpiece. It serves as a tribute to one of the greatest icons in music history. The
performances are impeccable. The narrative is compelling. Detail is meticulously attended to.
Simply put, this is a film that demands your attention.
Furthermore, it invites multiple viewings. Audiences will undoubtedly desire to savor this
experience repeatedly.