Elvis

"Elvis" - true to its name - examines the private life and legendary songs of Elvis Presley (played by Austin Butler) through the lens of his complex relationship with his mysterious manager, Colonel Parker (Tom Hanks). The movie explores the two's relationship over the course of twenty years, starting from Presley's ascent to fame, against the background of America's changing cultural environment and loss of innocence. Priscilla Presley (played by Olivia DeJonge), one of the most crucial and influential individuals in Elvis's life, is central to this voyage.

You should expect neither the downturn nor Elvis' efforts to curry favor with Richard Nixon to be discussed in this movie. Also, the character Priscilla is actually scarcely mentioned. The whole "Elvis" movie is best seen as a showbiz pantomime, with names of renowned actors popping in and out as Kelvin Harrison Jr. took on the role of BB King and Alton Mason played Little Richard.

The focus on Elvis' liabilities to black music could have been expressed more discreetly than with rap renditions of his songs (Eminem, CeeLo Green, and Doja Cat are some of the soundtrack collaborators). "Elvis" is exaggerated, one-dimensional, and absurd, but as a work of cinematic mythologizing, it's a masterpiece!

Year of Release: 2022

Stars: Austin Butler, Tom Hank

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 78%