Daily Archives: May 24, 2024

This Is Elvis (1981)

This Is Elvis
Written and Directed by Malcolm Leo and Andrew Solt
1981/US
IMDb page
First viewing/YouTube renta

 

 

I hope I didn’t bore you too much with my life story. — Elvis Presley

An uneasy but interesting mix of biopic and documentary that features revealing footage of Elvis Presley’s journey from humble country boy to King of Rock and Roll to tragic figure.

 

The film attempts to tell its story using a mix of actors and seldom seen footage of Elvis.  We see early TV appearances, scenes from his movies, and concert footage.  Home movies and newsreels are included.  It is sad to see his disintegration in the 70’s.  Non-stop touring left him looking both high and ill as he struggles through his lines on stage.  Only his voice remained.  And what a voice he had.

Recommended!