Don’t be fooled by the title of this film. The majority of it is about Elvis, but told through the eyes of his long-time and suspicious manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). The film spans his whole life, from his humble beginnings in Mississippi. It is here they pay homage to the African American gospel blues and traditions which inspired Elvis to his ultimate rise to the best-selling solo artist of all time. Colonel Parker saw early potential in Elvis and earned him a recording contract with RCA. He then helped him navigate the music industry and his short-lived film career. However, Parker was a mysterious character, and took more money for himself than he let on. In 1980, a judge ruled that he defrauded the Presley Estate by millions, and most people contribute him to Presley’s untimely death as he worked Presley too hard in the name of money.
Butler Dedicates Himself to this Film
Playing the title role of Elvis is an incredible opportunity for any actor, and Director Baz Lurhaman auditioned many well-known names for the role. These included Harry Styles, Ansel Elgort, and Miles Teller. However, Luhrmann wanted an unknown actor to play Elvis, as it would help the audience’s reaction to the film. They would be able to see Elvis for who he is — rather than a very famous actor doing an impression.
Austin Butler plays the role, and a lot has come out recently about his dedication to the film. It was said he didn’t see his friends and family for two years and became obsessed with Presley. His commitment has definitely paid off, as his performance is a tour de force, where he acts, dances, and sings exactly like the King himself. A lot has been made about him in recent interviews, as he still sounds exactly like Elvis, showing his dedication. This performance will definitely earn him his first Oscar nomination, following in the footsteps of Rami Malek who won the Oscar for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury, and he didn’t even sing. Could Butler take home that coveted trophy?
Hanks’ Colonel Parker — Not the Nice Guy We Know and Love
Alongside him is Tom Hanks. He plays a character that is the complete opposite of the warm, friendly personas he usually plays. Colonel Parker is completely unlikeable and often perceived as a parody of an entertainment manager. In the first trailer he says, “Some people make me out to be the villain of this story…” and he lives up to this. When he meets Presley, he has stalked him for some time now and makes him an offer he can’t refuse. Once Elvis is a star, he is trapped by Parker to do corny movies and a Christmas special, which goes against the career Presley wants.
Overall, “Elvis” is glitzy and entertaining, and includes a star-making performance by Austin Butler. It’s also a different kind of performance from Hanks, an actor we know and love. Long-time Elvis fans will not stop falling in love with this film. For younger audiences, it will introduce them to Presley and allow for his legacy to continue for years to come.
“Elvis” is currently only available to watch in theaters.
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