Elvis reviewed by Dana Archer

Director - Baz Luhrmann

Certificate - 12A

Running Time: 159 minutes

Starring - Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Richard Roxburgh and Xavier Samuel's

Platform - Cinema

Directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks. This epic od theatrical storytelling tells the story of Elvis. I found the non-linear aspects in the first 20 minutes to be very on trend for Luhrmann's style. We are introduced to the devious Colonel Tom Parker in a vulnerable state in hospital -he is no less the villain however even as our narrator. As the film progresses, we learn of Elvis, his origins, and his career. This is a vibrant lively film one that reflects Elvis’s performances. As the film progresses, we learn the level of toxicity that Tom Parker had over Elvis. The kinesis of cinematography and thrill of the performances blended with modern music beautifully bring this spectacle to life. Tom Hanks is excellent as the prolific Colonel Tom. But the highlight of this film is Austin Butler whose performance as Elvis is spectacular- he immerses himself into the roll to a point where you only see Elvis - I hope his performance receives award acclaim. Touching on the backbone of Elvis's music and the origin in African American Rock N Roll only further layers this fascinating film, he was heavily inspired by Gospel and the Blues - these were his roots which he never forgot throughout his career. Even when he became a gimmick, or the industry tried to tame him - he always reverted back to his rebellious roots. As someone who knew very little about Elvis, I found this film a gut-punching tribute to one of the greatest performers of all time. At almost 3 hours this film never drags. A beautiful tribute to the King of Rock N Roll and one that doesn't shy away from the darker elements of the young man's life.