Baz Luhrmann‘s “Elvis” promises all the glitz and glamour expected of an Elvis Presley film but falls short in delivering the necessary depth for a 2022 audience.
Luhrmann, known for his maximalist approach to filmmaking, seems like the ideal match for a Presley biopic, yet the film’s narrative perspective through Colonel Tom Parker’s lens (played by Tom Hanks) struggles to fully engage. The story opens dramatically with Parker in a Las Vegas hospital, grappling with his tarnished reputation and reflecting on his exploitative management of Elvis (Austin Butler).
From the outset, Luhrmann’s signature aesthetic takes center stage: hospital scenes morph into the dazzling lights of Vegas, and Hanks portrays Parker with theatrical flair reminiscent of a fairy tale villain. While the film initially captivates with its blend of spectacle and critique of capitalism and racism, it eventually loses steam.
The early scenes meticulously detail Presley’s musical influences, from Gospel to Blues, effectively edited into energetic performances that highlight his evolving style. However, Hanks, despite heavy prosthetics, struggles to fully embody Parker’s complexity, veering occasionally into caricature.
Where “Elvis” excels is in its exploration of commerce and race relations, portraying Parker’s fascination with Presley’s ability to bridge cultural divides while commodifying his artistry. The film’s visual style and energetic performances, particularly Butler’s compelling portrayal of Elvis, elevate its more engaging moments, such as Presley’s defiant performances in the face of racial tensions.
Yet, as the narrative progresses into familiar biopic territory—charting Presley’s rise, personal missteps, and eventual decline—the film loses some of its early vigor. Luhrmann’s heavy reliance on Parker’s perspective limits deeper exploration of Presley’s personal struggles and cultural impact, reducing complex figures like B.B. King and Big Mama Thornton to supporting roles without meaningful depth.
“Elvis” remains a visually striking and musically rich tribute to an iconic figure, yet it misses opportunities to delve into the complexities of Presley’s legacy and the broader socio-cultural themes it touches upon.