Elvis (2022) - It Sounds Good...But Doesn't Look Good

 

Streaming on HBO Max 

For Purchase on Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, and YouTube 

    Director Baz Luhrmann has a lot in common with director Michael Bay: they both have an eccentric sense of style that distinguishes them. However, they also share the delusion that their style applies to every aspect of their movies, regardless of whether or not it fits. This laser-focused mindset often causes their movies to feel too one-note, with no sense of variety or narrative cohesion. While both directors can still deliver one or two unforgettable moments in their films, neither appears willing or able to step back, take a breath, and evaluate the best approach toward their projects. Other than how often they can swirl the camera around (or how many cuts they can make in one minute) before the audience passes out from overstimulation. 

    Luhrmann's latest offering, Elvis, a biopic about one of the many Kings of Rock & Roll, is another example of his tendency to overuse his style and the result of a fantastic idea for a stage show that's been shoe-horned into a movie. While the music and performances are incredible, the movie is too long and hyperactive for its own good. As much as I like aspects of the film, it simply doesn't work as a whole. 

    The main story revolves around the relationship between Elvis Presley (Austin Butler) and his long-time manager Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). Like any other biopic about a famous musician, we see Elvis's roots, rise to stardom, and depressing downfall at the tender age of 42. We get an idea of the Elvis we always had and a glimpse of the Elvis we never got. 

    As I alluded to earlier, the movie has no sense of pacing. It jumps from one moment to another with no sense of flow. The movie distracts you from its lack of fluidity with flashy montages and seemingly random editing choices. Still, it ultimately makes the whole experience feel much longer than it is, and not in a good way. The movie may be just under three hours, but it feels like three days. 

    Despite this migraine-inducing style, the music is absolutely amazing! Growing up with "classic rock" music, I found myself filled with the proper kind of energy that artists like Elvis emanated. If nothing else, Luhrmann does know how to recreate the feeling of generational music. Credit where credit is due. 

    While Tom Hanks delivers his usual professional and engaging presence, the MVP award goes directly to Austin Butler. Not only does he nail his Elvis impersonation, but his musical performances are also outstanding in their own right. I especially love his rendition of "Trouble," maybe more than the original. When you get me to like a cover of a classic song more than the original, you've accomplished something spectacular! 

    If I had to compare Elvis to another movie, it would be Blues Brothers 2000: both films are too crazy and incoherent for their own good, but the music is astonishing. If you are the least curious, give it the fifteen-minute test. Otherwise, you're probably better off just buying the soundtrack. I did. 

Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you very much for reading.