The rise and fall of an icon.
Baz Luhrmann’s latest biopic about the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley, is one of the most highly-anticipated movies of the year – and its going to have everyone falling head over heels in love with Austin Butler.
The movie promises lots of glitz and glamor, while exploring the dark side of Elvis’ life too. Here’s what to expect.
What’s it about?
The film will follow roughly 20 years of Elvis’ life – so we can assume it will chronicle his rise and fall, from the mid-50s when he first blew up, to his untimely death in the late ’70s.
When Elvis shot to fame, his unique performance style captivated fans around the world but it also caused quite a bit of controversy – something that will be another point of focus in the film. It will also delve into the relationship between him and his manager who, judging by the trailer, seems to take credit for the artist’s career.
According to Luhrmann, we can also expect a look back at the star’s childhood and how he was influenced by the Black community. He recently told The Hollywood Reporter that the film is not an attempt to reignite the Elvis hysteria, but that he “just saw him as the best canvas on which to explore America in the modern age”.
Who are the cast?
While rumours were afloat that Harry Styles, Ansel Elgort, and Miles Teller auditioned to play the main man, the role ultimately went to Butler in the end. You might recognise the actor from his days as a child star on Disney Channel and Nickelodeon, starring in Wizards of Waverly Place and Hannah Montana, or more recently from the Oscar-winning film Once Upon A Time In Hollywood.
The 30-year-old recently revealed he underwent voice coaching for a year before shooting began because he wanted his voice to be as identical as possible to Elvis’.
Meanwhile, Tom Hanks stars as Elvis’ manager Tom Parker (though he may not be too recognisable due to facial prosthetics) and Olivia DeJonge plays the ever-alluring Priscilla Presley.
What’s the deal with the soundtrack?
The film looks set to have an amazing score, featuring original songs by the Doja Cat, Eminem, CeeLo Green, Jack White, Tame Impala, and Maneskin. It goes without saying that it will also include some of Presley’s biggest hits.
When will it be released?
The movie was originally announced back in 2019 and had several setbacks due to Covid, but it finally lands in cinemas on 24 June. Before that, it will make its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on 25 May.
