Movie Review: Elvis (2022)

I saw the film, Elvis (2022) with a friend at the movie theater this past summer. Even though I would say I am an avid fan because I do own an Elvis: Greatest Hits CD, I did not have too many expectations walking into the movie. Overall, it was a fun and entertaining film and a beautiful homage. While watching this film, you will experience a variety of emotions.  In one moment you will be gawking over actor Austin Butler’s (who played Elvis Presley) gyrations and the next you will be bawling your eyes out. This biopic showcases the life of the legendary musician Elvis Presley including his dysfunctional childhood, his rise to fame, and becoming a rock and roll legend. It also dives into the complicated relationship he had with his controversial manager, Colonel Tom Parker, portrayed by the always charismatic Tom Hanks. What sets this movie apart from other biopics is that it is not told in first person narrative. Rather, Tom Parker narrates the plot. Viewers of the film may see Tom Parker as the film’s antagonist. The film details the many highs and lows throughout his career including successful record sales and failed relationships. 

I thought the acting from both Hanks and Butler was superb. Even though Butler did not always resemble Presley because of his facial features, he did his best to embody his character’s’ expressions, voice, and mannerisms. Both Butler and Hanks were unafraid to be vulnerable. Even though the film’s runtime was 2 hours and 39 minutes, I thought it flew by rather quickly. Even though the film kept me fairly intrigued, I thought the plot was a little drawn-out in some areas.  I was super impressed with the songs included in the film, especially after reading that Butler did his own singing, mixed with Elvis’s vocals. Elvis’s songs weren’t the only stand out musical moments: watching all of the soul music performances that influenced Elvis’s style really lifted my spirits. 

Overall, I would rate this movie 7/10 stars.

​- Amy Schuster