paw post movie insider: elvis review

Austin Butler was definitely taking care of business in his portrayal of the King of Rock. Elvis hit theaters this summer but was brought back after being nominated for 8 academy awards. Over the weekend, I went with a friend to go see what I like to call a “masterpiece” for the seventh time. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Baz Luhrmann who is known for his other lavish films including Romeo and Juliet (1996) and Moulin Rouge! (2001), this film not only lives up to the expectations, but it’s just as much of a masterpiece as his other films. Following the life of famous singer Elvis Presley, the film shares big moments in his life and the relationship between him and his abusive manager. Several big moments that are showcased in his life include his first performance as he rose to fame, how he met Priscilla and the large impact his manager had on his life. Along with the phenomenal cinematography, the soundtrack, and musical editing was so beautiful and heavenly, it was music to my ears. The cinematography was so euphoric, it got my adrenaline pumping and I thought I was in the clouds throughout the entire movie. This was also one of those rare films that had perfect casting. Austin Butler portrayed the perfect role of Elvis with everything from his dance movies, his emotions, and his voice. Along with Tom Hanks as his manager Colonel Tom Parker, Butler made Elvis come back to life. There were times he was singing and I couldn’t tell if it was Elvis or his actual voice (it was his actual voice). This was the perfect casting and brought Butler to the top of his career. All 2 hours and 39 minutes of this movie felt like a fever dream and not a minute it wasted. Luhrmann perfectly put together Presley’s life in a timely manner. I will never be able to pick a favorite scene from this movie, there are just too many I enjoyed. To say I like this movie isn’t enough, I’m in love with this movie. I felt transported to another world; this story pulled me in from the start with the beautiful cinematography, phenomenal acting, and heavenly soundtrack. I can’t wait to watch it again this weekend for the 8th time. 

Rating: 5/5 stars