Notebook Reviews: ELVIS – THE MOVIE

John Carpenter – 1979

Elvis is an exceptionally well-made TV movie from John Carpenter. This is a serious change of pace for the horror director, but he shows a deft touch in delivering an impressive musical biopic.

Carpenter regular, Kurt Russell (in their first teaming) is fantastic as The King. It’s a real tour-de-force performance from the actor and at times you’d feel you’re watching the real Presley – although Ronnie McDowell performs the singing vocals. 

Released just two years after Elvis‘ death in 1977, the only major issue with the film is that the story ends in 1970. It’s not a fatal flaw, but it would have be interesting to see what Carpenter and Russell could have done with The King‘s later years. Great nonetheless.