EPiC Elvis Presley in Concert – REVIEW

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Elvis Presley in Concert is EPiC…

1977 was a year of stark contrasts – we got Star Wars, a cultural phenomenon, but also lost Elvis Presley, far too young at 42. It’s a little sad, honestly, to think that for a younger generation, Elvis might just be a name they associate with impersonators – guys squeezing into sparkly jumpsuits for nostalgia’s sake. But seeing Baz Luhrmann’s new concert film really drives home just how incredible a performer he was – arguably the greatest who ever graced the stage.

He quickly rose to fame in the music industry, but a series of disappointing films left him frustrated and eager to return to performing – his true passion. A memorable 1968 television special highlighted his incredible stage presence, and from 1969 to 1977, he successfully returned to live performances.

How is Elvis Presley in Concert covered?

Baz Luhrmann’s new film blends documentary footage with concert performances, featuring a wealth of previously unseen material – much of it from his Las Vegas shows. The concerts were famously attended by enthusiastic female fans who often overwhelmed him with affection, showering him with gifts, attempting to kiss him, and generally creating a lively atmosphere. It’s clear the shows were packed and incredibly energetic!

He was a natural on stage, clearly having a blast joking with his band and backup singers. The film showcases several electrifying performances, expertly edited to capture the energy as Elvis, along with his musicians and the audience, reached a fever pitch – all in Baz Luhrmann’s signature dynamic style. The movie also reminds us that, despite being a rival to The Beatles, Elvis enjoyed performing some of their songs as well.

Is it the whole picture?

Some will criticize the film for not fully examining how Elvis’s success impacted Black music and culture. Others will point out the unhealthy aspects of his relationship with Priscilla and the problematic influence of his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, whose background was questionable. These are issues the film glosses over, much like a previous biopic, and deserve their own dedicated exploration.

Despite generally avoiding political discussion and claiming to be ‘just an entertainer,’ the singer occasionally reveals personal thoughts. He once admitted he’d always dreamed of performing in Europe and Japan, having only briefly stopped in the UK during his military service. However, his manager, Parker, consistently limited his performances to the United States, and there’s no suggestion that Parker’s own military background played a role in this decision.

EPiC complements the film ‘Elvis’ starring Austin Butler, and it’s a respectful and fitting homage to a singer who remains one of the most iconic and influential performers of all time.

Here’s the EPiC Elvis Presley in Concert trailer….

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2026-02-20 03:23