Music,Drama,History
United States of America,Australia
"Elvis" is a biographical drama film that explores the complex and often tumultuous relationship between the iconic rock and roll legend Elvis Presley and his enigmatic manager Colonel Tom Parker. The movie delves into the personal and professional challenges that Elvis faced during his meteoric rise to fame in the 1950s, and the way in which he relied on Parker to navigate the music industry and protect his interests.
The film begins with Elvis' humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, where he first discovered his love for music and performing. We see how Parker, a former carnival huckster turned manager, spotted Elvis' potential and took him under his wing. However, as Elvis becomes increasingly popular and successful, tensions begin to emerge between the two men, particularly around issues of control and creative freedom.
Throughout the movie, we see how Parker's influence over Elvis' career grew and, in some cases, stifled him. For instance, Parker's obsession with making money and exploiting Elvis' image led him to sign a lucrative but restrictive contract with RCA Records, limiting Elvis' ability to record and perform his own material. Additionally, Parker's fear of flying prevented Elvis from touring outside of the United States, which potentially limited his career and artistic growth.
The film also covers Elvis' personal life, including his relationships with his wife Priscilla and his close friend and confidante, the singer-songwriter Tom Petty. We see how Parker's manipulations and control over Elvis' life affected these relationships, ultimately contributing to Elvis' decline and tragic death at the age of 42.
Overall, "Elvis" is a powerful depiction of the complicated and often fraught relationship between an artist and his manager, exploring themes of artistic control, fame, and the pursuit of wealth and success.
