Elvis (2022)- Accuracy review

Assignment:

“Find a film about an artist and research to check the information and accuracy”

Comparison made with:

Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis (2022)

Released in 2022, Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis movie is a biographical musical drama film. The film aims to follow the life of the singer/actor, Elvis Presley (played by Austin Butler), while telling this story through the perspective of his manager- Colonel Tom Parker (played by Tom Hanks). This essay will be discussing the accuracy of the biopic, in comparison with the real life of Elvis Presley.

Critics opinion

The film has received a predominately positive response, with critics praising the portrayal of Presely. In particular, Butlers portrayal of him. One critic wrote for The Hollywood Reporter, for example, that Butler “captures the tragic paradox of a phenomenal success who clings tenaciously to the America Dream even as it keeps crumbling in his hands”,.

While from that, it appears that the portrayal of Elvis in the movie was accurate, the film has also been criticised and deemed to be ‘inaccurate’. Many critics have interpreted the movie as an inversion of the director, Luhrmann, with him making the move ‘about him’- and through his direction it is presented through a ‘present-day lens’, thus distorting the portrayal’s accuracy.

Family's opinion

Aside from critics interpretations, the Presley family's themselves have responded to the movie. Family members have more than praised the portrayal, with Lisa Marie (Elvis’ daughter) calling it “nothing short of spectacular”, and stating Butlers performance “channeled and embodied” her fathers “heart and soul beautifully”. She strongly believes this is an accurate and respectful representation of Presley and his life. Furthermore, a main individual throughout the film, Priscilla Presley, additionally came out with their thoughts. Similarly, she believes it is a brilliantly told story, with a great portrayal of the characters- specifically noting Butler and Hanks performances, and defending moments in the film such as- the arguments between Colonel Parker and Elvis, and Elvis feeling conflicted between what he is told to do and what he wants to do. Her defending such important matters in the film, after having witnessed it all, massively heightens the credibility of this films accuracy.

Controversial inaccuracy’s

From further research into specific moments in the plot, I can however note that specific moments within Elvis’ life are left aside in this biopic. One standing out difference is the relationship between Priscilla and Elvis. The relationship in reality was problematic- specifically surrounding the age gap between the couple. While in the film we are shown the two meeting while Elvis was stationed in Germany (1959), we are not informed that at this time Elvis was 24 and Priscilla was only 14. Yes, we are given hints about this- with specific scenes showing power imbalances, for example scenes of Priscilla having to sit back and watch Elvis kiss multiple women at his shows, but age is not pinned down as to the reason for this. This may have been left out due to it being a ‘sensitive topic’ to involve in such a film honouring this life, but the portrayal is giving a romanticised representation of their relationship- that viewers may mistakenly admire and lust. This type of age gap is something that would not be accepted in today’s society, with the awareness behind the power imbalance in sexual grooming and exploitation increasing. This isn't something that should be ignored, and especially not ‘romanticised’ so with this part of their relationship being left out the plot- it compromises progression and can be damaging for young viewers perceptions.

In contrast, this concern is massively specific to the ability to consent. Research has noted that their relationship did not become sexual until they were married and older. Priscilla has personally stated Austin told her she was too young, and he wanted to wait, and he did until she was 21 and married. In some ways, this may decrease the concern surrounding the film putting this factor aside- as their relationship was not illegal nor abusive. I personally however believe, the historical context behind the laws at the time do not remove the immorality behind the act. Regardless of them, Priscilla was still only 14- and far away from adulthood- unlike Elvis, a fully matured adult.

Details/Events

There are also minor details within the Elvis film that are not accurate to real life. For instance, in the first section of the film- regarding Elvis’ childhood- he is seen wearing a large lightening bolt necklace around his neck. while this seems like a thought through, significant costume choice- this is not something he actually wore in real life. Furthermore, Colonel Parker and Presley are seen to meet in a funhouse- which there is no evidence of in real life. this production choice links back to critics reviews- stating the film is nothing but director Luhrmann's making it “about him”, as it may have only been included due to his pure imagination and not due to facts. I do however believe that this was not a mindless design choice, and instead an intelligent one. Despite the lightening bolt necklace not being a part of his childhood, including it foreshadows that it becomes an iconic part of him in his future. Thus, it is not an entirely inaccurate design choice.

One important detail in the film that is also not close to facts is Colonel Parkers opinion on Elvis’ ‘provocative’ dancing. In the film he is shown to be massively against it, encouraging a more ‘conservative’ approach to his dancing, singing and outfits. However, some sources have stated that this was not entirely true- with Colonel Parker logically liking this as it’s what sold them tickets and gained profit. While the power Colonel Parker had over Elvis is accurately being shown, this being one of the ways to show limits the accuracy of the film.

Regardless, Colonel Parker had taken advantage of Elvis throughout his career in reality, and this especially is one of the things the film focuses on and puts a spotlight on.

Conclusion

In conclusion, despite the Elvis (2022) movie by Baz Luhrmann missing out on important details in his life or adding details which weren't accurate, the character portrayal appears to be significantly accurate throughout. Real family members of the star believed the ‘characters’ were perfectly portrayed, adding to the credibility, and even defended certain events from the film. In addition, while some details are not accurate- these elements still make a point about certain events that did take place, and so the real story is not ignored. Certain ‘inaccurate’ design choices still symbolise real elements in his life- and thus not everything needs to be ‘true’ to be impactful and important. Therefore, I do believe this Elvis Biopic is a more factual, then not, portrayal of the artists life.