In a captivating exploration of the King of Rock and Roll, Baz Luhrmann’s latest film, *Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert*, unveils an unprecedented glimpse into Elvis Presley’s life and artistry. Drawing from long-hidden audio recordings, Luhrmann presents a nuanced portrait of a legendary figure often overshadowed by his colossal image. The film, which follows the immense success of Luhrmann’s 2022 biopic *Elvis*, promises to resonate with audiences by revealing the man behind the myth.
A Journey Back in Time
The project traces its roots back to the spring of 1972 when a film crew shadowed Elvis during a pivotal tour—the first in nearly a decade. Although they failed to capture a formal interview, Jerry Schilling, a close associate of Elvis, managed to record around 40 minutes of candid conversation. “We really wanted to get an interview with Elvis on film,” Schilling recalls, “but he was tired during the scheduled time.” The informal recording remained largely suppressed during Elvis’s lifetime due to the concerns of his controversial manager, Colonel Tom Parker.
Fast forward to today, and those previously unheard reflections are woven into the fabric of Luhrmann’s innovative documentary. “That tape was our lightbulb moment,” Luhrmann stated during a recent interview. “Elvis was off camera, unguarded and truly open-hearted. We thought, ‘What if we let Elvis tell his own story?’”
A Fusion of Footage and Sound
*Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert* defies the conventions of a standard concert film, transforming into what Luhrmann describes as “a dreamscape poem of Elvis.” The director’s distinctive flair—renowned from films like *Moulin Rouge!* and *Strictly Ballroom*—is evident throughout the film, which is marked by frenetic editing, vivid imagery, and an immersive auditory experience.
The creative process was extensive. While researching for his previous Elvis film, Luhrmann unearthed the existence of 59 hours of unreleased footage from two significant concert films of the early ’70s. “We were lucky to have access to Warner Bros’ vaults, which are hidden in salt mines in Kansas,” he explained. Collaborating with Peter Jackson, who had previously revived Beatles footage for his series *Get Back*, Luhrmann meticulously restored and synchronised this archival material for a visual feast worthy of IMAX.
The King’s True Essence
What sets this film apart is its ability to convey the raw energy and artistry of Elvis’s performances. The footage captures a dynamic performer who was not merely a superstar but a musical innovator. From his karate-inspired dance moves to his soulful renditions of gospel classics, Elvis’s charisma and talent shine through.
Luhrmann draws attention to the synergy between Elvis and his band, showcasing how he orchestrated the musicians and backup singers during performances. “It’s all happening in the moment,” he noted, emphasising the spontaneity of Elvis’s creative process. Schilling further elaborated, “Elvis was the most underrated producer in music,” highlighting his knack for reshaping arrangements and engaging with his ensemble.
The documentary also reveals personal moments that humanise the icon. Elvis is seen joking with the audience, referring to himself as Fats Domino, or cheekily sipping a fan’s cocktail. “Being goofy and funny was his way of disarming the audience,” Luhrmann explained, allowing fans to connect with the man beneath the legendary exterior.
The Shadow of the Colonel
Amidst the triumph and vibrancy of his performances, the film doesn’t shy away from the darker realities that haunted Elvis. The candid interview excerpts echo his frustrations with Hollywood’s portrayal of him. “Hollywood’s image of me was wrong and I knew it,” he expressed, shedding light on the disconnect between his aspirations and the roles he was offered.
Schilling contends that these frustrations contributed to Elvis’s eventual struggles with substance abuse. As his career shifted to the repetitive routines of Las Vegas, the creative vitality that once defined him began to wane. “You can’t have a genius do the same thing over and over again,” he lamented. The documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by artists, especially those ensnared by controlling management.
Why it Matters
*Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert* not only celebrates the musical legacy of Elvis Presley but also encourages viewers to reconsider their perceptions of fame and artistry. By humanising a figure often overshadowed by his own spectacle, Luhrmann invites audiences to witness the vulnerabilities and aspirations of a man who, despite his monumental success, grappled with profound challenges. This new film offers a chance to appreciate Elvis not just as an icon but as a multifaceted individual, reminding us all that behind every legend lies a deeply relatable human experience.
