Title: Elvis
Year: 2022
Director: Baz Lurhmann
Country: US
Language: English
I have a love/hate relationship with Director Baz Luhrmann. His hyperactive editing, combined with frenetic camera work & spectacular imagery can be used creatively (Romeo + Juliet) but often distract from the story he is trying to tell by relying far too much on style over substance. Moulin Rouge (2001) is beloved for being such an outlandish musical, but I found myself quite overwhelmed by the nonstop fast pace.
Elvis follows the story of infamous rock 'n' roll star Elvis Presley (Austin Butler) seen through the eyes of his controversial manager Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks).
Too many biopics of Elvis are long tedious drolls; retelling the same story we have heard countless times. Luhrmann's take is unique because his off-the-wall film-making style zaps a much needed burst of energy into our iconic historical character. His visuals paint the man as larger than life; the camerawork explores how truly legendary Elvis was.
Lurhmann's script underlines Elvis' controversial role American culture. Finally, we are shown his black inspiration & Elvis' role in racial desegregation. Portrayed as an agent of change, it's nice to see Elvis' contribution to humanity through a socio-political lens. Luhrmann's film is a demonstration of how great art can push beyond the acceptable limits of culture.
The film isn't perfect by any means; its exploration of why Elvis stayed with his manager is surface level at best. Lurhmann also isn't too keen on exploring Elvis' own seedy side; such as his inteerest in teenage girls. Still; I found the film very entertaining and informative. There is a lot to like about this picture.
No comments:
Post a Comment