tech
February 28, 2026
Baz Luhrmann: ‘There’s the image of Elvis and then there’s the man’
The singular director has made a second film about the King of Rock, and Roll and this time audiences will get to see a side of him they’ve never seen before
TL;DR
- A new Baz Luhrmann film, 'Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert,' uses a rare 1972 audio interview to narrate Elvis Presley's story.
- The film features newly restored concert footage from the early 1970s, showcasing Elvis's dynamic performances and musical direction.
- Elvis expressed frustrations with his Hollywood image and his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, preventing international tours and acting opportunities.
- Luhrmann emphasizes that the film uses no AI, relying solely on archival footage and Elvis's own voice.
- The documentary highlights Elvis's role as an underrated music producer and his connection with his band and backup singers.
- Colonel Tom Parker's control, stemming from his undocumented Dutch citizenship and lack of an American passport, prevented Elvis from touring globally.
- Colonel Tom Parker also sabotaged a potential co-starring role for Elvis with Barbra Streisand in 'A Star Is Born' by demanding an exorbitant fee.
- The film contrasts the vibrant performer of the early 70s with the later, troubled years of his career.
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