Review: Elvis (2022)

Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley film starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks

Beginning with a morphine drip as a clue to the film’s circular theme, and with dazzling effects and touches of cinematic splendor, Elvis by Baz Luhrmann dramatizes Elvis Presley’s life with reverence, empathy and romanticism. Tom Hanks as the man behind the curtain is fine. The star is Austin Butler in the title role.

Like 2019’s best picture, Rocketman, the movie telescopes and takes liberties with its rock star topic. The music, signature moments and raucous career, fandom and seediness of fame are all depicted. By the well-known tragic end you’re absorbed and you remember why audiences will always love Elvis.