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@augustkellerwrites
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Elvis has showmanship. Its rushed writing lacks restraint, oddly providing constant drama without intimacy. There are vulnerable scenes with clear exploitation themes, but because it never slows down, viewers struggle to connect. Butler and Hanks elevate their material (while Butler nails the voice and moves), the emotions range, and the narrative is worthwhile. It's just missing relatability setups. For example, we don't actually see Parker and Elvis meet. Since that's the film's central relationship, their first impressions would've reinforced everything. These missing smaller moments come with the territory of broad biopics, but Elvis' vigorous tempo becomes tiresome.
Technically, Elvis is controlled chaos. Luhrmann's style reflects Elvis' extreme impact on entertainment. This whirlwind atmosphere muddles the humanity, but undoubtedly amplifies the musical performances. Meanwhile, the visuals use stimulating warps, focus, motion, lighting, and angles. The editing employs energetic split screens, superimpositions, dissolves, match cuts, and intercuts. The flashy production meets the eras, the effects are supportive, and the iconic music is manipulated for magnified intensity. Plus, the sound perfectly utilizes risers, echoes, overlaps, volume, and punctuations for surreal symbolism. Overall, Elvis' technical bonanza overrides its spotty relatability.
Writing: 6/10
Direction: 8/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 8/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 10/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 8.1/10
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