Snow—September 23, 2022✓ Verified purchase
I am completely gobsmacked by this film. Yes, it is highly stylized, in the typical Baz Luhrmann style, but a little toned down compared to many of his films. Personally, I love all of his films, so the style is not an issue for me. I know some aren't overly fond of it, though. But like I said, compared to some of his films, it's a bit toned down. For me, it struck the perfect balance, and honestly, I think it was perfect. I mean, this is Elvis we're talking about, here. It had to be just a little over the top, just a little bit larger than life. I have always been an Elvis fan, but he died before I was born, and it was always a distant sort of, "Yeah, Elvis was really cool, and had such a great voice", and that was it. But this film brought him to life and made him REAL for me. It brought back memories of my grandparents listening to Elvis when I was a kid, and made me feel closer to them (they've passed). It conveyed that whole time period perfectly. Austin Butler's performance was truly phenomenal. He put his whole heart and soul into the role, and also managed to find Elvis's heart and soul too, and conveyed that so incredibly beautifully. I've never seen anything quite like it. The singing performances in this film are so well done, it really, truly makes me feel like I'm AT an Elvis concert, which is not something I ever thought I would experience. And also, Austin's own vocals in the film are really, really fantastic. The pacing of the film is wonderful, and despite its length, it flows so well, and every minute is something special and enjoyable. I am completely obsessed. I keep watching it over and over, and enjoy it just as much each time. I have the same feeling at the end each time. It's a feeling of closure and complete satisfaction. It is a true work of art. It strikes a good balance of conveying Elvis, as a person, honestly, with his flaws and weaknesses, but without dwelling so much on those things that it gets bogged down. I find that if I'm not watching it, then I'm watching actual Elvis movies and listening to his songs. I just really, truly love this movie. It may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it sure is mine. Just a note on the 4K UHD Blu-Ray: Honestly, I was not overly impressed with the 4K transfer on this. I've seen much better. After watching a bit of the 4K, I actually couldn't keep watching it, because it just looked terrible to me, and I put in the plain Blu-Ray disc. Now the just plain Blu-Ray DOES look spectacular. I really don't think the 4K is worth the extra cost, unfortunately. Read more
Kytka—August 22, 2023✓ Verified purchase
Prepare to be utterly mesmerized by Austin Butler's awe-inspiring performance in "Elvis." If ever there was a moment where an actor seamlessly merged with their character, this is it. Butler's embodiment of Elvis Presley is a tour de force that transcends acting—it's as if the spirit of Elvis himself was channeled through him, bringing the legendary figure back to life in the most astonishing way. In "Elvis," Austin Butler's portrayal is not just a performance; it's a transformation that defies belief. He goes beyond mere imitation, delving into the depths of Elvis's persona and essence. The result is an Oscar-worthy depiction that is both uncanny and profoundly moving. Watching Butler on screen, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the King of Rock 'n' Roll himself had been resurrected for this role. The dedication and commitment Butler poured into his portrayal are palpable. The filmmakers' extensive search for the right actor to capture the essence of a cultural icon like Elvis speaks volumes about the magnitude of the role. Austin Butler's ability to not only mimic but embody Elvis's distinct voice and mannerisms is a testament to his craft and the intense preparation he underwent. The attention to detail in Butler's performance is staggering. To internalize Elvis's physicality, he worked tirelessly with a movement coach throughout the film's production, ensuring every gesture and movement was infused with authenticity. His commitment to speaking and singing in Elvis's unique manner adds another layer of credibility to his portrayal. "Elvis" is not just a biopic; it's a resurrection of history, an homage to a figure whose legacy has spanned decades. Austin Butler's transformation is more than just a remarkable achievement—it's a testament to the magic of cinema and the incredible talents that breathe life into it. His portrayal is a mesmerizing tribute to the electrifying artistry of Elvis Presley, and his dedication to the role is nothing short of extraordinary. In "Elvis," Austin Butler achieves the seemingly impossible: he becomes Elvis, capturing his essence, spirit, and presence with unparalleled authenticity. This performance is a milestone in cinematic history, and it cements Austin Butler as a force to be reckoned with in the world of acting. "Elvis" is a must-watch not just for fans of the King, but for anyone who appreciates the power of transformative storytelling brought to life by an exceptional performer. Read more
Jeanette Durkin—January 28, 2026✓ Verified purchase
The dvd played perfectly with no issues! This is one of my favorite movies!! Read more
cnick—March 25, 2023✓ Verified purchase
Elvis is a really fun, enlightening, & touching movie! I didn't get to see it in the theater so decided to buy it. So glad l did! I've been an Elvis fan from the time l was old enough to appreciate him starting in the late '50s, early '60s. So much has been written & over analyzed about him that you begin to think you know it all. This movie's purpose is not to be a documentary, but to get across the essence of Elvis, the boy, the man, the icon! It's told through the eyes of Col. Tom Parker who had his own agenda in promoting Elvis, so it required a bit of poetic license to get that across. That turns out to be a great benefit in the final analyses. As for the acting, l can't say l thought Tom Hanks did a good job. I may be biased because l disliked Col. Parker so much. As to the portrayal of Elvis, l have to say that l have seen the other Elvis movies that have been made, & never enjoyed any of them. I know there are Elvis impersonators that people have raved about, but I just never could go that route. They make me cringe! All l can say is Austin Butler is Elvis in this movie. Truly! He sings the songs himself, he mastered the moves, he got to the heart of the man, and he succeeded in expressing his humanity. This is a movie to see, more than once. Ten stars!! ********** Read more