Jill Bain

Sound is poor as it is too loud and the sound reverberates. Colonel Parker’s version of Elvis’ early career is hard to hear and yet is pivotal to the storyline. The film jumps all over the place at first but quarter way through it settles down and is easier to follow. Elvis’ performances are electriifying and Austin Butler certainly captures Elvis’ magic. He skilfully portrays Elvis’ humility yet contrasts with riveting performances that capture the talent and magnetism of Elvis. The cinematography used to depict Las Vegas is brilliant and really sets the scene. Tom Hanks portrayal of Colonel Parker is not convincing which is a shame. The amplification of rhythm and brass in the Vegas performances is a master stroke and helps to build the excitement and trigger the hysteria which Elvis is famous for. If Austin Butler doesn’t get an Oscar for his performance it will be a travesty of justice. He “is” Elvis but manages to make the role all his own nevertheless.