Director:Baz Luhrmann
EPiC is part concert film, part back stage footage and part documentary. It provides a very quick round up of Elvis’s life so it can focus on, primarily, his residency in Las Vegas. Put together from footage Lurhmann’s gathered for his 2022 film, Elvis. It includes reels found in Warner’s archives, previously unseen concert films and performances as well as relaxed backstage footage and rehearsals. There’s some previously unheard audio of Elvis describing his own career as well as some clips from press interviews. All brought together with Lurhmann’s visual flair and style, as sparkly as Elvis’s outfits!
This is a film for anyone who wants to see a consummate performer, doing the thing they love. And will work whether you’re an Elvis aficionado or not. It’s no hard hitting documentary and is not looking at its subject with any level of criticism. Instead Lurhmann delivers a celebration of a performer doing the thing he clearly not only loves to do, but is incredibly gifted in doing it.
This is a fascinating and enjoyable look at Elvis in an environment he enjoys. As someone who’s not an Elvis “fan” what stands out hugely is just how good he was. A wonderfully flexible voice that seamlessly switches between genres. His stage presence and craft is a joy to watch, with audiences of all ages under his spell as he sings and moves, as they swoon and scream.
But we also get intriguing glimpses behind stage, as we get to see a man at ease in his surroundings, having fun, who loves music and oozes charm and charisma.
There are some moments of melancholy, mainly in conversation with journalists when asked about his thoughts on the draft, travelling, performing outside of the US and the possibility of waning fame. There are also nods to other parts of the Elvis story, with glimpses of Tom Parker and Priscilla, but they are brief.
This is a joyful and entertaining celebration of a musical icon and incredible performer. Providing a glimpse into Elvis doing what he loved.
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