Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert’ Reveals a King Unbound

In the spring of 1972, a film crew documented Elvis Presley during his first tour in nearly a decade, capturing a pivotal moment in his career. A crucial element of that project, however, unfolded off-camera: a candid 40-minute audio recording of Presley discussing his life and career, largely unheard until now. Concerns from his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, kept much of this conversation private during Presley’s lifetime.

Untapped Audio and a New Film

More than five decades later, significant portions of that audio are featured in Baz Luhrmann’s new film, EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert. Luhrmann, who directed the 2022 biopic Elvis, describes the tape as a “lightbulb moment.” “Because Elvis was off camera when it was taped, I think he was really unguarded and really open hearted,” Luhrmann explained. “We thought, ‘What if we use this in the film so that Elvis tells his story himself?’”

A Distinctive Cinematic Style

The film utilizes this interview as a thematic spine, weaving it through a “dreamscape poem of Elvis” comprised of images, voiceovers, and editing techniques characteristic of Luhrmann’s style – a manic, surreal approach established in films like Strictly Ballroom, Moulin Rouge, and his previous Elvis biopic. This style employs fast editing, surreal imagery, and blurred timelines to reinvent the movie musical.

Discovering Lost Footage

The project began serendipitously. While working on the first Elvis movie, Luhrmann learned of unseen footage from two early 1970s concert films, Elvis: That’s the Way It Is and Elvis on Tour. Researchers scoured Warner Bros.’ vaults, located in underground salt mines in Kansas, and unearthed 59 hours of previously unreleased film negatives. This was supplemented with rare Super 8 footage from the Graceland Archives and material from private collectors. The footage was restored and enhanced to achieve IMAX-quality clarity, with assistance from Peter Jackson, who undertook similar restoration work for The Beatles’ Get Back series.

No Artificial Intelligence Used

The restored footage’s clarity has led some to speculate about the use of artificial intelligence. Luhrmann emphatically denies this, stating, “I’m making it clear that there’s not a frame of AI. The only visual effect in this film is the effect Elvis has on the audience.”

Reassessing Elvis’s Las Vegas Era

The film challenges perceptions of Presley’s later years. While his 1968 television special marked a creative resurgence, his move to Las Vegas was often viewed as a decline. However, the 1970 and 1972 footage reveals a dynamic performer with impressive vocal control. His signature moves, flamboyant costumes, and stage presence are presented in a new light.

A Collaborative Performance

The film highlights Presley’s rapport with his musicians, backup singers, and orchestra. Performances of songs like “Polk Salad Annie” and “Burning Love” are described as remarkably fast-paced, while gospel numbers showcase his vocal range. Presley actively directed the band, altering arrangements on the fly. Confidant Jerry Schilling noted, “He wasn’t just a great artist, he was a great listener.”

Elvis as Producer

Schilling further emphasized Presley’s often-overlooked talent as a producer, observing him refining arrangements and guiding his musicians. An extended version of “Suspicious Minds” included in the film demonstrates the joyful interplay between Presley and his backup singers, The Sweet Inspirations.

James Burton’s Key Role

Guitarist James Burton is singled out as a crucial member of Presley’s band, praised for his contributions to the music’s energy and melodic complexity. Schilling stated, “He set the band together. He’s the most humble guy and yet the most talented.”

A Human Side to the King

The footage similarly reveals Presley’s playful interactions with audiences, such as jokingly introducing himself as Fats Domino or sharing a drink with a fan. Luhrmann believes this was a deliberate effort to counter his image as an untouchable icon, presenting himself as relatable and human.

Frustrations and Unfulfilled Ambitions

The interview excerpts reveal Presley’s frustrations with his acting career and his desire to tour internationally. He expressed dissatisfaction with the roles he was offered, longing for opportunities similar to those enjoyed by James Dean and Marlon Brando. His manager, Colonel Tom Parker, a Dutch citizen who never obtained an American passport, prevented international tours due to concerns about revealing his immigration status. Presley also expressed interest in specific film projects, including a potential co-starring role with Barbara Streisand in a remake of A Star Is Born, which was ultimately blocked by Parker.

A Legacy Preserved

Despite the challenges, Luhrmann hopes the film captures Presley at his peak, before his later struggles. He aims to present not just the image of Elvis, but the man himself.