By: Anton Massopust III

“Tell me Mr. Presley, are you ready to fly?” – Colonel Tom Parker

Elvis

Austin Butler (Elvis Presley) and Tom Hanks (Colonel Tom Parker) star in the new rock biopic of Elvis Presley. This movie is about to two men and their destiny. Elvis Presley went on to be the King of Rock and Roll and a legend. Young Tennessee boy Elvis, who was influenced by gospel rhythm and blues and of course rock and roll, brought rock ‘n roll to the mainstream. He began his career by doing small concerts with country western acts and eventually becoming a superstar doing shows in Las Vegas, movies – a Superstar. And then there is his fall where he was manipulated by Colonel Tom Parker and addicted to prescription drugs. Carnie Colonel Tom Parker, “The Snowman,” managed Elvis’s career demanding he work himself to the ground and took 50% of his earnings. Colonel Tom Parker had a secret that nobody knew, creating his own identity and the fact he was not allowed to leave the country. His financial abuse of Elvis is evident throughout the movie.

This film is cleverly edited and presented as a carnival ride whirlwind, starting with Elvis’s early humble beginnings and his rise to stardom. This film had two wonderful performances: Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Colonel Tom Parker. Butler gave a phenomenal performance. He is truly on his way to stardom. He’s incredible at acting plus he can sing dance and move like Elvis Presley. Tom Hanks gave a wonderful performance as the conniving Colonel Tom Parker. You hardly know it is him under all that makeup. Hanks is probably to receive another Academy Award nomination for his role.

If you’re an Elvis fan and you know all the great stories about him, this is the movie for you. The movie is sure to introduce the King of Rock and Roll to a new generation whose legend will never die.