Watch This Is Elvis

This Is Elvis is a 1981 documentary-style film that tells the story of Elvis Presley's life and career, from his humble beginnings in Memphis, Tennessee to his rise to superstardom as the King of Rock and Roll. The movie features footage of Presley's performances, interviews with his friends and family, and dramatic re-enactments of pivotal moments in his life, including his first meeting with Colonel Tom Parker, his time in the army, and his marriage to Priscilla Beaulieu.

The film is presented in a unique format, with actor David Scott playing Elvis in the re-enactments, while Presley himself provides narration through interviews that were conducted shortly before his death. The use of dramatic re-enactments adds depth and texture to the film, allowing viewers to see not just the public persona of Elvis Presley, but also the more private moments of his life.

The film also includes interviews with many of Presley's family members, friends, and colleagues, including his father Vernon, his former Graceland cook Mary Jenkins, and his longtime collaborator and friend Red West. These interviews offer a glimpse into the personal life of Elvis Presley, including his struggles with drug addiction and his complicated relationships with women.

One of the most powerful aspects of This Is Elvis is the footage of Presley's performances, including some rare footage from his early years. Viewers get to see Presley's dynamic stage presence, his energy, and his raw talent as a performer. The film showcases some of his most famous songs, including "Heartbreak Hotel," "Hound Dog," and "Can't Help Falling in Love."

The movie also delves into the cultural impact of Elvis Presley, including his influence on fashion, music, and popular culture. It explores how Presley's unique style and sound helped to bridge the gap between black and white music, and how his rebellious image challenged the social norms of the 1950s.

Throughout the film, viewers get a sense of Elvis Presley as a complicated and multifaceted individual, with a unique blend of charisma, vulnerability, and talent. The movie does not shy away from his flaws and challenges, but instead presents a nuanced and complex portrait of this legendary figure.

Overall, This Is Elvis is a must-see film for fans of music history, rock and roll, or just good storytelling. It offers a compelling look at the life and legacy of one of the most influential figures in American popular culture, and allows viewers to see a side of Elvis Presley that they may have never seen before. Whether you're a longtime Presley devotee or just curious about this icon of American music, this film is definitely worth checking out.

This Is Elvis is a 2002 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6 and a MetaScore of 71.