Watch Elvis Presley: The Searcher

Elvis Presley: The Searcher is a documentary film produced by HBO and directed by Thom Zimny. The biographical film explores the life, music, and legacy of the king of rock and roll, Elvis Presley. The film offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the iconic artist, his music, and his impact on popular culture.

The film is structured in a non-linear fashion and is divided into two parts. The first part explores Elvis's early life, his upbringing in poverty, his love for music, and his meteoric rise to fame. The second part of the film delves deeper into Elvis's later years, including his struggles with addiction, his journey of self-discovery, and his tragic death at the young age of 42.

Throughout the film, a wide range of people who knew Elvis personally, including family members, friends, and collaborators, share their personal experiences and insights about the man behind the legend. These include former girlfriend Ann-Margret, legendary guitarist Chet Atkins, and the late Steve Allen, who interviewed Elvis on his television show.

The documentary features rare and previously unreleased footage of Elvis performing, rehearsing, and recording some of his most iconic songs, as well as behind-the-scenes glimpses of his personal life. The film also includes archival interviews with Elvis himself, in which he talks about his music, his ambitions, and his struggles.

One of the strengths of the film is its detailed exploration of the musical influences that shaped Elvis's unique sound. The film reveals how Elvis was influenced by a diverse range of musical genres, including gospel, blues, country, and R&B. The film also highlights the role that Elvis played in breaking down racial barriers in popular music.

Elvis Presley: The Searcher is not just a celebration of Elvis's music; it is also a deeply personal and intimate portrait of a man who struggled with the pressures of fame and the weight of his own legacy. The film offers a nuanced and complex view of the man behind the myth, and invites audiences to consider Elvis's place in the cultural landscape of America and the world.

Overall, Elvis Presley: The Searcher is a must-see documentary for anyone who loves music and is interested in the life and legacy of one of the most iconic figures in popular culture. The film is a moving tribute to Elvis Presley's enduring influence on our culture and his legacy as a transformative artist.

Elvis Presley: The Searcher is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between April 14, 2018 and on HBO