Long live the King

More than 40 years after his death left the entertainment world reeling, Elvis is back. And the wait has been worthwhile, as Sorted’s Andy Godfrey discovers.

Wow. I am 'all shook up' after watching the biopic blockbuster about the life and times of Elvis Presley, the undisputed king of rock and roll.

It really doesn't matter what your music preferences are, or what your age is. My advice is, put on your blue suede shoes and head for the nearest cinema as soon as this cracker of a movie comes to a town near you. For it is a belter and you will love it.

IN HIS ELEMENT: Butler delivers a convincing performance as Elvis Presley.

In much the same way as the recent Rocketman used Elton John’s music to tell his story, Australian director, Baz Luhrmann, does exactly the same thing here. But it's not just Elvis's story he's telling, this is as much a film about other influential figures in the ‘King’s’ life, as it is about the man with thrusting hips and a voice that melted millions of female hearts.

Austin Butler steals the show playing Presley with authority and sensitivity. He really delivers a top-drawer performance.

DEVIOUS AND MEDDLING: Tom Hanks stands out as the divisive Major Tom.

The placement of songs at certain points in the story serves to highlight the problems and difficulties Elvis found himself in. For example, Caught In A Trap is heard as Major Tom, Presley’s double-dealing agent and uncle, signs a deal behind his back that prevents him from undertaking his world tour.

The evergreen Tom Hanks is wonderful as the deceitful Major. One minute he's a kind old relative who only has the star’s best interest at heart, the next he's a scheming, money-grabbing old codger who is holding Elvis back. The relationship between the two is dramatically and powerfully portrayed. And, if you want to find out how Hanks's character ends his days, stay to the end credits. They are illuminating!

ONE TO SAVOUR: accolades are pouring in for Baz Luhrmann's directorial masterpiece.

The comparisons with Rocketman, Judy and Bohemian Rhapsody will undoubtedly be made. In each case, we have people with incredible talent who allowed themselves, and their lives, to be shaped by others whose motives weren't exactly pure.

Of one thing you can be certain: Luhrmann’s terrific direction and eye for detail will ensure this is a massive hit at the box office. And rightly so. I certainly didn't get the blues while watching a special press preview, and although we left Elvis in Heartbreak Hotel there was a big part of me that simply wanted to shout out Glory, Glory, Hallelujah!

Andy Godfrey is a founder member of the Mark Kermode Appreciation Society.