In covering the entire scope of Elvis Presley’s career, ELVIS defies certain biopic conventions while embracing others, but it’s as distinctively a film by Baz Lurhmann as MOULIN ROUGE. Like that 2001 musical, ELVIS expands the frame of history in an attempt to recreate the earth-shattering effects of a moment in culture, while also poking at some of the uncomfortable questions raised by Presley’s popularity. It offers much to discuss, which we do before bringing MOULIN ROUGE into the conversation to compare the two films’ shared interest in the tension between art and commerce, to what effect anachronisms are used in each, and how each attempts to toe the line between appropriation and homage. Plus, some recommendations from Keith for supplementary Elvis viewing and reading. 

Please share your comments, thoughts, and questions about MOULIN ROUGE, ELVIS, or anything else in the world of film, by sending an email to [email protected], leaving a short voicemail at 773-234-9730, or commenting on our Patreon (patreon.com/NextPictureShow), where you can also find bonus episodes and more. 

Show Notes

Works cited: 

• “Can Elvis Rise Again” by David Browne (rollingstone.com)

• “Nobody Cares About Elvis Anymore” by Will Leitch (williamflietch.medium.com)

Outro music: Elvis Presley, “Unchained Melody”

Next Pairing: Werner Herzog’s GRIZZLY MAN and Sara Dosa’s FIRE OF LOVE

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