In the spring of 1972, a film crew tracked Elvis Presley as he prepared for his first tour in nearly ten years. In a twist of fate, one of the film’s most revealing moments happened off-camera. Jerry Schilling, a close friend of Elvis and part of the production team, recalls, “We wanted to get an interview with him. But he was tired, and it never happened.”
Despite that, they captured about 40 minutes of casual conversation where Elvis shared thoughts he had never voiced before. This audio raised eyebrows for his strict manager, Colonel Tom Parker, who kept most of it from the public during Elvis’s life.
Fast forward over 50 years, and Baz Luhrmann, who directed the 2021 biopic Elvis, has included portions of that audio in his new film, Epic: Elvis Presley in Concert. According to Luhrmann, these recordings provided a unique opportunity to let Elvis tell his own story. “He was unguarded and open-hearted during that chat,” Luhrmann explained.
This documentary isn’t your typical concert film. It combines a mix of imagery, voiceovers, and creative editing to form what Luhrmann describes as “a dreamscape poem of Elvis.” This artistic approach carries over from Luhrmann’s earlier works, like Moulin Rouge! and Strictly Ballroom, where he redefined the movie musical through vibrant visuals and fast-paced storytelling.
While making the first Elvis movie, Luhrmann stumbled upon rumors of forgotten footage from two iconic concert films: Elvis: That’s the Way It Is and Elvis on Tour. With research teams digging through Warner Bros’ vaults, they uncovered an astounding 59 hours of unseen film. Collaborating with experts like Peter Jackson, they restored this footage for a stunning viewing experience—so clear that some might suspect a touch of AI enhancement. However, Luhrmann insists there’s no AI involved: “The effect is Elvis’s influence on the audience.”
The performances captured in Epic may surprise viewers who see Elvis as just a relic of the past. This film shows his vibrant energy and vocal prowess during concerts in the early 70s. From his lively moves to his collaborations with musicians, it’s evident he fostered an electric atmosphere. Songs like “Burning Love” and gospel classics highlight his vocal range, showcasing how he engaged dynamically with his band.
Schilling remarked, “Elvis was the most underrated producer in music.” His input during rehearsals proves he wasn’t just a performer but an artist deeply involved in crafting the sound. “Everything happened in the moment,” Luhrmann noted, emphasizing that these performances were alive and spontaneous.
One notable moment is his playful interaction with fans—like introducing himself as Fats Domino at one show. This side of Elvis humanizes him; he wasn’t just a superstar but someone who wanted to connect with his audience.
However, as the film progresses, Elvis’s frustrations become clear. He often expressed disappointment with the film roles he received. “Hollywood’s image of me was wrong,” he lamented in the interview. Schilling noted Elvis’s desire for more compelling film projects—a path thwarted by Colonel Parker’s management.
As time wore on, particularly in the 70s, the pressures of touring and performing took a toll. Schilling recalls that boredom and frustration led Elvis to rely increasingly on prescription drugs. The psychological impact was significant. The film captures Elvis in a pivotal moment of his career—before the struggles and unhealthy lifestyle took over.
Luhrmann’s intention is to present Elvis not merely as a myth but as a complex man behind the music. “I hope audiences will see beyond the star to the real Elvis,” he said.
This new look at Elvis not only celebrates his incredible talent but also offers a glimpse into his humanity, challenges, and ambitions—something fans have longed to see. The world saw the King on stage, but Luhrmann invites us to understand the man beneath the legend. For further insights into Elvis’s life and career, you can check out this piece.
