Revealing Unearthed Elvis Concert Footage: Discover How It Brings the King of Rock & Roll Back to Life!

Baz Luhrmann vividly recalls the day Elvis Presley passed away, August 16, 1977. He was just a kid on a bus when a friend broke the news. Luhrmann’s young heart couldn’t accept it; he believed he was destined to meet the King of Rock & Roll.

Though their friendship never happened, Elvis significantly influenced Luhrmann’s life and career. His latest project, EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, showcases thrilling performances from Elvis’s Las Vegas shows in 1970 and his U.S. tour in 1972.

Why did it take so long for this footage to surface? The original film reels were kept in salt mines in Kansas to safeguard them from moisture damage. Luhrmann describes the search for these “lost reels” as nearly adventurous, akin to Raiders of the Lost Ark. They managed to find 65 reels, though some were damaged. With determination, Luhrmann and his team convinced Warner Bros. to scan the films for future use.

But EPiC isn’t just a concert. It tells Elvis’s story through his own voice, featuring clips from a 1972 interview. Instead of typical talking-head formats, Luhrmann wanted to create a dream-like experience, letting Elvis express himself. This new perspective brings a deeper understanding of Elvis, showing his humor and humanity.

Despite the challenges in securing funding and tracking down separate audio recordings over two years, Luhrmann was undeterred. He finally declared it was time to produce the film, emphasizing the need to present it in the highest quality.

The result? A mesmerizing film that feels almost like Elvis is still alive. From over 20 of his biggest hits like “Suspicious Minds” to “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” the movie captivates audiences as it showcases his energetic performances.

Angie Marchese, VP of Archives & Exhibits for Graceland, noted how this film feels unique, revealing Elvis as an authentic person rather than just an icon. It allows viewers to connect with him on a personal level—seeing the shy boy who gained confidence through singing.

Luhrmann believes the film captures Elvis’s extraordinary presence. Elvis wasn’t just a great singer; he had an undeniable essence that made him feel real and relatable. Nearly five decades after his passing, Elvis’s popularity continues to grow, especially among younger fans discovering his legacy through social media and films.

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert is now in theaters nationwide and IMAX, offering a fresh and exciting look at the man who changed music forever.

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