Baz Luhrmann's Quest to Resurrect Elvis Presley with Newly Discovered Footage
While crafting his Oscar-nominated 2022 biopic on Elvis Presley, acclaimed filmmaker Baz Luhrmann stumbled upon tantalizing rumors of lost footage from the 1970s. This material, originally intended for concert films like Elvis: That’s the Way It Is and Elvis on Tour, had never been utilized, sparking a cinematic adventure worthy of an Indiana Jones tale.
The Discovery in Kansas City's Salt Mines
In a remarkable turn of events, researchers unearthed 67 reels of film buried deep within Warner Bros. vaults located in underground salt mines in Kansas City. This discovery ignited Luhrmann's journey to restore and repurpose the footage, as he described in a recent video interview from Los Angeles. Archivists also uncovered a rare recording of Presley narrating his own life and career, providing a unique narrative thread for the project.
After completing Elvis, starring Austin Butler, Luhrmann felt compelled to embark on this new path. With the assistance of Peter Jackson's restoration team, renowned for their work on the Beatles documentary Get Back, the footage was meticulously polished to enhance both image and sound quality. The result is EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, now captivating audiences in theatres across Canada.
Elvis Presley's Vegas Residency and Global Ambitions
The film vividly chronicles Presley's efforts to revitalize his career following his army service and a series of B-movie roles. It focuses on his electrifying residencies on the Vegas Strip, where he aimed to reclaim his musical throne. Presley harbored dreams of taking his show worldwide, a vision that remained unfulfilled during his lifetime. However, EPiC offers fans a front-row seat to experience his iconic performances, featuring timeless hits such as That’s All Right, Hound Dog, and Burning Love.
Luhrmann shared insights into the restoration process, emphasizing the challenge of syncing sound with the visual reels. The breakthrough came with the discovery of Presley's personal audio recording, which allowed the team to let Elvis tell his own story, creating an intimate and authentic portrayal that avoids reliance on talking heads.
Revealing the Man Behind the Legend
Through the newly restored footage, Luhrmann gained a deeper appreciation for Presley's character. He observed Elvis's humor, kindness, and empathy, as well as his innovative musical techniques. Presley's ability to conduct his band with body movements and spontaneous decisions showcased his dynamic stage presence. Luhrmann noted the poignant contrast between Elvis the onstage icon and Elvis the offstage individual, who was often polite, humble, and insecure.
The film also addresses Presley's approach to social and political issues. While he famously stated he was just an entertainer when asked about politics, Luhrmann highlights how Presley used song choices like Walk a Mile in My Shoes and In the Ghetto to convey meaningful messages. Despite pressure from his manager, Colonel Tom Parker, Presley's musical selections often spoke volumes about his perspectives and heart.
EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert not only resurrects lost performances but also provides a nuanced look at the King of Rock 'n' Roll, blending spectacular God-like shows with glimpses of the vulnerable man behind the legend. This project stands as a testament to Luhrmann's dedication to preserving and celebrating Elvis Presley's enduring legacy for both longtime fans and new audiences.
