Netflix has just added one of the most acclaimed films of recent years to its streaming catalogue – the biographical drama Elvis, directed by Baz Luhrmann, which explores the life and career of the one and only Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll.
A Star-Studded Performance
The film stars Austin Butler in the titular role, and it’s been widely celebrated for its dazzling visuals and Austin’s captivating portrayal of the legendary performer.
Released in 2022, Elvis quickly became a fan and critic favourite, earning a near-perfect 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes – and it’s easy to see why!
What the Fans are Saying
Fans have praised the film’s visual splendour and Butler’s performance, with one Rotten Tomatoes user raving: “The visuals of the movie were absolutely stunning. I was mesmerised and amazed throughout its entire duration. Austin Butler completely nailed his part.” Another user added: “Austin Butler’s performance was beautiful, captivating, and insightful. Baz Luhrmann and his wife Catherine Martin are so talented in their visual creations. All of them should have swept the Oscars for this brilliant film!”
Critics are Raving Too!
Critics were equally impressed, with many calling it one of the best films of the year. Film critic Joonatan Itkonen described Elvis as “a powerhouse of music, superb performances, and immaculate filmmaking. One of the best films of the year – any year.” The Observer praised Austin’s portrayal, stating: “Of the actors who have previously tried to bottle Elvis’s lightning-like magic, none has come close to the physical, emotional, and electrical energy that throbs through Austin Butler’s titular performance here.”
A Career-Defining Role for Austin Butler
Austin’s dedication to the role earned him multiple accolades, including a Bafta and a Golden Globe for Best Actor. He also received an Oscar nomination, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. In an interview with Deadline, Austin described the immense pressure of playing such an iconic figure: “It was such a huge chunk of my life that I was doing nothing else, so there are certain parts of it which will be infused in my DNA.”
The Challenges of Playing Elvis
The actor faced unique challenges while preparing for the role, including adopting Presley’s famous Southern drawl and undergoing a physical transformation to portray the singer at different stages of his life. To embody an older Elvis, Austin gained weight using an unconventional method – he would eat two dozen doughnuts at a time! He also damaged his vocal cords from all the singing, with one song taking 40 takes to get just right.
Stream Elvis on Netflix Now!
Although Austin has enjoyed a successful career with roles in Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, Masters of the Air, and The Bikeriders, Elvis remains his most celebrated performance. Fans can now relive the actor’s electrifying portrayal of Elvis Presley on Netflix, where the film is already generating buzz. Whether you’re a long-time Elvis fan or new to his music, this is one cinematic experience not to be missed – so what are you waiting for? Head to Netflix and start streaming Elvis today!