The 2022 Baz Luhrmann biopic Elvis, starring Austin Butler as the King of Rock and Roll, clocks in at a substantial 159 minutes, or 2 hours and 39 minutes. This extended runtime allows for a deep dive into the life and times of Elvis Presley, though it also sparks debate regarding its pacing and narrative choices.
A King-Sized Runtime: Why the Elvis Movie Is So Long
Baz Luhrmann is renowned for his maximalist filmmaking style, characterized by vibrant visuals, fast-paced editing, and operatic storytelling. Elvis is no exception. The film attempts to cover a significant portion of Elvis Presley’s life, from his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his Las Vegas residency and untimely death. This expansive scope naturally necessitates a longer runtime.
The film isn’t just a highlight reel of Elvis’s hits; it delves into his relationships, particularly his complex and often controversial dynamic with his manager, Colonel Tom Parker (played by Tom Hanks). Exploring these relationships in depth requires screen time. Furthermore, Luhrmann’s signature visual style, packed with montages, elaborate costumes, and grand set pieces, contributes to the overall length. The movie seeks to recreate the energy and spectacle of an Elvis performance, which naturally requires extended sequences dedicated to musical numbers.
Decoding the Elvis Experience: Is the Length Justified?
Whether the 159-minute runtime is justified is, of course, subjective. Some viewers find the length allows for a comprehensive and immersive experience, capturing the essence of Elvis’s life and music. Others find it excessive, arguing that the pacing lags in certain sections and that some storylines could have been trimmed.
The film’s sprawling narrative touches upon several key themes: Elvis’s cultural impact, his struggles with addiction, his fraught relationship with Parker, and his attempts to remain relevant in a rapidly changing music industry. To fully explore these themes, Luhrmann likely felt the need for an extended canvas. Ultimately, the effectiveness of the runtime depends on the individual viewer’s tolerance for Luhrmann’s stylistic flourishes and their interest in the various facets of Elvis Presley’s story.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elvis Movie
Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2022 Elvis movie:
1. Is there a director’s cut of Elvis? If so, how long is it?
There is currently no official director’s cut of Elvis available. Baz Luhrmann has mentioned that he has a four-hour version of the film, but its release is uncertain. This longer cut reportedly includes more material on Elvis’s relationship with Priscilla, his musical influences, and his spiritual journey. The theatrical cut remains the only widely accessible version.
2. Does the extended runtime allow for a more accurate portrayal of Elvis Presley?
While the length allows for a deeper exploration of certain aspects of Elvis’s life, accuracy is always a complex issue in biopics. Luhrmann has taken liberties with certain events and timelines for dramatic effect. Whether the extended runtime results in a more accurate portrayal is debatable and depends on one’s definition of accuracy. It allows for more details but not necessarily a more factual representation.
3. How does the runtime of Elvis compare to other biopics?
The Elvis movie’s 159-minute runtime is relatively long compared to many other biopics. For instance, Bohemian Rhapsody (about Freddie Mercury) is approximately 134 minutes, and Walk the Line (about Johnny Cash) is around 136 minutes. However, some biopics, such as Malcolm X (202 minutes), are significantly longer. The length reflects the filmmakers’ ambition to cover a significant period of the subject’s life in detail.
4. Does the length impact the film’s pacing?
The extended runtime can affect the pacing, with some critics and viewers arguing that the film drags in certain sections, particularly in the latter half. Luhrmann’s energetic style, while visually stimulating, can also contribute to a feeling of exhaustion for some viewers. The pacing is a common point of contention among those who have seen the film.
5. Is the entire movie focused on Elvis Presley, or are there significant side plots?
While Elvis is the central figure, the film also dedicates considerable screen time to Colonel Tom Parker. The movie is narrated from Parker’s perspective, framing him as both a mentor and exploiter of Elvis. Other side plots involve Elvis’s relationship with his mother, Gladys, his marriage to Priscilla, and his interactions with other musicians. Parker’s role is almost a co-lead, significantly influencing the narrative.
6. What scenes were cut from the theatrical release that might appear in a potential director’s cut?
Although details about specific cut scenes are limited without the release of a director’s cut, Luhrmann has alluded to additional scenes exploring Elvis’s spiritual side, his influences from gospel music, and deeper character development for peripheral figures. These additions likely contribute significantly to the rumored four-hour runtime. Fan speculation abounds regarding the content of the unreleased material.
7. How does the music contribute to the overall length of the film?
The musical numbers in Elvis are lengthy and feature full performances of many of Elvis’s iconic songs. These sequences are crucial to the film’s portrayal of Elvis as a performer and contribute significantly to the overall runtime. Luhrmann aimed to recreate the experience of watching Elvis live, which necessitates extended musical sequences. The music is not just background; it’s a central narrative element.
8. Where can I watch the Elvis movie?
The Elvis movie is available to rent or purchase on various streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. It is also available on DVD and Blu-ray. Check your local listings for current availability. Availability may vary depending on your region.
9. Does the runtime affect the film’s accessibility for younger viewers?
The extended runtime, combined with the film’s exploration of mature themes such as addiction and exploitation, may make it less suitable for younger viewers. Parents should consider the film’s PG-13 rating and read reviews before deciding whether it is appropriate for their children. Parental guidance is advised.
10. Are there any intermissions in the theatrical release of Elvis?
No, there are no official intermissions during the theatrical release of the Elvis movie. Viewers should plan accordingly before settling in to watch the film. The film plays continuously from start to finish.
11. Considering the length, is it recommended to watch Elvis at home or in a cinema?
The decision to watch Elvis at home or in a cinema depends on personal preference. The cinema offers a more immersive experience with a larger screen and better sound quality, potentially enhancing the impact of the musical performances. However, watching at home allows for greater comfort and the ability to pause the film if needed. The cinema experience is arguably more immersive, but home viewing offers greater convenience.
12. Will there ever be an interactive version of Elvis to allow viewers to choose what sections to watch?
While there are no current plans for an interactive version of Elvis, the success of interactive storytelling and the prevalence of streaming services make it a plausible possibility in the future. However, this remains purely speculative. Currently, the film is presented as a linear narrative.