Elvis (2022)
Bombastic visuals and ADHD storytelling make for an indecisive biography.
Presentation:
Visual overload with anamorphic and saturated color grading, the film attempts to implement as many cinematography techniques in as short of a time frame as possible. It's schizophrenic in pace, making your eyes wander everywhere, which is I supposed suitable for a carnival ride but not for the entire film. When it does come to actual dialogue and storytelling, the shift is jarring from the visual vomit that is presented for half the film, making you care less about the character and more about the imagery. The narration style is nothing short of frustrating, an odd choice for a story that could have been told in nearly any other way more effectively.
Conclusion:
A dazzling experience which robs the film of its heart, which lessens the reward of a rushed 2nd half. Is this visual storytelling or a deep heartfelt documentary? The film is indecisive and does a disservice to both in this TikTok style film that should appeal to younger audiences with low attention spans. You probably got interested in this because Austin Butler is on your radar, but you can skip the beat on this one.
Recommendations
If only filmmaking could resolve all Iranian conflicts.