Netflix has just been added Facebookone of the most popular films of recent years, to its streaming catalogue. Directed by Baz Luhrmann, the biographical drama explores the life and career of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll.
Starring Austin Butler in the titular role, the film was 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 favorite, receiving near-perfect reviews. The film received an audience rating of 94% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Enthusiastic reviews and accolades
Fans praised the film’s visual splendor and Butler’s performance. One Rotten Tomatoes user wrote: “The visuals of the film were absolutely stunning. I was amazed and awestruck throughout its entire duration. Austin Butler absolutely nailed his role.”
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 creativity. They should all have swept the Oscars for this amazing film!”
Critics were equally impressed, with many calling it one of the best films of the year. Film critic Jonatan Itkonen described Elvis as “a powerhouse of music, great performances and immaculate filmmaking. One of the best films of the year – ever.”
The Observer praised Austin’s portrayal, saying, “Among the actors who had previously attempted to suppress Elvis’ lightning-like charm, none came close to the physical, emotional, and electric energy that pulses through Austin Butler’s titular performance here.”
Award-winning performance
© Warner Bros. PicturesAustin’s dedication to the role earned him numerous awards, including a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. He also received an Academy Award nomination, cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s brightest stars.
In an interview with Deadline, Austin described the enormous pressure of playing such an iconic character: “He was such a big part of my life that I wasn’t doing anything else, so there are certain parts of him that will be instilled in my DNA.”
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.
Difficult transition
© Warner Bros. PicturesTo portray the older Elvis, Austin gained weight using an unconventional method. “I heard that Ryan Gosling, when he was going to do The Lovely Bones, he heated up Häagen-Dazs in the microwave and was drinking it. So, I started doing that,” he shared.
“I’ll go get twenty pieces of cake and eat them all. It’s fun for a week or so, and then you feel bad with yourself,” he admitted.
The stringent demands of the role also affected Austin’s vocal cords. “I’ve probably damaged my vocal cords from all that singing,” he told Graham Norton. “One song took 40 takes!”
A role defines a profession
© Warner Bros. PicturesAlthough Austin enjoyed a successful career with his roles in Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, Masters of the Air, and The Bikeriders, Elvis’ performance remains his most famous.
Fans can now relive the actor’s sexy 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 a cinematic experience not to be missed.
With its near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score and rave reviews, Elvis is sure to become a favorite on Netflix’s streaming platform.