Introduction
“This Is Elvis” is a 1981 American documentary film that chronicles the life and career of Elvis Presley, the iconic figure often hailed as the “King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Directed by Andrew Solt and Malcolm Leo, the film offers a comprehensive portrayal of Presley’s journey from his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his unprecedented rise to fame and his lasting impact on the music industry.
The documentary uniquely blends authentic archival footage with reenactments, providing viewers with an intimate glimpse into Presley’s personal and professional life. Voice-over narration by pop singer Ral Donner, who emulates Presley’s speaking voice, adds depth to the storytelling. The film features performances by actors portraying Presley at various stages of his life, including Paul Boensch II as the 11-year-old Elvis, David Scott as the 18-year-old Elvis, Dana MacKay as the 35-year-old Elvis, and Johnny Harra as the 42-year-old Elvis.
“This Is Elvis” was showcased out of competition at the 1981 Cannes Film Festival, reflecting its cultural significance. The film grossed $2 million at the U.S. box office, ranking #92 for the year 1981.
Accompanying the film, RCA Records released a double LP soundtrack in March 1981, which included several of Presley’s 1950s television appearances and other previously unreleased performances. The soundtrack achieved Gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on August 6, 2002.
In 2007, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Presley’s passing, a two-disc DVD set of “This Is Elvis” was released. Disc one features the original theatrical version, while disc two includes an extended version with 45 additional minutes of footage, offering fans a more in-depth look at Presley’s life and legacy.
“This Is Elvis” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s enduring influence on music and popular culture, providing both longtime fans and new audiences with a detailed and engaging portrayal of his life.