User reviews

ABC-TV is commended for their top notch attitude and efforts in this mini-series. So many projects have turned out to be just a mockery; but this presentation gives a interesting look at the life and legend of one of the world's most beloved entertainers. The series was canceled a few episodes before its scheduled conclusion; but this had nothing to do with the quality of the project in toto.

A lot of myth is not dispelled, but it gives even the non Elvis fan a look at the raw beginnings of a major superstar's career. As for true blue Elvis fans, only minor complaints. Namely some of the characters names and places and events are not totally accurate. This is probably due to legal reasons.

Michael St. Gerard is second only to Kurt Russell in physically presenting the essence of Elvis. The uncanny resemblance, mannerisms and total look is terrific. Kudos to St. Gerard for his achievement and successful role as Elvis.

Veteran actor Billy Green Bush plays a more animated Vernon Presley. Millie Perkins, who co-starred with Elvis in WILD IN THE COUNTRY(61),plays Gladys Presley. Jordan Williams is the most often arrogant record producer Sam Phillips. Jesse Dabson plays Scotty Moore, one of the major contributors to Elvis' early sound. Blake Gibbons plays the hot tempered and easily disgruntled stand-up base player Bill Black.

St. Gerard lip synchs to the voice of country singer Ronnie McDowell, who has been used several times as the singing voice of Elvis. Your time will not be wasted watching this look at the meager beginnings of the dynamic, unequaled career of the more than legendary Elvis Presley.

As a fan of the early years of Elvis Presley, I was very pleased by the high quality of this production. The acting was outstanding, particularly the actor and actress who played the characters of Elvis and his mother, Gladys.

I felt I understood Elvis much better after seeing this production. It placed Elvis within the context of a time and a place: Memphis in the mid '50's. And the production was very inspirational; it let you know that Elvis was not just a rock and roll sensation that popped up from nowhere, but a young man who worked very hard at perfecting his craft with the help of a great producer, Sam Phillips, some very talented musicians, Scotty Moore, Bill Black, and D.J. Fontana, and a mother who nurtured his creativity and his talent.

The other points of interest included the religious atmosphere that pervaded the South in the middle of the century, and the black rhythm and blues artists that were the foundation of rock music. I give this production nine stars.

I think that Michael StGerard's portrayal of Elvis was sensitive and intelligent. One of the finest performances ever seen on television. Also, Millie Perkins was touching and soulful as Elvis' mother, Gladys. My only complaint is that the ending is too vague. I'm waiting for a DVD to come out!!!!!

I thought this tv movie was well played out. Michael St. Gerard was a great selection of the character Elvis. Prescilla Presley herself said she picked Michael St. Gerard because he was good for the part. I didn't like the ending; I'm sure Mattie Walker was a real girlfriend of Elvis but the ending should have had them still together; then, noting at the end of the movie with subtitles what happened to all the character, like Bill, Scotty, and the record producers, etc. Mattie and "Elvis" should have stayed together at the end of this movie. Kelli Williams was also in my opinion great for the role of Mattie, she's a great actress and beautiful. Michael St. Gerard at most if not all parts had that look/scent of Elvis, good looking, young, etc. I'm not positive but I don't think Elvis ever cheated on his girlfriend Mattie, if Mattie was a real person. Other wise, I think this is a great, family movie. Well casted, well played out, and romantic. It doesn't seem like an Elvis 'flick' at all. I'd recommend this film to any one. E-mail me with opinions or questions.

I knew nothing about Elvis until 2007. I grew up in Chicago, where we listened, when able, to the black stations. I escaped, as did my brother at 16, worked, worked, married a Pre med student in 1961, supported him, ya da ya da. I was visiting shortly after my husbands death and heard music - what IS THAT? Elvis Presley (stupid). I have listened and learned as I got my hands on material, BUT THIS MOVIE IS THE BEST, THE BEST. I am not uneducated. I have been published. Just to let youknow I CAN tell the difference. That is One Great Story about a a bunch of Great People. And, it certainly should be rebroadcast. Thank you!