Ningún actor ha sido menos apreciado que Elvis Presley; Ningún grupo de películas ha sido más menospreciado que las comedias musicales de Elvis. Innumerables biografías de Presley y resúmenes de carrera y en la mayoría de las historias y análisis del rock 'n' roll, las películas de Elvis han sido descartadas como sin sentido, poco realistas, fórmulas y trilladas.
Galería de imágenes de Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley estaba ansioso por asumir papeles más serios como el que interpretó en Salvaje en el campo . Sin embargo, sus asesores siguieron llevándolo de regreso a las comedias musicales. Ver más fotos de Elvis.
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Sin embargo, ninguna película de Presley perdió dinero y gracias al beneficio de la televisión por cable y el video, el público aún disfruta de sus 31 largometrajes y dos películas de conciertos, así como de los numerosos documentales, programas de televisión y miniseries sobre su vida.
Esta contradicción apunta a la estrechez de la visión estándar sobre la carrera de Elvis en Hollywood y, al mismo tiempo, exige una reevaluación de sus películas colocándolas fuera de contexto. En lugar de lamentar el talento desperdiciado de Elvis y reflexionar sobre las oportunidades perdidas de su carrera cinematográfica, es más fructífero aceptar lo que Elvis ofreció.
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- Ámame Tiernamente
- Te amo
- Roca de la cárcel
- Rey criollo
- G.I. Azules
- Estrella llameante
- Salvaje en el campo
- Hawái azul
- Sigue ese sueño
- Niño Galahad
- ¡Chicas! ¡Muchachas! ¡Chicas!
- Sucedió en la Feria Mundial
- Diversión en Acapulco
- Primos besándose
- Viva Las Vegas
- Peón
- Niña feliz
- Hazme cosquillas
- Harum Scarum
- Frankie y Johnny
- Paraíso, estilo hawaiano
- Spinout
- Fácil viene, fácil se va
- Problema doble
- Clambake
- Aléjate, Joe
- Autopista
- Vive un poco, ama un poco
- ¡Charro!
- El problema con las chicas
- Cambio de hábito
- Conciertos de Elvis
Ámame Tiernamente
Ámame con ternura es un drama occidental ambientado inmediatamente después de la Guerra Civil. En la primera película de Elvis Presley, aparece en el papel secundario de Clint Reno. Esta fue la única vez en su carrera como actor que Elvis recibió una segunda facturación. Clint, el menor de los cuatro hermanos Reno, se quedó para administrar la granja familiar durante la guerra mientras sus hermanos mayores luchaban por la Confederación.
La estrella Richard Egan interpreta a Vance Reno, el hermano mayor que la familia cree que murió en la batalla. Al regresar a casa, Vance se sorprende al descubrir que Clint se ha casado con la ex novia de Vance, Cathy, interpretada por Debra Paget. El triángulo amoroso, complicado por las acciones codiciosas de algunos ex confederados sin escrúpulos, finalmente enfrenta a hermano contra hermano, lo que resulta en la muerte de Clint. El final pesimista se ve atenuado por la reconciliación de los hermanos cuando Clint muere en los brazos de Cathy.
Detrás de cámaras de Love Me Tender
La primera experiencia de Elvis como actor de Hollywood fue seguida de cerca por la prensa de espectáculos desde el día en que le asignaron un papel en Love Me Tender. hasta el día en que se estrenó la película. El escrutinio minucioso afectó el resultado de la película de varias maneras. Originalmente llamado The Reno Brothers, este drama occidental fue retitulado después de que varios artículos anunciaran que las ventas anticipadas de "Love Me Tender", una de las canciones grabadas para la película, excedieron el millón de copias. Era la primera vez que las ventas anticipadas de un solo lanzamiento superaban la marca del millón, y los productores capitalizaron la publicidad cambiando el título de la película.
Los avances de ventas sin precedentes de la canción "Love Me Tender"
inspiró a los productores para que también lo convirtieran en el título de la película.
La enorme cantidad de cobertura de prensa también afectó la conclusión de la película. Durante la producción, los fanzines filtraron que se suponía que el personaje de Elvis moriría cerca del final de la película. Tal como se filmó originalmente, la escena final presenta a la Madre Reno tocando solemnemente la campana de la cena mientras sus tres hijos restantes trabajan en el campo. El dolor y la pérdida se registran en los rostros de la Madre Reno y Cathy, quienes lloran la muerte de Clint. La legión de fans de Elvis se inquietó con la noticia de que su ídolo iba a ser asesinado en su primera película.
En un intento de contrarrestar una "reacción pública adversa", Twentieth Century-Fox filmó un final alternativo en el que se salva a Clint. Por razones que solo conocen los productores, este segundo final fue rechazado. En su lugar, se utilizó un final de compromiso. Clint es asesinado como se pide en el guión original, pero la toma final superpone un primer plano fantasmal de Elvis mientras Clint canta "Love Me Tender" mientras su familia se aleja lentamente de su tumba. Luego, los fans se quedaron con una imagen final de Elvis haciendo aquello por lo que era famoso:cantar.
Antes del estreno de la película en el Teatro Paramount de Nueva York, se erigió una imagen de Elvis de 40 pies como Clint Reno sobre la marquesina del teatro. Parte de la ceremonia que rodeó la presentación del enorme recorte incluyó colocar el brazalete con dijes más grande del mundo, que medía nueve pies, alrededor de la muñeca de la figura. Los amuletos representaban varios eventos en la carrera de Elvis, y el brazalete era una réplica gigante de uno que se comercializaba en todo el país. Algunos fanáticos que asistieron a la inauguración portaban pancartas que se quejaban de la muerte de Elvis en la pantalla, pero los biógrafos de Presley han especulado que el coronel Tom Parker, el notorio manager del cantante, las repartió para obtener aún más publicidad.
Si la promoción que rodea a Love Me Tender generó entusiasmo entre los fanáticos de Elvis, generó odio entre los críticos. Críticos de todo el país estaban al acecho de la película, y muchos fueron brutales en su evaluación de la actuación de Elvis. En una reseña particularmente mordaz de Time revista, un crítico comparó la actuación y la presencia de Elvis en la pantalla con la de una salchicha, un "pez dorado de Walt Disney", un cadáver y un grillo, todo en la misma breve reseña.
Muchos no limitaron sus críticas a la actuación de Elvis en la pantalla. Los críticos aprovecharon la oportunidad para reiterar las mismas quejas que el establishment siempre le había lanzado a Elvis, incluido su estilo de cantar, su cabello, su origen sureño y sus seguidores fanáticos.
Si Elvis lloró por las críticas mezquinas, entonces lloró todo el camino hasta el banco. La película recuperó sus costos de producción dentro de los tres días posteriores al estreno, lo que garantiza que el futuro de Elvis en Hollywood sería lucrativo.
Elenco de Ámame Tiernamente
Personaje
Actriz
Vance Reno Richard Egan Cathy Reno
Debra Paget
Clint Reno
Elvis Presley
Sr. Siringo
Robert Middleton
Brett Reno
William Campbell
Mike Gavin
Neville Brand
Martha Reno
Mildred Dunnock
Mayor Kincaid
Bruce Bennett
Ray Reno
James Drury
Ed Galt
Russ Conway
Sr. Kelso
Ken Clark
Sr. Davis
Barry Coe
Pardee Fleming
L.Q. Jones
Jethro
Paul Burns
Conductor de tren
Jerry Sheldon
Canciones que aparecen en Love Me Tender
- Nos vamos a mudar
- Ámame Tiernamente
- Déjame
- Pobre muchacho
Créditos de Love Me Tender
- Twentieth Century-Fox
- Producido por David Weisbart
- Dirigida por Robert Webb
- Guión de Robert Buckner
- Basado en una historia de Maurice Geraghty
- Fotografiado en CinemaScope por Leo Tover
- Música de Lionel Newman
- Supervisión vocal por Ken Darby
- Canciones escritas por Vera Matson con Elvis Presley
- Publicado el 15 de noviembre de 1956
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Te amo
Elvis Presley se sintió más cómodo en el papel de DekeRivers en LovingYou que como Clint Reno, ya que el papel se basó en sus experiencias profesionales de la vida real. El drama musical comienza cuando Deke, un camionero con un talento natural para realmente cantar una canción, se une a la agente de prensa Glenda Markle, interpretada por Lizabeth Scott, con la esperanza de convertirse en la próxima sensación del canto.Deke comienza su nueva carrera como cantante como telonero de una banda de música country y western encabezada por el exmarido de Glenda. Pronto se vuelve evidente que la facción femenina de la audiencia simplemente no puede tener suficiente de Deke, ya sea en el escenario o fuera de él. Glenda capitaliza el atractivo sensual de Deke proporcionándole trajes personalizados y organizando trucos publicitarios.
Deke está dividido entre la atracción que siente por Glenda y el afecto genuino que siente por la cantante principal de la banda, Susan, interpretada por Dolores Hart en su debut cinematográfico. Cuando Deke descubre que Glenda lo ha estado manipulando personal y profesionalmente, se confunde y huye. Un Deke más sabio y maduro regresa justo a tiempo para actuar en un importante concierto televisado, que sirve como introducción al gran momento.
Elvis Presley, como Deke Rivers, sorprende al público mientras Lizabeth Scott, como
Glenda Markle, observa la reacción de la multitud.
La actuación de Elvis definitivamente había mejorado cuando completó el papel de Deke Rivers. En parte, tenía más experiencia en este tiempo muerto, pero también el papel había sido hecho a medida para el joven cantante. La película mostró los mejores talentos musicales de Elvis, y la trama se basó libremente en su propia vida, una práctica que el productor Hal Wallis continuaría en el futuro.
En ese momento, esta práctica resultó invaluable para la carrera de Elvis. Dado que Elvis fue somalineado en la prensa como una figura de polémica y rebeldía, los responsables de su carrera se dieron a la tarea de remodelar su imagen. Al contar partes de la historia de la vida de Elvis a través de la forma familiar de la película de éxito de Hollywood, las audiencias mayores vieron que el cantante no era tan diferente de los artistas del pasado.
Para asegurarse de que la película capturara la esencia de la vida de Elvis como actor, Wallis envió al director y coguionista Hal Kanter a observar la aparición en vivo de Elvis en el programa de radio "Louisiana Hayride" el 16 de diciembre de 1956. Kanter siguió a Elvis durante unos días. en Memphis y luego en Shreveport, Luisiana, donde se basó el programa "Hayride". Kanter pudo capturar el caos, la euforia y la confusión que rodea a un cantante popular emergente.
Una tarjeta de lobby original de Loving You.
Para equiparar aún más a Elvis con Deke, Kanter y Wallis permitieron que algunos familiares y amigos de Elvis aparecieran en la película en cameos y papeles secundarios. Sus padres, Vernon y Gladys, aparecen como miembros de la audiencia en el número final de producción. Los miembros de la banda de la vida real, Scotty Moore, Bill Black y DJ Fontana, tienen fragmentos como los miembros de la banda de Deke.
La similitud más obvia entre el Elvis de la vida real y el Deke ficticio fue la controversia que ambos generaron debido a su estilo de interpretación. La película explica que la controversia que rodea a Deke se basa en un malentendido relacionado con trucos publicitarios mal calculados. Esto fue fundamental para el intento del equipo de producción de hacer que Elvis fuera más aceptable para el público general.
Mostrar a Deke como incomprendido implica que Elvis también fue incomprendido. Estructurar el éxito de Deke con la misma fórmula que otras películas sobre artistas implica que el éxito de Elvis en la vida real es solo una variación del mismo tema. Así como Glenda le dice a los líderes de la comunidad en Loving You que la música de Deke es tan divertida e inocente como lo era Charleston en la década de 1920, así que los productores de Loving You le decían a los Estados Unidos de la década de 1950 que se relajaran:la historia de Deke Rivers/Elvis Presley era en realidad solo una versión moderna de la historia de AlJolson.
Personaje
Actriz
Deke Rivers
Elvis Presley
Glenda MarkleLizabethScottWalter (Tex) WarnerWendell CoreySusan JessupDoloresHartCarl MeadeJamesGleasonJim TallmanRalphDumkeTeddySkipYoungSkeeterPaulSmithWayneKenBeckerDaisy BrickerJanaLundHarry TaylorVernonRichMr. CastilloDavidCameronMrs. GundersonGraceHayleSr. JessupWilliamForrestSra. JessupIreneTedrowSallyYvonneLimeEddie (bajista)Bill BlackMúsico (baterista)D.J. FontanaMúsico (guitarrista)Scotty MooreBitBarbaraHearn
Canciones destacadas en Te amo
- Tengo mucho que hacer para vivir
- (Vamos a tener una) fiesta
- (Déjame ser tu) oso de peluche
- perrito caliente
- Vaquero solitario
- Melancolía de mujer mala
- Te amo
- Dancing on a Dare (cantada por el personaje de Hart)
- Desvío (cantado por el personaje de Hart)
- La rosa amarilla (cantada por el personaje de Hart)
- Candy Kisses (realizado por los Rough Ridin' Ramblers)
Créditos para Te amo
- Paramount Pictures
- Producida por Hal B. Wallis
- Dirigida por Hal Kanter
- Guión de Herbert Baker y Hal Kanter
- Basado en una historia de Mary Agnes Thompson
- Fotografiado en VistaVision y Technicolor por Charles Lang, Jr.
- Música de Walter Scharf
- Acompañamiento vocal de The Jordanaires
- Coreografía de Charles O'Curran
- Publicado el 30 de julio de 1957
Para obtener más información sobre Elvis, consulta:
- Elvis Presley
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- Coleccionables de Elvis Presley
- Álbumes de Elvis Presley
- Biografía de Elvis Presley
Roca de la cárcel
El sencillo "Jailhouse Rock" fue el número
uno en el pop gráficos durante siete semanas.
Roca de la cárcel aprovechó con éxito el lado rebelde de la personalidad de Elvis Presley, que era un aspecto de su imagen que todavía ocupaba los titulares en el momento del estreno de la película. Como el amargado Vince Everett, Elvis interpretó al personaje más volátil y emocionante de su carrera cinematográfica.
Después de matar accidentalmente a un hombre en una pelea de bar, Vince cumple una sentencia de homicidio involuntario en la penitenciaría estatal, lo que lo vuelve cínico y egocéntrico. Mientras Vince está en prisión, el ex cantante de country Hunk Houghton, interpretado por el actor Mickey Shaughnessy, toma al joven bajo su protección y le enseña a tocar la guitarra. Después de su lanzamiento, Vince se tropieza con un nuevo estilo de canto. Con la ayuda de la promotora discográfica Peggy Van Alden, interpretada por JudyTyler, arrasa en la industria del entretenimiento.
Más tarde, Hunk se une al séquito de Vince, que crece a medida que el joven y ambicioso cantante se abre camino hacia la cima. Desafortunadamente, Vince deja atrás a Peggy, a pesar de su amor por él. Intentando enseñarle una lección al muchacho arrogante, Hunk golpea a Vince en la garganta, lesionando sus cuerdas vocales. El arrepentido Vince se da cuenta de su amor por Peggy, y su voz se restablece milagrosamente.
Detrás de escena de Roca de la cárcel
Si Amarte intentó presentar a Elvis como un joven sensible e incomprendido, luego Jailhouse Rock estaba destinado a mostrar a Elvis Presley el rebelde. El personaje de Elvis, Vince Everett, es egocéntrico, demasiado agresivo con las mujeres y algo codicioso. Aunque Vince muestra un cambio de opinión durante la película, es su comportamiento rebelde y su actitud desafiante lo que muchos recuerdan de la película. En ninguna parte su comportamiento descarado es más evidente que en la escena en la que imprudentemente agarra a Peggy para besarla. "¿Cómo te atreves a pensar que esas tácticas baratas funcionan conmigo?", lo reprende, alejándolo. "No son tácticas, cariño, eso es solo la bestia que hay en mí", dice arrastrando las palabras en una entrega provocativa que garantiza que todas las chicas del teatro se desmayen.
Sin embargo, Vince Everett fue, en última instancia, solo un personaje que Elvis interpretó en la pantalla. Comportamiento de Elvis tras bambalinas durante la producción de Jailhouse Rock desmintió la actitud rebelde de su personaje en pantalla.
Más de una vez, Elvis acudió galantemente al rescate de sus compañeros de reparto cuando se vieron atrapados en circunstancias potencialmente peligrosas. Durante la escena en la que se suponía que Peggy Van Alden, interpretada por Judy Tyler, saldría corriendo por la puerta de un pequeño club nocturno después de que un Vince enojado, la joven actriz chocó accidentalmente contra la puerta de vidrio y la atravesó con el brazo. Elvis rápidamente se giró, atrapó a Judy y bloqueó la puerta antes de que se volviera y la golpeara de nuevo. En otro caso, Elvis y un hombre de la propiedad pasaban por el vestidor de Jennifer Holden cuando la escucharon gritar. Se había producido un cortocircuito en un calentador eléctrico y su habitación se incendió. Elvis y el utilero corrieron al camerino y rápidamente apagaron las llamas. Elvis llevó a la aterrorizada estrella a un lugar seguro.
Elvis se acurruca con su coprotagonista Judy Tyler,
quien interpretó a Peggy Van Alden
Lejos de ser codicioso o egoísta, Elvis fue conocido a lo largo de su vida por su generosidad con amigos, conocidos e incluso completos extraños. Después de la fotografía principal en Jailhouse Rock se había completado, Elvis decidió presentar a cada miembro de la tripulación con una pequeña muestra de su gratitud. Cada una de las 250 personas del equipo recibió grandes sobres con la inscripción "Gracias a todo el elenco y al equipo". Dentro de cada sobre había una foto de Elvis autografiada personalmente, además de un pequeño regalo.
La sensibilidad de Elvis quedó expuesta a todo el país poco después de que terminara la producción. Elvis quedó devastado cuando la coprotagonista Judy Tyler y Gregory Lafayette, su esposo de solo unos meses, murieron en un espantoso accidente automovilístico cerca de Billy the Kid, Wyoming. Cuando se le informó del accidente, Elvis se derrumbó y lloró. Su reacción fue revelada a un reportero que escribió al respecto para Memphis Commercial Appeal. .
Otros periódicos de todo el país recogieron el incidente. El artículo revelaba a un joven pensativo, que murmuró en un momento de descuido:"Recuerdo la última noche que los vi. Se iban de viaje... Todos los chicos amábamos mucho a esa chica. Ella significaba mucho para todos". nosotros. No creo que pueda soportar ver la película que hicimos juntos ahora..."
Reparto de Jailhouse Rock
Personaje
Actriz
Vince EverettElvis Presley
Peggy Van AldenJudy Tyler
Hunk HoughtonMickey ShaughnessySr. ShoresVaughn TaylorSherry WilsonJennifer HoldenTeddy TalbotDean JonesLaury JacksonAnne NeylandAlcaideHugh SandersSam BrewsterPercy HeltonJack LeasePeter AdamsJefe de estudioWilliam ForrestPaymasterDan WhiteJake el camareroGeorge CisarDottyRobin RaymondAugust Van Alden
Grandon Rhodes
Sra. Van AldenKatharine WarrenPianista
Mike Stoller
BajistaBill BlackBateristaD.J. fontana
Canciones destacadas en Roca de la cárcel
- Joven y hermosa
- Quiero ser libre
- No me dejes ahora
- Trátame bien
- Roca de la cárcel
- (Eres tan cuadrado) Cariño, no me importa
- One More Day (cantado por el personaje de Shaughnessy)
Créditos para Roca de la cárcel
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Producido por Pandro S. Berman
- Dirigida por Richard Thorpe
- Guión de Guy Trosper
- Basado en una historia de Ned Young
- Fotografiado en CinemaScope por Robert Bronner
- Música de Jeff Alexander
- La mayoría de las canciones de Mike Stoller y Jerry Leiber
- Publicado el 17 de octubre de 1957
Para obtener más información sobre Elvis Presley, consulte:
- Elvis Presley
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- Álbumes de Elvis Presley
- Biografía de Elvis Presley
Rey criollo
Elvis Presley recibió las mejores críticas de su carrera con su interpretación de Danny Fisher en King Creole , un drama musical ambientado en Nueva Orleans. Danny está insatisfecho con la situación financiera de su familia asolada por la pobreza y culpa a su padre por sus problemas. Barre en un club nocturno para ganar dinero extra, un trabajo que coloca al joven impresionable en compañía de algunos personajes sombríos. Un encuentro con Ronnie, la moll de un gángster local interpretado por Carolyn Jones, resulta en la expulsión de Danny de la escuela secundaria. En el trabajo esa noche en el club, Danny se encuentra con Ronnie y el gángster Maxie Fields, interpretado por Walter Matthau, quienes insisten en que Danny cante una canción.El talento natural de Danny atrae la atención del dueño del Rey del local nocturno criollo, quien le ofrece trabajo. Danny se encuentra en una encrucijada. Está dividido entre el amor de la buena chica Nellie, interpretada por Dolores Hart, y su atracción por el malogrado Ronnie. Danny también se debate entre su deseo de una carrera como cantante y la tentación de unirse a una pandilla callejera. Un violento altercado con el líder de la pandilla, interpretado por Vic Morrow, deja a Danny con una grave herida de cuchillo. Después de que Ronnie lo cuida hasta que recupera la salud, Maxie, celosa, le dispara a sangre fría. Maxie, a su vez, recibe un disparo de un pandillero del que Danny se había hecho amigo una vez. Danny vuelve a cantar en el King Creole, reconciliado con su familia y con Nellie.
Elvis Presley como Danny Fisher,
actuando en el King Creole.
Generalmente considerada la mejor película narrativa de Elvis, King Creole se benefició del talento de varios notables de Hollywood. El productor Hal Wallis eligió a uno de sus socios más cercanos, el muy respetado Michael Curtiz, para dirigir la película. Mejor conocido como el director de Casablanca , Curtiz fue un artesano experto conocido por su hábil manejo de una amplia variedad de géneros cinematográficos durante sus 30 años de carrera.
El estricto control sobre los muchos giros y tramas secundarias de King Creole refleja la experiencia de Curtiz. Otros veteranos de Hollywood que formaron el equipo incluyeron al director de fotografía Russell Harlan, quien fotografió la película con un estilo de iluminación oscuro y cambiante que capturó la atmósfera sórdida pero seductora del Barrio Francés. El nivel de experiencia que Wallis, Curtiz y Harlan aportaron a la producción de King Creole nunca se igualaría en otra característica de Presley.
El elenco de apoyo de Elvis representó algunos de los mejores
Mientras esté en una ubicación en
En su autobiografía, Wallis recordó un momento particularmente triste para Elvis. Con ganas de probar algo de
Personaje
Actriz
Danny FisherElvis PresleyRonnieCarolyn JonesNellieDolores HartSr. PescadorDean Jagger“Cuarenta” NinaLiliane MontevecchiMaxie FieldsWalter MatthauMimi FisherJan ShepardCharlie LeGrandPaul StewartTiburónVic MorrowSalBrian HuttonDummyJack GrinnageEddie
Canciones presentadas en King Creole
- Cangrejo de río
- Firme, Leal y Verdadero
- Muñeca Amante
- problema
- Roca Dixieland
- Sueños jóvenes
- Mujer testaruda
- Rey criollo
- No me preguntes por qué
- Mientras te tenga a ti
- Tortugas, Bayas y Gumbo (cantado por vendedores ambulantes)
- Banana (cantada por el personaje de Montevecchi)
Créditos para King Creole
- Paramount Pictures
- Producido por Hal B. Wallis
- Dirigida por Michael Curtiz
- Guión de Herbert Baker y Michael Vincente Gazzo
- Basado en la novela Una piedra para Danny Fisher por Harold Robbins
- Fotografiado por Russell Harlan
- Música de Walter Scharf
- Acompañamiento vocal de The Jordanaires
- Coreografía de Charles O'Curran
- Lanzado
Para obtener más información sobre Elvis Presley, consulte:
- Elvis Presley
- Imágenes de Elvis Presley
- Citas de Elvis Presley
- Coleccionables de Elvis Presley
- Álbumes de Elvis Presley
- Biografía de Elvis Presley
G.I. Azules
Elvis Presley se presenta en un show de las
Fuerzas Armadas en soldado americano Azules .
Al igual que
Detrás de escena de G.I. Azules
G.I. Azules marca el debut del nuevo Elvis Presley. Aprovechando la buena publicidad que recibió Elvis por cumplir su período de servicio en el ejército, el Coronel lanzó una nueva imagen más limpia para Elvis después de su baja. Tanto los críticos de cine como las revistas de cine notaron las diferencias en la imagen de Elvis, incluidos los cambios en su apariencia personal y vestimenta. Se acabaron las patillas que la prensa había encontrado tan ofensivas, y se fue el atuendo llamativo y moderno. El nuevo aspecto era más conservador, acorde con
Producida por Hal Wallis, G.I. Azules tomó prestados algunos detalles de la vida personal de Elvis para dar cuerpo a su personaje,
El personaje de Tulsa MacLean es
miembro de una división de tanques , al igual que
el mismo Presley.
Elvis’ management team and the film’sproduction team also attempted to soften the singer’s screen image. Hischaracter is older and more mature, and in one sequence he sings "Wooden Heart" to a group of children at a puppet show; in another hebaby-sits an infant.
Other notable differences included toning downElvis’ controversial performing style in hopes of capturing a familyaudience, not just teenage fans. In G.I. Blues , Elvis nolonger swung his hips when he sang, long-legged costar Juliet Prowsedid it for him. Even though some of the songs in G.I. Blues arefast-paced, they lack the hard-driving sound, emotional delivery, andsexual connotations of his pre-Army recordings. "Mean Woman Blues" hadgiven way to "Pocketful of Rainbows."
A great deal of publicity was generated during the production of G.I. Blues , much of it designed to showcase the new Elvis. Visiting dignitaries from other countries were paraded through the set at a rapid rate. Elvis met the King and Queen of Nepal as well as Princess Margrethe of Denmark, Princess Astrid of Norway, and Princess Margaretha of
The changes in terms of image and film genre do not mean that G.I. Blues was an inferior film, which many Presley biographers have implied. It remains a well-crafted musical comedy with a number of solid songs and a strong female costar. The only negative result of the film was that Elvis would be discouraged from making other types of movies. G.I. Blues is considered the prototype for the other Presley musicals, which, unfortunately, declined in quality as the decade progressed.
Cast of G.I. Blues
Character
Actor
Leticia RomanRick
James DouglasMarla
Sigrid MaierSergeant McGrawArch JohnsonJeeter
Mickey KnoxCaptain Hobart
John HudsonMac
Ken BeckerTurk
Jeremy SlateWarren
Beach DickersonMickey
Carl CrowPapa Mueller
Fred EsslerHarvey
Ronald StarrTrudy
Erika PetersPuppet Show Owner
Ludwig StosselMusicians
Scotty Moore and DJ.
Songs Featured in G.I. Blues
- What’s She Really Like
- G.I. Blues
- Doin’ the Best I Can
- Shoppin’ Around
- Tonight Is So Right for Love
- Wooden Heart
- Pocketful of Rainbows
- Big Boots
- Didja Ever
Credits for G.I. Blues
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Edmund Beloin and Henry Garson
- Photographed in Technicolor by Loyal Griggs
- Music by Joseph J. Lilley
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Choreography by Charles O’Curran
- Released
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Flaming Star
As PacerWhen white settlers murder his mother, played by longtime
Angry over his treatment by other
ranchers in the valley, Elvis Presley,
as Pacer Burton, takes a hard line.
Some Presley biographies have indicated that the role of Pacer
In 1958, Twentieth Century-Fox had purchased the rights to Clair Huffaker’s newest novel, which was not yet complete. Titled The Brothers of Broken Lance at the time, the storyline focused on two characters instead of one. Marlon Brando and Frank Sinatra were offered and accepted the two main roles, that of the
When the novel was completed, it was retitled Flaming Lance . While the novel was being adapted to the script, the focus of the film shifted to one brother. Elvis was the only actor offered the role of Pacer
In Flaming Star , Elvis was given the opportunity to prove himself as a serious actor. That this film was considered an important feature is indicated by the choice of director, scriptwriter, and supporting cast. Don Siegel, who had directed the science-fiction classic Invasion of the Body Snatchers and who would later direct Dirty Harry , guided Elvis through Flaming Star . With author Clair Huffaker, respected scriptwriter Nunnally Johnson adapted the screenplay. The cast included the legendary Dolores
Though the movie provided Elvis with one of his few opportunities to act, the film’s producers and Colonel Parker were nervous about the reaction of fans. To hedge their bets, they attempted to insert four songs into the film. Director Siegel was not pleased with that decision and fought to keep the songs out even after he had shot them. The final version of the film contains two songs.
Siegel realized from his experiences with Flaming Star that Elvis’ chance of pursuing a serious acting career was doomed. He later told Rolling Stone magazine, "I found [Elvis] sensitive and very good, with the exception that he was very unsure of himself...He felt he could have done better things. And his advisors -- namely the Colonel -- were very much against doing this kind of straight role. They tried to get him to sing throughout the picture. Obviously, they didn’t want him to get off the winning horse. But when I was able to calm him down, I thought he gave a beautiful performance."
Cast of Flaming Star
Character
Actor
Elvis Presley
Roslyn PierceBarbara Eden
Clint Burton
Steve ForrestNeddy Burton
Dolores
John MclntireBuffalo Horn
Rudolph AcostaDred Pierce
Karl SwensonDoc Phillips
Ford RaineyAngus Pierce
Richard JaeckelDorothy Howard
Anne BentonTom Howard
L. Q. JonesWill Howard
Douglas DickJute
Tom ReesePh’Sha KnayMarian GoldinaBen Ford
Monte BurkhartMr. Hornsby
Ted JacquesIndian Brave
Rodd RedwingTwo Moons
Perry LopezMatt Holcom
Red West
- Flaming Star
- A Cane and a High Starched Collar
Credits for Flaming Star
- Twentieth Century-Fox
- Produced by David Weisbart
- Directed by Don Siegel
- Screenplay by Clair Huffaker and Nunnally Johnson
- Based on the novel Flaming Lance by Clair Huffaker
- Photographed in DeLuxe Color and CinemaScope by Charles G. Clarke
- Music by Cyril J. Mockridge
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Wild in the Country
Hope Lange played the ‘‘older woman”
Irene Sperry, who causes a scandal
when she falls for Elvis.
The part of Glenn Tyler in Wild in the Country represented Elvis Presley’s last serious role in a film by a significant director. The story opens as Glenn, a Southern boy from a rural, poverty-stricken background, has just been released from juvenile hall. Central to the character of Glenn is that the brooding young man is at a crossroads in his life, and he must choose the path most suitable for him.
His choices are represented by three women. The sensuous Noreen, played by Tuesday Weld, is Glenn’s country cousin who urges Glenn to stay with his own kind. She offers passion and good times, but such a carefree existence allows little thought for the future.
Hope Lange costars as Irene Sperry, the court-appointed psychiatrist assigned to Glenn’s case, who recognizes in him the raw talent of a budding writer. She encourages him to attend college but causes a scandal when she falls in love with her charge.
Finally, childhood sweetheart Betty Lee, played by Millie Perkins, selflessly places Glenn’s future above her own needs, urging him to leave town and attend college. She is prepared to lose him that he may have an education and a secure future. Glenn follows Betty Lee’s advice, asking her to wait for him.
Behind the Scenes of Wild in the Country
Tuesday Weld was one of the trio of female costars (Hope Lange and Millie Perkins were the other two) who provide strong supporting performances. Only 17 years old during the film’s production, Weld was the hottest starlet in
Character
Actor
Irene SperryHope Lange
Noreen
Tuesday WeldBetty Lee ParsonsMillie Perkins
Davis
Rafer JohnsonPhil Macy
John
Gary LockwoodRolfe Braxton
William MimsDr. Underwood
Raymond GreenleafMonica George
Christina CrawfordFlossie
Robin RaymondMrs. Parsons
Doreen LangMr. Parsons
Charles ArntSarah the Maid
Ruby GoodwinWillie Dace
Will CoryProfessor Joe B. LarsonAlan Napier
Judge Parker
Jason Robards, Sr.Sam Tyler
Harry ShannonHank Tyler
Red WestMr. Longstreet
Pat Buttram
Songs Featured in Wild in the Country
- Wild in the Country
- I Slipped, I Stumbled, I Fell
- In My Way
- Husky Dusky Day
Credits for Wild in the Country
- Twentieth Century-Fox
- Produced by Jerry Weld
- Directed by Philip Dunne
- Screenplay by Clifford Odets
- Based on a novel by J.R. Salamanca
- Photographed in DeLuxe Color and CinemaScope by William C. Mellor
- Music by Kenyon Hopkins
- Released
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Blue Hawaii
Blue Hawaii , a musical comedy originally tided Beach Boy , became the most successful film of Elvis Presley’s career. Elvis stars as Chad Gates, whose wealthy family owns a successful pineapple plantation in Hawaii, At the beginning of the film, Chad has just returned from the Army, and his family is eager for him to pursue the family business. Instead, Chad lands a job as a guide in the tourist agency where girlfriend Maile, played by Joan Blackman, also works.His new vocation not only allows him to use his knowledge of the Islands’ most beautiful sites but also affords him enough time to cavort on the beach with his native Hawaiian buddies. Tension mounts as Chad’s blue-blooded mother, played by Angela Lansbury, objects to his job, his girlfriend, and his beach-loving friends. Chad eventually proves a success in the tourist business, and he finally wins the approval of his family by marrying Maile and making plans to open his own tourist agency.
Elvis and a troupe of ukelele-playing beauties pose during the making
of Blue Hawaii .
Much of Blue Hawaii was filmed on location in America’s 50th state, which had only joined the union in 1959. The new state of Hawaii was as eager for the exposure in a major Hollywood film as the producers and actors were to shoot there. Such beautiful Hawaiian locations as Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Park, Lydgate Park, and the Coco Palms Resort Hotel were used in the film; also used were such unglamorous locations as the Honolulu jail.
Despite working primarily on location, the producers experienced only minor problems. The first occurred just prior to shooting. Juliet Prowse, who had been Elvis’ costar in the successful G.I. Blues , was cast opposite Elvis in the role of Maile Duval. She was loaned to Paramount from Twentieth Century-Fox for the film. Eleven days before filming was to begin in Hawaii, Prowse declared that she was not going to report to work until three demands were met. Prowse wanted her Fox makeup man to do her makeup, she wanted the traveling expenses of her secretary to be paid by the producers, and she wanted a change made in her contract regarding her billing. Wallis replaced Prowse with the lesser known Joan Blackman.
In his musical comedies, Elvis often
broke into song at anytime, a
characteristic that he hated about
his films.
Elvis was disappointed that he could not visit the sites, and he often looked out his window to watch others strolling along the beach. One morning he saw a heartfelt message written in the sand by the very fans he needed to be protected from. Elvis was touched by the simple message:"We love you, Elvis!"
One minor incident that caused an unnecessary delay was actually the fault of Colonel Parker. Rain moved in on the location one day, causing the crew to wait hours for a break in the weather. The rain finally stopped, and just as director Taurog was able to roll camera on Elvis running out of the surf, Parker rushed in front of the camera yelling, "Cut, cut!" Proper etiquette on the set maintains that only the director can stop the action. Hal Wallis and Taurog were furious and demanded to know what could be important enough for Parker to halt the shot.
The Colonel slyly pointed out that Elvis was wearing his own watch during the scene. The contract spelled out that Elvis was to provide no part of his wardrobe, including jewelry. If Taurog wanted to keep any part of the shot that had just been done, Wallis and Paramount would have to pay Elvis an extra $25,000. Taurog asked Elvis to remove his watch, and the shot was redone. Why the Colonel pulled this power play is not known.
The success of Blue Hawaii sealed Elvis’ fate in terms of his film career. Though Flaming Star and Wild in the Country had not lost money, neither had they set the box office afire. The Colonel used the box-office grosses of Blue Hawaii to convince Elvis that his fans preferred him in musical comedies.
Cast of Blue HawaiiCharacter
Actor
Maile DuvalJoan Blackman
Sarah Lee GatesAngela Lansbury
Abigail PrenticeNancy Walters
Fred Gates
Roland WintersJack KelmanJohn Archer
Mr. Chapman
Howard McNearTucker Garvey
Steve BrodieEnid Garvey
Iris AdrianWaihilaHilo HattieEllie Corbett
Jennie MaxwellSelena EmersonPamela Kirk
Patsy Simon
Darlene Tompkins
Beverly Martin
Christian Kay
Carl Tanami
Lani Kai
Ernie Gordon
Jose Devega
Ito O'Hara
Frank Atienza
Wes Moto
Ralph (Tiki) Hanalei
Party Guest
Red West
Songs Featured in Blue Hawaii
- Blue Hawaii
- Almost Always True
- Aloha Oe
- No More
- Can’t Help Falling in Love
- Rock-a-Hula Baby
- Moonlight Swim
- Ku-u-i-Po
- Ito Ears
- Slicin’ Sand
- Hawaiian Sunset
- Beach Boy Blues
- Island of Love (Kauai)
- Hawaiian Wedding Song
Credits for Blue Hawaii
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Hal Kanter
- Photographed in Technicolor and Panavision by Charles Lang, Jr.
- Music by Joseph J. Lilley
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Choreography by Charles O’Curran
- Released November 22, 1961
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Follow That Dream
In Follow That Dream , a deviation from his usual musical comedy character, Elvis Presley was Toby Kwimper, a L’il Abner-type in a family of bumbling rural Southerners. The Kwimpers, consisting of Pop, Toby, and several adopted orphans, claim squatter’s rights along an unopened stretch of highway and open a small business renting fishing equipment. Gamblers attempt to take advantage of the Kwimpers’ trusting nature. Eventually, Toby routs the hoods.In the meantime, beautiful social worker Alicia Claypoole, played by Joanna Moore, investigates the Kwimpers’ situation to determine if the children are receiving proper care. Alicia’s attention to Toby angers Holly Jones, played by Anne Helm, who has been in love with the handsome young man since childhood. After Toby declines the social worker’s amorous advances, Alicia attempts to take the children away from Pop Kwimper. Toby and Pop plead their case in a comic courtroom scene, and the judge decides in their favor.
Behind the Scenes of Follow That Dream
Follow That Dream was filmed in sunny
Shooting on actual
Cast of Follow That Dream
Character
Actor
Pop KwimperArthur O'Connell
Holly Jones
Anne HelmAlicia Claypoole
Joanna MooreCarmine
Jack KruschenNick
Simon OaklandJudge Wardman
Roland WintersH. Arthur King
Alan HewittGeorge Binkley
Howard McNearJack
Frank de KovaMr. Endicott
Herbert RudleyEddy Bascombe
Gavin Koon
Teddy Bascombe
Robert Koon
Al
Robert Carricart
Blackie
John Duke
Governor
Harry Holcombe
Bank Guard
Red West
Songs Featured in Follow That Dream
- What a Wonderful Life
- I’m Not the Marrying Kind
- Sound Advice
- On Top of Old Smokey
- Follow That Dream
- Angel
Credits for Follow That Dream
- United Artists
- Produced by David Weisbart
- Directed by Gordon Douglas
- Screenplay by Charles Lederer
- Based on the novel Pioneer, Go Home by Richard Powell
- Photographed in DeLuxe Color and Panavision by Leo Tover
- Music by Hans J. Salter
- Released
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Kid Galahad
To prepare for his role, Elvis trained
champion Mushy Callahan.
A remake of the 1937 drama of the same title starring Edward G. Robinson and Humphrey Bogart, Kid Galahad
Willy’s relationship withWalter changes when Walter fails in love with Willy’s sister, Rose,played by Joan Blackman, Elvis’s costar from Blue Hawaii . Willydoes not want Rose to be involved with Walter, so he allows Walter tobe overmatched for his next fight by a superior boxer. Just before thebig fight, Willy realizes that he has compromised his moral integrity.He and Walter rid themselves of
Behind the Scenes of Kid Galahad
For his role as boxer Walter Gulick, Elvis eagerly began training before the start of production. He prepared for his boxing scenes as a real fighter might prepare for a fight. He did road work, went on a strict protein diet, punched bags, sparred for hours with professionals, and lost 12 pounds in the process.
Coaching the young singer was Mushy Callahan, the junior welterweight champion from 1926 to 1930. Callahan had been plying his skills around Hollywood for some time, having coached actors Kirk Douglas, Errol Flynn, and others in boxing-related films. Callahan was always conscious of training an actor so that his boxing skills suited the character. Callahan praised Elvis for his natural athletic skills -- at least in the publicity for the film. "He’s got a good physique and excellent coordination," the old pro revealed in an interview. "He never boxed before but he picked it up quick because of his karate training."
Cast of Kid Galahad
Character
Actor
Willy GroganGig Young
Dolly Fletcher
Lola AlbrightRose Grogan
Joan BlackmanLew NyackCharles Branson
Mr. LiebermanNed Glass
Mr. Maynard
Robert EmhardtOtto
Joie ShakesMichael Dante
Mr. Zimmerman
Judson PrattMr. Sperling
George MitchellMarvin
Richard Devon
Ralphie
Jeffrey Morris
Father Higgins
Liam Redmond
Jerry the Promoter
Roy Roberts
Peter J. Prohosko
Ralph Moody
Ramon "Sugarboy" Romero
Orlando de la Fuente
Romero's Manager
Frank Gerstle
Frank Gerson
Ed Asner
Fight Announcer
Jimmy Lennon
Bit
Sonny West
Songs Featured in Kid Galahad
- King of the Whole Wide World
- This Is Living
- Riding the Rainbow
- Home Is Where the Heart Is
- I Got Lucky
- A Whistling Tune
Credits for Kid Galahad
- United Artists
- Produced by David Weisbart
- Directed by Phil Karlson
- Screenplay by William Fay
- Based on a story by Francis Wallace
- Photographed in DeLuxe Color by Burnett Guffey
- Music by Jeff Alexander
- Released
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Girls! Girls! Girls!
Ross Carpenter, Elvis Presley’s character in Girls! Girls! Girls! epitomizes the type of role Elvis is most associated with -- the handsome, carefree bachelor with a colorful occupation. Ross works as a charter boat pilot who moonlights as a nightclub singer to buy a sailboat that once belonged to his father. Wealthy Laurel Dodge, played by Laurel Goodwin, falls hard for Ross and secretly buys the sailboat for him.When Ross discovers that
Elvis played a singing boat captain
in Girls! Girls! Girls! , which was shot
in Hawaii. Behind the Scenes of Girls! Girls! Girls!
Girls! Girls! Girls! reteamed Elvis with producer Hal Wallis and director Norman Taurog. The combination of Wallis, Taurog, and Presley had been responsible for two of Elvis’s biggest grossing films, G.I. Blues and Blue
Included in this promotional package were some "hot tips" on how to bolster attendance for the film. For theaters playing the film during football season, it was suggested that a cheering squad from local high schools be used to draw attention to the film. The squad should perform the cheer, "Rah! Rah! Rah! Girls! Girls! Girls!" either in front of the theater or on the football field.
Another suggestion was known as the "Girl Triplets Bally" and involved hiring a set of triplets to parade in front of the theater. The triplets were to be dressed alike and carry identical signs reading, "Girls! Girls! Girls! Starring Elvis Presley." This suggestion concluded by advising, "If triplets aren’t available, any three teen-agers of the same height would do as well." Fortunately, Elvis had a large enough following that
Character
Actor
Ross CarpenterElvis Presley
Robin GantnerStella Stevens
Wesley JohnsonJeremy Slate
Chen YungGuy Lee
Kin Yung
Benson FongMadam Yung
Beulah QuoAlexander StavrosFrank Puglia
Mama StavrosLili ValentySam
Robert StraussMai LingGinny TiuTai LingElizabeth TiuBaby Brother Ling
Alexander Tiu
Mr. Morgan
Nester Paiva
Mrs. Morgan
Ann McCrea
Bongo Player on Tuna Boat
Red West
Mr. Peabody
Gavin Gordon
Leona Stavros
Barbara Beall
Linda Stavros
Betty Beall
Mrs. Dick
Marjorie Bennett
Songs Featured in Girls! Girls! Girls!
- Girls! Girls! Girls!
- I Don’t Wanna Be Tied
- We’ll Be Together
- A Boy Like Me. A Girl Like You
- Earth Boy
- Return to Sender
- Because of Love
- Thanks to the Rolling Sea
- Song of the Shrimp
- The Walls Have Ears
- We’re Coming in Loaded
- Dainty Little Moonbeams
- Girls! Girls! Girls (reprise)
- Never Let Me Go (sung by Stevens’ character)
- The Nearness of You (sung by Stevens’ character)
- Baby, Baby, Baby (sung by Stevens’ character)
- Mama (sung by Elvis,
Credits for Girls! Girls! Girls!
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Edward Anhalt and Allan Weiss
- Photographed in Technicolor by Loyal Griggs
- Music by Joe Lilly
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Choreography by Charles O’Curran
- Released
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It Happened at the World's Fair
In It Happened at the World’s Fair , a musical comedy filmed against the backdrop of the 1963 Seattle World’s Fair, Elvis Presley’s character, Mike Edwards, and partner Danny Burke, portrayed by Gary Lockwood, hitchhike to Seattle to find work. The two desperately need money to reclaim their airplane, on which the sheriff has attached a lien. They hitch a ride with a Chinese farmer and his seven-year-old niece, Sue-Lin, played by talented Vicky Tiu.
When business unexpectedly occupies the uncle, Mike takes Sue-Lin on a tour of the World’s Fair, where he meets and falls for nurse Diane Warren, portrayed by Joan O’Brien. When Sue-Lin’s uncle fails to return, Mike takes responsibility for the little girl. Mike’s situation goes from bad to worse when Child Welfare takes Sue-Lin away and Danny inadvertently becomes involved with a smuggling operation. Mike, Danny, and law officials eventually subdue the smugglers. The film ends happily when Sue-Lin finds her uncle and Mike and Diane find each other.
Behind the Scenes of It Happened at the World’s Fair
The transformation of Elvis from rock ‘n’ roller to handsome leading man that had begun after Elvis’ discharge from the Army was complete by World’s Fair . The change was indicated by the clothes Elvis wore for the film. Newspapers and news magazines ran articles about the specific attire designed for Elvis for the film, but fanzines constructed stories indicating that Elvis had completely changed his mode of dress, both on-screen and off.
Sy Devore, a leading Hollywood tailor, was given the job of dressing Elvis for the film. He designed a series of conservative suits and ties to make Elvis "look like a smart, well-dressed young businessman," according to producer Ted Richmond. Devore had to be especially careful about the trousers because Elvis supposedly wore no underwear during this period. The wardrobe, consisting of ten suits, four sports jackets, 30 shirts, 15 pairs of slacks, two cashmere coats, and 55 ties, cost about $10,000.
Character
Actor
Mike EdwardsElvis Presley
Diane Warren
Joan O’BrienDanny Burke
Gary LockwoodSue-Lin
Vicky TiuVince Bradley
H.M. WynantMiss Steuben
Edith
Guy RaymondMiss Ettinger
Dorothy GreenWalter Ling
Kam TongDorothy Johnson
Yvonne CraigSheriff Garland
Russell ThorsonMechanic
Wilson WoodMr. Farr
Robert B. WilliamsHenry Johnson
Olan SouleEmma Johnson
Jacqueline DewitCharlie
Red West
June
Sandra Giles
Boy Who Kicks Elvis
Kurt Russell
Carnival Man
Joe Esposito
Songs Featured in It Happened at the World’s Fair
- Beyond the
- Relax
- Take Me to the Fair
- They Remind Me Too Much of You
- One Broken Heart for
- I’m Falling in Love Tonight
- Cotton Candy Land
- A World of Our Own
- How Would You Like To Be
- Happy Ending
Credits for It Happened at the World’s Fair
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Ted Richmond
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Si Rose and Seaman Jacobs
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Joseph Ruttenberg
- Music by
- Choreography by Jack Baker
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires and The Mello Men
- Released
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Fun in Acapulco
Elvis Presley on set during the
filming of Fun in Acapulco.
Mike becomes involved with two exotic women-- hotel social director Marguerita Dauphin, played by Ursula Andress, and ladybullfighter Dolores Gomez, played by Elsa Cardenas. Mike soon finds himself incompetition with another hotel lifeguard, who every night performs adeath-defying jump off the ocean cliffs near the hotel. This rival uncoversMike’s past and tricks him into jumping off the cliffs. Ultimately, Mike’sdecision to jump helps him overcome his fears. He decides to spend his lifewith Marguerita.
Behind the Scenes of Fun in
In much of the publicity generated during Elvis’s
Character
Actor
Mike WindgrenElvis Presley
Marguerita DauphinUrsula Andress
Dolores Gomez
ElsaCardenasMaximilian DauphinPaul Lukas
Raoul Almeido
LarryDomasinMoreno
Alejandro ReyJose Garcia
RobertCarricartJanie Harkins
TeriHopeMariachi Los VaquerosThemselves
Mariachi AguilaThemselves
Dr. John Stevers
HowardMcNearMr. Ramirez
AlbertoMorinMrs. Stevers
Mary Treen
Mr. Perez
Salvador Baguez
Mr. Delgado
Edward Colmans
Mr. Harkins
Charles Evans
Guard
Mike Deanda
Manager of Tropicana
Martin Garralaga
Photographer
Tom Hernandez
Poolside Guest
Red West
Songs Featured in Fun in
- Fun in
- Vino, Dinero, y Amor
- I Think I’m Gonna Like It Here
- Marguerita
- The Bullfighter Was a Lady
- (There’s) No Room to Rhumba in a Sports Car
- Bossa Nova Baby
- You Can’t Say No in
Credits for Fun in
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by Richard Thorpe
- Screenplay by Allan Weiss
- Photographed in Technicolor by Daniel L. Fapp
- Music by Joseph J. Lilley
- Musical accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Choreography by Charles O’Curran
- Released
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Kissin' Cousins
Elvis Presley plays a dual role in Kissin’ Cousins , an extremelylow-budget musical comedy set in the hills ofWhen he visits the Tatums, Josh runs into his blond-haired double as well astwo beautiful country cousins, Azalea and Selena. The two girls, played byYvonne Craig and Pam Austin respectively, both vie for Josh’s affections. Josheventually chooses Azalea but not before pairing off Selena with his bestfriend. In the meantime, Jodie takes up with Midge, a beautiful but fiery WAGplayed by Cynthia Pepper. Josh persuades Pappy Tatum to sell one side of hismountain to the government as long as the military does not interfere withPappy’s moonshining on the other side.
Sam Katzman’s films were long on
corny musical numbers hut short
on production values.
Behind the Scenes of Kissin’ Cousins
Kissin’ Cousins , produced by Sam Katzman, is consistentlysingled out as Elvis’s worst film. Katzman had a notorious reputation forchurning out low-budget films on short schedules. Estimates on how long it tookto shoot Kissin’ Cousins vary from source to source, but all claim it was lessthan three weeks. The film was budgeted at $800,000, compared with the $4million budget of Blue
To help control expenses, the songs were written inassembly-line fashion. Katzman decided that since the film had a “country”theme, the songs should be recorded in
The few exterior shots for the film were done at
Kissin’ Cousins marked a change in approach toward makingElvis’ films. It seemed to set a pattern in which the shooting schedules grewshorter and the budgets got lower. Some argue that Colonel Parker realized thatElvis’ popularity was starting to wane, so he began seeking out producers whocould lower production costs, as well as seeking out resorts and hotels thatwould allow the casts and crews to stay for free. There is no actual proof ofthis. Perhaps the reverse was true. The decline in production valuesaccompanying lower budgets and shorter schedules could have contributed to thedecline in box-office receipts.
Cast of Kissin' CousinsCharacter
Actor
Josh MorganElvis Presley
Jodie Tatum
Elvis Presley
Pappy Tatum
ArthurO’ConnellMa Tatum
GlendaFarrellCapt. Robert Jason SalboJack Albertson
Selena Tatum
PamAustinAzalea Tatum
YvonneCraigCpl. Midge RileyCynthia Pepper
Gen. Alvin DonfordDonald Woods
M. sargento William George BaileyTommy Farrell
Trudy
Beverly Powers
Dixie Cate
Hortense Petra
Gen. Donford's Aide
Robert Stone
Gen. Sam Kruger
Robert Carson
Mike
Joe Esposito
Hairy Willie
W.J. (Sailor) Vincent
Jonesy
Joan Staley
Minnie
Lonni Lees
Songs Featured in Kissin’ Cousins
- Kissin’ Cousins
- Smokey Mountain Boy
- One Boy, Two Little Girls
- Catchin’ on Fast
- Tender Feeling
- Barefoot Ballad
- Once Is Enough
- Kissin’ Cousins (reprise)
- Pappy, Won’t You Please Come Home (sung by Farrell’s character)
Credits for Kissin’ Cousins
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Sam Katzman
- Directed by Gene Nelson
- Screenplay by Gerald Drayson Adams and Gene Nelson
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Ellis W. Carter
- Music by Fred Karger
- Released March 6, 1964
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Viva Las Vegas
Elvis and Ann-Margret make a
dynamic team.
He and fellow driverCount Elmo Mancini, played by Cesare Danova, are rivals on the track as well asoff the track, competing for the affections of Rusty. Rusty works at the samehotel as Lucky, who throughout the film is trying to raise money to fix hiscar. Rusty is reluctant to become seriously involved with Lucky because of thedangers of his occupation. Eventually, she changes her mind and assists him inhis last-minute efforts to complete his repairs. Lucky lives up to his name andwins the Grand Prix.
Behind the Scenes of Viva
Elvis was not restricted to working only for Hal Wallis and Paramount,since the contract he signed with them was not an exclusive one. Elvis alsoworked for other producers at other studios, including MGM, United Artists, andAllied Artists. Interestingly, the producers from these other studios tended tofollow the musical comedy formula that Wallis had developed for Elvis, andoccasionally even improving on it. Though Viva
Viva
The chemistry between Elvis and
Ann-Margret is readily apparent
even in the publicity stills.
When Elviscomplained to the Colonel, the big guns came to the rescue and the crew memberwas soon chastised. Elvis ultimately realized it was not the fault ofAnn-Margret, and the two young performers quickly grew close. The obviouschemistry between them was an asset to their performances on-screen. The twogenerated an electricity during their musical numbers seldom matched in Elvis’slater films.
Ann-Margret shared many things in common with Elvis,including the pressures of a show business career. Both enjoyed similaractivities, such as riding motorcycles, and she got along well with Elvis’group of buddy-bodyguards. They called her "Rusty Ammo," or "Ann-Margrock."
The romance between these two high-profile stars did notsurvive the production of the film. Rumors abound as to what split them up,ranging from Elvis’ relationship with Priscilla Beaulieu to Ann-Margret’shasty confession to the press that she and Elvis were engaged. Though therelationship did not work out in the long term, Elvis and Ann-Margret remainedfriends for the rest of his life. Elvis would later marry Priscilla Beaulieu,and Ann-Margret would marry actor Roger Smith. According to Ann-Margret, Elvissent her flowers in the shape of a guitar on the opening night of every one ofher
Character
Actor
Lucky
Rusty MartinAnn-Margret
Count Elmo ManciniCesareDanovaMr. Martin
WilliamDemarestShorty FarnsworthNicky Blair
Jack CarterHimself
Mr. SwansonRobertB. WilliamsBig Gus OlsonBob Nash
Mr. Baker
RoyEngelMechanic
BarnabyHaleDriver
Ford DunhillMaster of Ceremonies
Eddie Quillan
Manager at Swingers
George Cisar
Delivery Boy
Rick Murray
The Forte Four
Themselves
Showgirls
AleaneMambi Hamilton, Beverly Powers, Kay Sutton, Ingeborg Kjeldsen, Teri Garr
Songs Featured in Viva Las Vegas
- Viva Las Vegas
- The Yellow Rose of Texas
- The Lady Loves Me
- C’mon Everybody
- Today, Tomorrow and Forever
- What’d I Say
- Santa Lucia
- If You Think I Don’t Love You
- I Need Somebody to Lean On
- My Rival (sung by Ann-Margret’s character)
- Appreciation (sung by Ann-Margret’s character)
- The Climb (sung by The Forte Four)
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Jack Cummings and George Sidney
- Directed by George Sidney
- Screenplay by Sally Benson
- Photographed in Metrocolor by Joseph Biroc
- Music by George Stoll
- Choreography by David Winters
- Released June 17, 1964
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Roustabout
Playing opposite Barbara Stanwyck this time out in Roustabout ,Elvis Presley was in awe of his costar and worked hard to live up to herprofessional standards. Unfortunately, the scriptwriters were less demanding ofthemselves, and the film suffers from banal dialogue and predictable plotting.Elvis stars as Charlie Rogers, a drifter with a chip on his shoulder who landsa job as a roustabout, or handyman, with a down-and-out carnival operated bystrong-willed Maggie Morgan, played by Stanwyck.
When Charlie breaks into songon the midway one day, throngs of young people flock to hear him sing. As newsof his talent spreads, Maggie’s carnival begins to turn a tidy profit.Charlie’s good fortune continues as Cathy, a beautiful young carnival workerplayed by Joan Freeman, takes a romantic interest in him. However, after amisunderstanding involving a customer’s missing wallet, Maggie and Cathy chideCharlie for his selfish attitudes. The embittered young man quits Maggie’soutfit to work for a rival carnival. When Maggie’s carnival starts to go under,Charlie returns with enough money to ward off the creditors. His unselfish actwins Maggie’s respect as well as Cathy’s heart.
Elvis Presley as Charlie Rogers, performing at the carnival.
Behind the Scenes of Roustabout
A cast of big-name stars, including Barbara Stanwyck, Leif Erickson,and Jack Albertson, made Roustabout one of Elvis’ best vehicles. Wallis’solid reputation in Hollywood often helped secure some of the bigger names forElvis’ movies, and this film was no exception. Supposedly, Mae West was firstapproached for Stanwyck’s role but declined the offer. The combination of ElvisPresley and Mae West would have made a sensational screen pairing. Stanwyck’simage as a tough, independent woman suited the character. Edith Head, Hollywood’smost illustrious costume designer, did the clothing for the film, evendesigning a special pair of formfitting jeans for Stanwyck. Elvis would latersay that working with Stanwyck made him a better actor.
Cast of RoustaboutCharacter
Actor
Charlie Rogers
Elvis Presley
Maggie Morgan
BarbaraStanwyckCathy Lean
JoanFreemanJoe Lean
LeifEricksonMadame MijanouSue Ane Langdon
Harry Carver
PatButtramMarge
Joan StaleyArthur Nielsen
DabbsGreerFreddie
Steve BrodieSam, A College Student
NormanGrabowskiLou
JackAlbertsonHazel
Jane DuloCody Marsh
Joe Fluellen
Billy
Billy Barty
Little Egypt
Wilda Taylor
Viola
Marianna Hill
Strong Man
Richard Kiel
Carnival Worker
Red West
College Student
Raquel Welch
Songs Featured in Roustabout
- Roustabout
- Poison Ivy League
- Wheels on My Heels
- It’s a Wonderful World
- It’s Carnival Time
- One Track Heart
- Hard Knocks
- Little
- Big Love, Big Heartache
- There’s a Brand New Day on the Horizon
Credits for Roustabout
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by John Rich
- Screenplay by Anthony Lawrence and Allan Weiss
- Photographed in Technicolor and Techniscope by LucienBallard
- Music by Joseph L. Lilley
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Girl Happy
To take advantage of the popularity among college studentsof theBig Frank’s big weakness is his onlydaughter Valerie, who insists on spending her Easter vacation in sunny, sinful
Girl Happy remained on Billboard’s
Top LPs chartfar 31 weeks, peaking
at number eight.
After working on several musical vehicles back-to-back,Elvis began to tire of the same type of role over and over. He also complainedof the endless succession of mediocre pop tunes that filled each soundtrack.Sensing his disillusionment, director Boris Sagal took Elvis aside and urgedhim to stop his grueling film schedule. Sagal suggested that Elvis take timeoff to study acting in
The director supposedly told Elvis, "Every actor studies his trade, even thoseas good as Marlon Brando." Elvis agreed, admitting that he looked forward tothe day when he could do a film without any music. But Girl Happy would not bethat film. This lively but formulaic spring vacation comedy contained 11 songsfor Elvis -- about average for a Presley picture.
Girl Happy featured some familiar faces from otheryouth-oriented films, including Joby Baker, Jimmy Hawkins, and Gary Crosby asElvis’ wacky musical trio. Of the three actors, only Crosby (the son of BingCrosby) had any musical talent.
The film also costarred television actressShelley Fabares, whose popularity with audiences was undoubtedly the result ofher role as the eldest daughter on "The Donna Reed Show." No stranger to thepop music scene, she had recorded "Johnny Angel," a number-one hit in 1962. Herrole opposite Elvis in Girl Happy proved quite successful, and she costarred intwo subsequent Presley films, Spinout and Clambake . Elvis later declared her tobe his favorite costar.
Of the dozen or so tunes in Girl Happy , two are particularlymemorable -- the low-down and bluesy "Wolf Call" and the easy-sounding ballad "Puppet on a String." One song in the film is frequently mentioned as one ofthe worst tunes ever recorded by Elvis, though he should not have to shoulderthe blame. "Do the Clam" was written as accompaniment for a dance called theclam that was specially created for the film by choreographer David Winters.
Winters, the dance director for the rock ‘n’ roll TV program "Hullabaloo," hadalso choreographed Viva
Character
Actor
Rusty WellsElvis Presley
Valerie Frank
ShelleyFabaresMr. Frank
HaroldJ. StoneAndy
Gary CrosbyWilbur
Joby BakerSunny Daze
NitaTalbotDeen Shepherd
MaryAnn MobleyRomano
Fabrizio MioniSergeant Benson
JackieCooganDoc
JimmyHawkins
Mr. Penchill
John Fiedler
Betsy
Chris Noel
Laurie
Lyn Edgington
Nancy
Gale Gilmore
Bobbie
Pamela Curran
Linda
Rusty Allen
Wolf Call O'Brien
Norman Grabowski
Charlie
Dan Haggerty
Extra in Kit Kat Club
Red West
Songs Featured in Girl Happy
- Girl Happy
- Spring Fever
- Startin’ Tonight
- Wolf Call
- Do Not Disturb
- Cross My Heart and Hope to Die
- The Meanest Girl in Town
- Do the Clam
- Puppet on a String
- I’ve Got to Find My Baby
- Read All About It (sung by Talbot’s and Fabares’characters)
Credits for Girl Happy
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Joe Pasternak
- Directed by Boris Sagal
- Screenplay by Harvey Bullock and R.S. Allen
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Philip H.Lathrop
- Music by George Stoll
- Music accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Tickle Me
Elvis and costar Jocelyn Lane.
In 1971, Lane became a princess
when she married into royalty.
Here,Elvis stars as Lonnie Beale, a singing rodeo cowboy who moonlights as ahandyman at a beauty spa. Though several women try to catch the attention ofLonnie, including spa owner Vera Radford, played by Julie Adams, the rodeorider falls for Pam Merritt. Pam, portrayed by Jocelyn Lane, is visiting thespa to investigate a nearby ghost town where her grandfather has supposedlyhidden a cache of gold.
Pam enlists the help of Lonnie and his sidekickStanley, played by Jack Mullaney, to recover the treasure. Unscrupulous locals,also looking for the gold, try to frighten the hapless trio into leaving theterritory, but the three eventually prevail. Lonnie and Pam marry at the end,marking one of the few times that one of Elvis’s characters actually wedson-screen.
Behind the Scenes of Tickle Me
Tickle Me represented a somewhat different arrangementbetween Colonel Parker, Elvis, and Allied Artists Productions, the studioproducing the film. Allied was facing deep financial trouble. They desperatelywanted to make a deal with Elvis because a Presley picture was a guaranteedmoney-maker. The Colonel agreed to cut Elvis’ salary from $1 million to$750,000 (plus the usual 50 percent of the profits) to help Allied cutexpenses. This meant that the studio had to come up with the rest of the budget-- a mere $750,000. To keep within that minuscule budget, no new songs werepurchased or recorded for the film. The soundtrack was made up of previouslyrecorded Elvis tunes. True to form, this Elvis musical comedy was financiallysuccessful. Allied executive Steve Brody later admitted Elvis’ hand in savinghis studio, "You might say they were ready to wheel the patient out when Dr.Presley came in."
Cast of Tickle MeCharacter
Actor
Lonnie Beale
Elvis Presley
Vera Radford
JulieAdamsPam Merritt
Jocelyn LaneStanley Potter
Jack MullaneyEstelle PenfieldMerryAndersDeputy John SturdivantBill Williams
Brad Bentley
EdwardFaulknerHilda
ConnieGilchristBarbara
Barbara WerleAdolph the Chef
JohnDennisMr. DabneyGrady Sutton
Mabel
Allison Hayes
Ophelia
Inez Pedroza
Ronnie
Lilyan Chauvin
Donna
Angela Greene
Henry the Gardener
Robert Hoy
Mrs. Dabney
Dorothy Konrad
Pat
Eve Bruce
Mildred
Francine York
Bully in Bar
Red West
Songs Featured in Tickle Me
- Long, Lonely Highway
- It Feels So Right
- (Such an) Easy Question
- Dirty, Dirty Feeling
- Put the Blame on Me
- I’m Yours
- Night Rider
- I Feel That I’ve Known You Before
- Slowly hut Surely
Credits for Tickle Me
- Allied Artists Productions
- Produced by Ben Schwalb
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Elwood Ullman and Edward Bernds
- Photographed in DeLuxe Color and Panavision by Loyal Griggs
- Music by Walter Scharf
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Choreography by David Winters
- Released
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Harum Scarum
Elvis Presley as Johnny Tyronne in
Harum Scarum .
Johnny escapes and falls in with a band of pickpockets androgues, all the while rescuing damsels in distress and singing a variety ofpop-styled tunes. Johnny falls in love with a beautiful handmaiden, played byMary Ann Mobley; unbeknownst to him, she is really Princess Shalimar, daughterof King Toranshah. Johnny thwarts the assassination attempt on the king, winsthe heart of Princess Shalimar, and returns to
Behind the Scenes of Harum Scarum
With a shooting schedule of only 18 days, Harum Scarum was ano-frills production with little time or money to spend on props, costumes, orset design. Little if anything was actually purchased or designed for the film,a not uncommon practice for low-budget productions.
The temple set hadoriginally been built in 1925 for a Cecil B. DeMille silent feature called Kingof Kings . The costumes worn by the extras in Harum Scarum had been used in the1944 version of Kismet and then retailored for the 1955 musical remake. Eventhe dagger carried by Elvis had been used in an earlier adventure film, Lady ofthe Tropics . Little effort was invested in the script, and the plot was throwntogether following the same Presley formula. ¿Qué tan malo fue? The Colonelsuggested adding a talking camel to the storyline, which was seriouslyconsidered for a time before it was mercifully dropped.
Character
Actor
Johnny Tyronne
Elvis Presley
Princess Shalimar
MaryAnn MobleyAishah
Fran JeffriesPrincess Dragna
MichaelAnsaraZacha
Jay NovelloKing Toranshah
PhilipReedSinan
Theo MarcuseBaba
Billy BartyMokar
Dick HarveyJulna
JackCostanzaCaptain Herat
LarryChanceLeilah
Barbara WerleEmerald
Brenda BenetSapphire
GailGilmoreAmethyst
WildaTaylorSari
VickiMalkinMustapha
RyckRydonScarred Bedouin
RichardReevesYussef
Joey Russo
Assassin
Red West
Songs Featured in Harum Scarum
- Harem
- My Desert Serenade
- Go East, Young Man
- Mirage
- Kismet
- Shake That Tambourine
- Hey, Little Girl
- Golden Coins
- So Close, Yet So Far (from
Credits for Harum Scarum
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Sam Katzman
- Directed by Gene Nelson
- Screenplay by Gerald Drayson Adams
- Photographed in Metrocolor by Fred H. Jackman
- Music by Fred Karger
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Frankie and Johnny
Elvis and Donna Douglas in period
costume in Frankie and Johnny .
In the film, the songhas been specially written for riverboat performers Frankie and Johnny, playedby Donna Douglas and Elvis. Johnny is a gambler whose bad luck changes whendancer Nellie Bly, played by Nancy Kovack, joins the troupe aboard theriverboat. Each night, the three perform the number "Frankie and Johnny"onstage. As Johnny’s interest in Nellie increases, Frankie’s jealousy ispiqued. One night, someone loads real bullets into Frankie’s prop gun, and Johnnyis shot during the performance. As luck would have it, Johnny is saved by acharm that he wears around his neck.
Behind the Scenes of Frankie and Johnny
One of the few period pieces Elvis starred in during hisfilm career, Frankie and Johnny was set during the Victorian Era and made fulluse of its colorful costumes and riverboat setting. The reviews were mixedregarding the film:Some critics felt the setting was a welcome change for aPresley picture, while others recognized the same old storyline under theperiod costumes.
Despite the nay-sayers, the film benefited from the juicysecondary roles played by a seasoned cast of character actors. Harry Morgan,who later gained recognition on the TV series "M*A*S*H," played Cully the pianoplayer. Sue Ane Langdon portrayed Mitzi, the girl who is always edged out inthe romance department. It was the type of role that had become Langdon’sspecialty. Robert Strauss, the burly villain in many crime dramas, playedBlackie, the boss’s stooge. Directed by Frederick de Cordova, who later becamethe director of "The Tonight Show," the film is notable for its good productionvalues.
Character
Actor
Johnny
Elvis Presley
Frankie
Donna Douglas
Cully
Harry MorganMitzi
Sue AneLangdonNellie Bly
NancyKovackPeg
AudreyChristieBlackie
Robert StraussBraden
Anthony EisleyAbigail
Joyce JamesonJoe Wilbur
JeromeCowanProprietor of Costume Shop
JamesMilhollinPrincess Zolita
NaomiStevensGypsy
Henry CordenPete the Bartender
DaveWillockMan on the Street
Richard J. Reeves
Bit
George Klein
Songs Featured in Frankie and Johnny
- Come Along
- Petunia, the Gardener’s Daughter
- Chesay
- What Every Woman Lives For
- Frankie and Johnny
- Look Out, Broadway
- Beginner’s Luck
- Down by the Riverside/When the Saints Go Marching In
- Shout It Out
- Hard Luck
- Please Don’t Stop Loving Me
- Everybody Come Aboard
Credits for Frankie and Johnny
- United Artists
- Produced by Edward Small
- Directed by Frederick de Cordova
- Screenplay by Alex Gottlieb
- Based on a story by Nat Perrin
- Photographed in Technicolor by Jacques Marquette
- Music by Fred Karger
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released March 31, 1966
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Paradise, Hawaiian Style
Amisunderstanding involving a forced helicopter landing results in Rick havinghis license temporarily suspended. Under orders from the Federal AviationAgency (FAA) not to fly, Rick risks his license to rescue Danny and hisdaughter from a deserted island. The FAA understands the mitigatingcircumstances surrounding Rick’s decision and assures him he will be able tofly again. In the meantime, Rick discovers that Judy is not married, and thetwo embark on romance.
Elvis reprises a dramatic rendition of "Drums of the Islands"
during the colorful finale.
Behind the Scenes of Paradise, Hawaiian Style
Elvis became notorious for romancing the female costars ofhis films. From Tuesday Weld and Ann-Margret to such lesser-known starlets asYvonne Craig and Joan O’Brien, Elvis often swept his costars off their feetboth on the screen and off. One actress who was not impressed with Elvis,either professionally or personally, was Marianna Hill, who gained attention asElvis’s partner in the "Scratch My Back" number from Paradise, Hawaiian Style .
According to press interviews at the time, Hill was annoyed with members ofElvis’ management team who kept asking the skeptical actress, "Hasn’t Elvisgot talent?" Always honest but diplomatic, Hill managed to reply that shethought he was "a show business phenomenon." When asked if she would dateElvis, she replied, "No," citing the singer’s ever-present staff of bodyguardsand pals as a bit odd.
Character
Actor
Greg "Rick" RichardsElvis Presley
Judy Hudson
SuzannaLeighDanny Kohana
JamesShigetaJan Kohana
DonnaButterworthLani KaimanaMarianna Hill
Pua
Irene TsuLehua KawenaLinda Wong
Joanna
Julie ParrishBetty Kohana
JanShepardDonald Belden
JohnDoucetteMoke KaimanaPhilip Ahn
Mr. Cubberson
GradySuttonAndy Lowell
DanCollierMrs. Daisy Barrington
Doris Packer
Mrs. Belden
Mary Treen
Peggy
Gi Gi Verone
Dancer
Edy Williams
Rusty
Red West
Songs Featured in Paradise, Hawaiian Style
- Paradise, Hawaiian Style
- Queenie Wahini’s Papaya
- Scratch My Back (Then I’ll Scratch Yours)
- Drums of the Islands
- A Dog’s Life
- Datin’
- House of Sand
- Stop Where You Are
- This Is My Heaven
- Bill Bailey, Won’t You Please Come Home (sung by Butterworth’s character)
Credits for Paradise, Hawaiian Style
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by Michael Moore
- Screenplay by Allan Weiss and Anthony Lawrence
- Photographed in Technicolor by W. Wallace Kelley
- Music by Joseph J. Lilley
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released July 6, 1966
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Spinout
Elvis played a race car driver in this
breezy comedy.
Fast cars are not nearlyas dangerous for Mike as beautiful women, all of whom want to race him down theaisle to marriage. Les, played by perky Deborah Walley, works as the drummer inMike’s band, and she is extremely jealous of his attention toward other women.Also vying for Mike’s affection is sophisticated Cynthia Foxhugh, played byShelley Fabares, who is the daughter of wealthy auto magnate Howard Foxhugh.Finally, representing the intellectual type is writer Diana St. Clair, playedby Diane McBain, who falls in love with Mike while finishing her book ThePerfect American Male .
In an ending that seems to mock Elvis films in general,Mike does not end up marrying any of these women. Instead, he succeeds inwedding them to friends and associates, while he remains free to begin a newromance.
Behind the Scenes of Spinout
The story of how Spinout came to be proves that Elvis’movies were perceived by
They quickly finished the script and showed it to the Colonel, whodeclared that he loved it. Just one thing, though. Could they put a dog in it?Kirgo and Flicker accommodated the Colonel, only to be summoned by theproducers a few days later. Could they put a race car in it? Again, theyobliged, though it changed the focus of their original idea, which had been todo a romantic farce. Their title for the film -- After
Character
Actor
Mike McCoy
Elvis Presley
Cynthia FoxhughShelleyFabaresDiana St. ClairDianeMcBainLes
DeborahWalleySusan
Jack Mullaney
Lt. Tracy Richards
WillHutchinsPhilip Shore
Warren BerlingerLarry
JimmyHawkinsHoward FoxhughCarlBetzBernard RanleyCecilKellawayViolet Ranley
Una Merkel
Blodgett
Frederic Worlock
Harry
Dave Barry
Race Announcer
Jay Jasin
Shorty Bloomquist
James McHale
Shorty's Pit Crew
Red West and Joe Esposito
Songs Featured in Spinout
- Spinout
- Stop, Look, and Listen
- Adam and Evil
- All That I Am
- Never Say Yes
- Am I Ready
- Beach Shack
- Smorgasbord
- I’ll Be Back
Credits for Spinout
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Joe Pasternak
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by George Kirgo and Theodore Flicker
- Photographed in Metrocolor by Daniel L. Fapp
- Music by George Stoll
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Easy Come, Easy Go
Earlier titles for the film included
Port of Call , A Girl in Every Port ,
Nice and Easy , and Easy Does It .
Ted tracks down this descendant -- avivacious young woman named Jo Symington, played by Dodie Marshall. Jo believesthe chest contains pieces-of-eight. She agrees to help Ted if the money isgiven to the community arts center. Their attempts to retrieve the treasure areimpeded by scoundrels Gil Carey and Dina Bishop.
Carey and Bishop steal Ted’sequipment and kidnap Captain Jack, but Ted tracks them down and rescues Jack.When Ted opens the chest, he discovers that the coins are copper, not gold. Teddonates the money for a down payment on a new arts center, winning Jo in theprocess.
Behind the Scenes of Easy Come, Easy Go
Elvis usually got along well with his directors; theexception was John Rich, who directed Elvis in Roustabout and Easy Come, EasyGo . More a television director than a film director, Rich managed to snag somebig-screen assignments during the mid-1960s. His film work tended to be glossybut uninspired. Rich and Elvis did not get along on the set of Roustabout , andtheir mutual feelings of animosity did not disappear by the time cameras rolledon Easy Come, Easy Go .
One afternoon, Elvis and Red West were trying to do ascene together but were hampered by a case of the giggles. Angered by what hefelt was unprofessional behavior, Rich threw all of Elvis’s buddy-bodyguardsoff the set. Elvis was furious. He put everything into perspective for Rich andthe film’s producers when he frankly told them, "Now, just a minute. We’redoing these movies because it’s supposed to be fun, nothing more. Now when theycease to be fun, then we’ll cease to do them." If that had only been the case...
Character
Actor
Ted Jackson
Elvis Presley
Jo Symington
DodieMarshallDina Bishop
PatPriestJudd Whitman
PatHarrington, Jr.Gil Carey
SkipWardMadame Neherina
ElsaLanchesterCaptain Jack
FrankMcHughLt. Marty Schwartz
SandyKenyonCooper
Ed GriffithLieutenant Tomkins
ReedMorganLieutenant Whitehead
MickeyElleyVicki
ElaineBeckettMary
Shari NimsZoltan
Diki LernerTanya
Kay York
Artist
Robert Isenberg
Naval Officer
Tom Hatten
Coin Dealer
Jonathan Hole
Songs Featured in Easy Come, Easy Go
- Easy Come, Easy Go
- The Love Machine
- Yoga Is as Yoga Does
- You Gotta Stop
- Sing, You Children
- I’ll Take Love
Credits for Easy Come, Easy Go
- Paramount Pictures
- Produced by Hal B. Wallis
- Directed by John Rich
- Screenplay by Allan Weiss and Anthony Lawrence
- Photographed in Technicolor by William Margulies
- Music by Joseph J. Lilley
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Choreographed by David Winters
- Released March 22, 1967
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Double Trouble
Taking advantage of the latest craze for discotheque dancingand the popularity of spy movies during the mid-1960s, the producers of DoubleTrouble combined the two fads to form the basic plot of this mediocre Elvis Presleymusical. Elvis walks through the role of Guy Lambert, a pop singer who becomesinvolved with intrigue while playing the discotheque scene inGuy’s problems beginwhen he meets heiress Jill Conway, played by young Annette Day, who has a crushon the singer -- much to the chagrin of her guardian. Jill leads Guy throughnumerous adventures involving spies, counterspies, jewel thieves, andharebrained detectives. The latter, played by the zany Wiere Brothers, providethe film’s comic relief. Eventually, Jill succeeds in casting her spell overGuy, and the two marry.
Elvis’s costar, young Annette Day, was still a teenager at the time of production.
One of the youngest actresses to ever costar with Elvis,English ingenue Annette Day was just 18 years old when she acted in DoubleTrouble . Day was discovered in typical
Months later, whenBernard was casting for the film, he remembered the perky girl and called onher to ask the fateful question, "Do you want to be an actress?" After a scriptreading in
Character
Actor
Guy Lambert
Elvis Presley
Jill Conway
AnnetteDayGerald Waverly
JohnWilliamsClaire Dunham
YvonneRomainHarry, a Belgian Detective
HarryWiereHerbert, a Belgian Detective
HerbertWiereSylvester, a Belgian Detective
Sylvester WiereArchie Brown
ChipsRaffertyArthur Babcock
NormanRossingtonGeorgie
Monty LandisMorley
Michael MurphyInspector De Groot
John AldersonCaptain Roach
MauriceMarsacMate
Walter BurkeTwins at London Nightclub
Marilyn and MelodyKeymerBit
GeorgeKlein
Songs Featured in Double Trouble
- Double Trouble
- Baby, If You’ll Give Me All Your Love
- Could I Fall in Love
- Long Legged Girl (with the Short Dress On)
- City by Night
- Old MacDonald
- I Love Only One Girl
- There Is So Much of the World to See
Credits for Double Trouble
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Judd Bernard and Irwin Winkler
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Jo Heims
- Based on a story by Marc Brandel
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Daniel L. Fapp
- Music by Jeff Alexander
- Released
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Clambake
Clambake was originally titled
Too Big for Texas .
Bill Bixby costars as James J. Jamison III, a wealthy playboy whohas won the
Behind the Scenes of Clambake
Clambake was plagued by misfortune and chaos even beforeshooting started, and much of it was due to Elvis’ total disinterest in doingthe film. Depressed at being forced to make another zany musical comedy, Elvisexperienced a major weight gain. United Artists demanded he take off the extrapoundage. On the first day of scheduled shooting, Elvis slipped on his bathroomfloor and hit his head.
After a private conference with the Colonel, the doctordeclared that Elvis had suffered a concussion and could not work. Shooting wasdelayed for more than two weeks. Bored with his films, Elvis and the
Character
Actor
Scott HeywardElvis Presley
Dianne CarterShelleyFabaresTom WilsonWillHutchinsJames J. Jamison IIIBillBixbyDuster HeywardJamesGregorySam
Songs Featured in Clambake
- Clambake
- Who Needs Money
- A House That Has Everything
- Confidence
- You Don’t Know Me
- Hey, Hey, Hey
- The Girl I Never Loved
Credits for Clambake
- United Artists
- Produced by
- Directed by Arthur H. Nadel
- Screenplay by Arthur Browne, Jr.
- Photographed in Technicolor and Techniscope by WilliamMargulies
- Music by Jeff Alexander
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Stay Away, Joe
Elvis Presley played a Native American for the second timein his career in the musical comedy Stay Away, Joe , based on a best-sellingbook by Dan Cushman. This time, however, instead of being a relevant commentaryon prejudice -- as was the superior Flaming Star -- the film stereotypesAmerican Indians as shiftless and irresponsible.
Elvis stars as rodeo rider JoeLightcloud, a Navajo whose family still lives on the reservation. Joe persuadeshis congressman to give him 20 heifers and a prize bull so he and his father,played by Burgess Meredith, can prove that the Navajos can successfully raisecattle on the reservation. If their experiment is successful, then thegovernment will help all the Navajo people. But Joe’s buddy accidentallybarbecues the prize bull, while Joe sells the heifers to buy plumbing and otherhome improvements for his stepmother, portrayed by Katy Jurado. Former leadinglady Joan Blondell appears as tavern owner Glenda Callahan, whose daughter,played by Quentin Dean, can’t seem to stay away from the girl-chasing Joe.
Elvis and Quentin Dean in Stay Away, Joe .
Behind the Scenes of Stay Away, Joe
Stay Away, Joe provides another example of a Presley vehiclebolstered by a supporting cast of talented veterans. One of these veterans wasKaty Jurado, who had built her career around playing sensuous exotic leads orjuicy supporting roles. Her role as Elvis’ stepmother in Stay Away, Joe represented her first major appearance in a comedy.
Jurado brought a great dealmore to the character of Annie Lightcloud than the producers had requested. Thededicated actress gained over 20 pounds to make her appearance more believable.Just prior to shooting, Jurado broke some bones in her foot. Unbeknown to theproducer or director, she removed the cast before clearing it with her doctor.Consequently, her character walked with a limp. When asked, Jurado declaredthat the limp was part of her characterization. No one questioned her about it!
Character
Actor
Joe Lightcloud
Elvis Presley
Charlie LightcloudBurgessMeredithGlenda CallahanJoanBlondellAnnie LightcloudKatyJuradoGrandpa (Chief Lightcloud)ThomasGomezHy SlagerHenryJonesBronc HovertyL.Q.JonesMamie CallahanQuentinDeanMrs. HawkinsAnneSeymourCongressman MorrisseyDouglasHendersonLorne HawkinsAngusDuncanFrank HawkMichael LaneMary LightcloudSusanTrustmanHike BowersWarrenVandersBull ShortgunBuckKartalianConnie ShortgunMaurishkaMarlene Standing RattleCaitlinWylesBillie Jo HumpMaryaChristenCar SalesmanDickWilsonWorkmanJoeEsposito
Songs Featured in Stay Away, Joe
- Stay Away
- Stay Away, Joe
- Dominick
- All I Needed Was the Rain
Credits for Stay Away, Joe
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Douglas Lawrence
- Directed by Peter Tewksbury
- Screenplay by Michael A. Hoey
- Based on the novel by Dan Cushman
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Fred Koenekamp
- Music by Jack Marshall
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released
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Speedway
Photo of Elvis Presley during the
filming of Speedway .
Sinatra costars as IRSagent Susan Jacks, while Bixby plays his bumbling manager, Kenny Donford. Susanattempts to put Steve on a budget that will allow him to pay off the governmentin installments. Steve tries to soften the all-business agent with romance andmusic, but she thinks him frivolous and irresponsible. But her tune changeswhen she realizes that Steve’s latest charity case is a former stock-car driverwith five daughters who has fallen on hard times. Eventually Susan is able tokeep Steve on a budget, while Steve is able to keep Susan on his arm.
Behind the Scenes of
Nancy Sinatra’s friendship with Elvis dated back to 1960when she met him at the airport upon his return from
Elvis and Nancy did not work together again until 1967when they began shooting Speedway . Elvis had married Priscilla Beaulieu a fewweeks earlier, but rumors began to fly that he and Nancy were having arelationship. Fanzines had a field day with the rumors. "Will Nancy SinatraSteal Elvis from Priscilla?" and "How Can Elvis Resist his Sexy Costar?" blaredthe headlines. Testament to their friendship is indicated by the inclusion of Nancy’ssong, "Your Groovy Self" on the Speedway soundtrack, marking the only time asolo by another singer appeared on a regular Presley album.
Character
Actor
Steve GraysonElvis Presley
Susan JacksNancy Sinatra
Kenny Donford
BillBixbyR.W. Hepworth
GaleGordonAbel Esterlake
WilliamSchallertEllie Esterlake
VictoriaMeyerinkPaul Dado
RossHagenBirdie Kebner
CarlBallantineJuan Medala
PonciePonceThe Cook
HarryHickoxMiss Charlotte Speedway
MissBeverly Hills (Mary Ann Ashman)Debbie Esterlake
MicheleNewmanCarrie Esterlake
CourtneyBrownBillie Esterlake
DanaBrownAnnie Esterlake
PattiJean KeithJanitor at the Coffee Shop
Burt Mustin
Guitarist
Charlie Hodge
Stock-Car Racers
RichardPetty, Buddy Baker, Cale Yarborough, Dick Hutcherson, Tiny Lund. G.C. Spencer,Roy Mayne
Songs Featured in Speedway
- Speedway
- Let Yourself Go
- Your Time Hasn’t Come Yet, Baby
- He’s Your Uncle, Not Your Dad
- Who Are You? (Who Am I?)
- There Ain’t Nothing Like a Song
- Your Groovy Self (sung by Sinatra’s character)
Credits for Speedway
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Douglas Laurence
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Phillip Shuken
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by JosephRuttenberg
- Music by Jeff Alexander
- Vocal accompaniment by The Jordanaires
- Released June 12, 1968
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Live a Little, Love a Little
In an attempt to keep up with the changing times, theproducers of Live a Little, Love a Little created a slightly different ElvisPresley film. Live a Little, Love a Little featured a franker approach to sexthan previous Elvis comedies. It also made use of kookier characters who weredevoid of the sentimentality of his earlier films, and it included apsychedelic-type production number called "Edge of Reality."Elvis stars asphotographer Greg Nolan, who earns his living by working for two very distinctclients. Mike Landsdown, played by Don Porter, owns and operates Classic CatMagazine, a girlie publication that features titillating photos. Louis Penlow,played by Rudy Vallee, owns a tasteful advertising agency that prides itself onits classy photography. Neither client knows Greg is working for the other.When Greg is not hopping back and forth between photo assignments, he is tryingto get freewheeling and free-loving Bernice, played by Michele Carey, out ofhis hair.
Although Michele Carey and Elvis share a bed, it’s all kept innocent
with a bed divider.
Elvis’ management team, as well as the producers at MGM,were aware that the singer’s image had not kept pace with the fast-changing1960s. Producer Hal Wallis had chosen not to renew Elvis’ contract when itexpired in 1967 because, as Wallis noted, "It’s not so much that Elvis ischanging, but that the times are changing. There’s just not the market for theno-plot musicals that there once was."
Billed as a comedy rather than a musicalcomedy, Live a Little was fashioned after the hip sex farces of the 1960s, suchas The Swinger and A Guide for the Married
Character
Actor
Greg NolanElvis Presley
Bernice
Michele CareyMike Landsdown
DonPorterLouis Penlow
RudyValleeHarry
Dick SargentMilkman
SterlingHollowayEllen
CelesteYarnallDelivery Boy
EddieHodgesRobbie's Mother
JoanShawleeMiss Selfridge
MaryGroverReceptionist
EmilyBanksArt Director
MichaelKeller1st Secretary
MerriAshley2nd Secretary
PhyllisDavisPerfume Model
UrsulaMenzelRobbie
John HegnerSally, the Mermaid Model
SusanHenningNewspaper Employees
RedWest, Sonny West
Songs Featured in Live a Little, Love a Little
- Wonderful World
- Edge of Reality
- A Little Less Conversation
- Almost in Love
Credits for Live a Little, Love a Little
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Douglas Laurence
- Directed by Norman Taurog
- Screenplay by Michael A. Hoey and Dan Greenburg
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Fred Koenekamp
- Music by Billy Strange
- Choreography by Jack Regas and Jack Baker
- Released October 23, 1968
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Charro!
Sporting a beard and a tough demeanor, Elvis Presley starsas Jess Wade in Charro! an offbeat western that features no musical numbers.The minimal storyline finds Wade, a reformed badman, pitted against the membersof his old gang. The gang is now led by Vince Hackett, played by characteractor Victor French, who takes delight in terrorizing a small Mexican town.Thegang has stolen from the town a gold-plated cannon that was used by EmperorMaximilian in his ill-fated fight against popular Mexican leader Benito Juarez.The gang’s motive is to force a ransom from the town for the cannon, but thegang also uses the cannon to hold the townspeople at bay. Only Wade can savethe people from his former gang. European star Ina Balin costars as TracyWinters, a dance hall hostess in love with Wade.
Advertising emphasized that Charro!
represented a radical departure for Elvis.
With its gritty look, violent antihero, and cynical point ofview, Charro! was obviously patterned after the grim Italian westerns of the1960s. Elvis’ character, Jess Wade, is costumed similarly to Clint Eastwood’snotorious "Man with No Name" from Sergio Leone’s Italian westerns.
Both wore ascruffy beard and dust-covered western garb, and both kept a well-worn cigar intheir mouths. The music in Charro! was scored by Hugo
At the time, much was made about the absence of songs in thefilm, as though that fact proved Charro! was a serious effort. Advertisementsfor the film declared Charro! featured "a different kind of role...adifferent kind of man." Elvis granted more interviews and generated morepublicity for Charro! than he had for any film in a long time. One interviewquoted him as saying, "Charro! is the first movie I ever made without singing asong. I play a gunfighter, and I just couldn’t see a singing gunfighter."Eventually, Elvis did agree to sing the title tune, but there are no songswithin the body of the film.
Charro! was filmed in the late summer of 1968 after Elvis’comeback special had been shot for television, though the special would not airuntil December. Elvis seemed to have taken stock of his career that year:Herecorded music that was not merely fodder for soundtrack albums, and he starredin a prestigious television special. Perhaps Elvis was hoping to upgrade hisacting career as well by appearing in a completely different type of film.Unfortunately, the film was a dismal critical failure; much of the blame wasplaced at the feet of director Charles Marquis Warren.
Warren had been a writer, director, and producer for severalwestern television series during the 1960s. Though he had not worked in the cinemasince the 1950s, he chose to produce, direct, and write the screenplay for Charro!
Elvis seems to have gotten along well with Warren despite anincident that occurred on the set. One morning, Elvis was practicing his quickdraw for an upcoming scene. Not realizing one of the guns was loaded withblanks, Elvis accidentally fired a gun into Warren’s face at a range of oneyard.
Luckily, the gun had only a quarter-load blank charge, and the directorreceived only minor powder burns and cracked glasses. After receiving first aidon the set, Warren returned to direct that day. According to witnesses, Elviswas much more upset than Warren about the accident, so Warren began joking withhim. "Well, at least now I know what you think of your director," he kidded.
Fewer shenanigans involving Elvis and his buddy-bodyguardswere reported from the set of Charro! than was typical for a Presley film. Manyof the film’s crew and some members of the Memphis Mafia grew beards to matchElvis’ while the film was in production. Even Colonel Parker grew a beard, buthe chose to shave his when he returned home to his wife, Marie.
Cast of Charro!Character
Actor
Jess WadeElvis Presley
Tracy Winters
InaBalinVince Hackett
VictorFrenchMarcie
Lynn KelloggSara Ramsey
BarbaraWerleBilly Roy Hackett
SolomonSturgesOpie Keetch
PaulBrinegarGunner
James SikkingHeff
HarryLandersLieutenant Rivera
TonyYoungSheriff Dan Ramsey
JamesAlmanzarMody
Charles H.GrayLige
RoddRedwingMartin Tilford
GarryWalbergGabe
Duane GreyHenry Carter
J.Edward McKinleyJerome Selby
JohnPickardWill Joslyn
RobertLusterChrista
Christa LangMexican Peon
CharlieHodge
Songs Featured in Charro!
- Charro
Credits for Charro!
- National General Pictures
- Produced by Harry Caplan and Charles Marquis Warren
- Directed by Charles Marquis Warren
- Screenplay by Charles Marquis Warren
- Based on a story by Frederic Louis Fox
- Photographed in Technicolor and Panavision by EllsworthFredericks
- Music by Hugo Montenegro
- Released March 13, 1969
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The Trouble With Girls
An odd mixture of music, comedy, and melodrama, The Trouble with Girls is unique for an Elvis Presley picture because Elvis is only on screen for about a third of the film. Elvis stars as Walter Hale, the manager of a traveling chautauqua. A chautauqua is a school that provides education combined with entertainment. Walter is beset with a number of problems as his show arrives in town for one week.
About 450 extras were used alongside Elvis Presley in The Trouble
With Girls ' parade scenes, including 100 children.
He worries that he might have to give the mayor's untalented daughter the lead in the children's pageant to stay in the mayor's good graces. He must contend with his assistant, played by Marlyn Mason, who is constantly harping about the union rights of his employees. Finally, someone murders the local druggist, and a member of the chautauqua is accused. These loose ends are tied together during the final show, when Walter cannily reveals the killer's identity and wins the heart of his pretty assistant.
Behind the Scenes of The Trouble With Girls
The Trouble with Girls had a long history of trying to reach the screen. In June 1959, trade magazines announced that Don Mankiewicz was set to write a sceenplay based on an unpublished story by Mauri Grashin, Day Keene, and Dwight Babcock. The film was tentatively titled Chautauqua . In December 1960, MGM announced that Glenn Ford was slated to star in Chautauqua with Elvis Presley, Hope Lange, and Arthur O'Connell. Valentine Davies was scheduled to adapt the story.
The following year, only Elvis remained in the original cast, and William Wister Haines was doing the adaptation of the story, which Keene and Babcock had recently published as a novel. By 1964, Dick Van Dyke was announced as the star of Chautauqua . Many writers later, the property was sold to Columbia Pictures. Van Dyke was still scheduled to be the star, but the title had been changed to Big America . In April 1968, the property was resold to MGM, where it was adapted as an Elvis Presley vehicle by Arnold and Lois Peyser.
Cast of The Trouble With Girls
Character Actor
Walter Hale
Elvis Presley
Charlene
Marlyn Mason
Betty
Nicole Jaffe
Nita Bix
Sheree North
Johnny
Edward Andrews
Mr. Drewcolt
John Carradine
Mr. Jonson (Mr. Morality)
Vincent Price
Carol Bix
Anissa Jones
Maude
Joyce Van Patten
Willy
Pepe Brown
Harrison Wilby
Dabney Coleman
Mayor Gilchrist
Bill Zuckert
Mr. Perper
Pitt Herbert
Boy with Yale Sweater
Kevin O'Neal
Boy with Princeton Sweater
John Rubenstein
Boy with Rutgers Sweater
Frank Welker
Boy with Amherst Sweater
Chuck Briles
Deputy Sheriff
Jerry Schilling
Gambler
Joe Esposito
Vocal Group
The Jordanaires
Songs Featured in The Trouble With Girls
- Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
- The Whiffenpoof Song
- Violet (Flower of NYU)
- Clean Up Your Own Backyard
- Sign of the Zodiac
- Almost
Credits for The Trouble With Girls
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Lester Welch
- Directed by Peter Tewksbury
- Screenplay by Arnold and Lois Peyser
- Based on a story by Mauri Grashin, Day Keene, and Dwight Babcock
- Based on a novel by Day Keene and Dwight Babcock
- Photographed in Metrocolor and Panavision by Jacques Marquette
- Music by Billy Strange
- Released September 3, 1969
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Change of Habit
Ending his days in
Dr. Carpenter heads a clinic in a ghetto area of a major metropolis. He is surprised to be offered assistance by three women. Unknown to him, the three are nuns in street clothing who want to aid the community but are afraid the local residents might be reluctant to seek help if their true identities were known.
Dr. Carpenter falls in love with Sister Michelle Gallagher, played by wholesome Mary Tyler Moore, but Sister Michelle’s true vocation remains unknown to Dr. Carpenter. Sister Michelle also has feelings for the doctor, but she is reluctant to leave the order. The film concludes with Sister Michelle entering a church to pray for guidance to make her choice -- the church or Dr. Carpenter.
Elvis Presley and Mary Tyler Moore during the filming of Change of Habit.
Change of Habit was very loosely based on the story of Sister Mary Olivia Gibson, who worked with children afflicted with speech handicaps. Sister Mary Olivia headed the speech clinic at
How much of her story was retained in the script was pondered by many critics in their reviews, but they all agreed that the material provided Elvis with a welcome change of pace. That it was too little too late was apparent by Elvis’ lack of interest in pursuing a film career. He had let his film contracts expire, and Change of Habit was his last commitment. He was eagerly awaiting his freedom so that he could return to live performances.
Character
Actor
Dr. John CarpenterElvis Presley
Sister Michelle GallagherMary Tyler MooreSister Irene HawkinsBarbara McNairSister Barbara Bennett
Jane ElliotMother Joseph
Leora DanaLieutenant Moretti
Edward AsnerThe Banker
Robert EmhardtFather Gibbons
Regis ToomeyRose
Doro MerandeLily
Ruth McDevittBishop Finley
Richard CarlsonJulio Hernandez
Nefti MilletDesiree
Laura FigueroaAmanda Parker
Lorena KirkMiss Parker
Virginia VincentColom
David RenardHawk
Ji-Tu CumbukaRobbie
Bill Elliott1st Young Man
Mario Aniov2nd Young Man
A
Songs Featured in Change of Habit
- Change of Habit
- Rubberneckin’
- Have a Happy
- Let Us Pray
Credits for Change of Habit
- Universal Pictures
- Produced by Joe Connelly
- Directed by William Graham
- Screenplay by James Lee, S.S. Schweitzer, and Eric Bercovici
- Based on a story by John Joseph and Richard Morris
- Photographed in Technicolor by Russell Metty
- Music by William Goldenberg
- Released
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Elvis Concerts
Here are some of Elvis Presley's most memorable concert films.
Elvis -- That’s the Way It Is
Rather than a narrative feature, Elvis Presley’s 32nd film, Elvis -- That's the Way It Is , is a documentary chronicling his 1970 summer appearance at the International Hotel in
The MGM cameras not only recorded the rehearsals but also opening night, several performances throughout the engagement, and one show at Veterans Memorial Coliseum in
Elvis Presley during rehearsals as seen in Elvis -- That's the Way It Is .
According to the personal accounts of a couple of Elvis’ buddy-bodyguards, Elvis received a death threat during this engagement at the International in the summer of 1970. A security guard at the hotel was notified on August 26 that Elvis would be kidnapped sometime that night.
Feeling protected by extra security, Elvis chose to perform that night as usual. The next day, Colonel Parker’s office received a similar warning over the phone. Again, Elvis performed that night as usual. On August 28, the wife of Joe Esposito, who was Elvis’s foreman, received another threatening phone call at her home in
With armed bodyguards in the wings, and, according to some, a couple of guns tucked into his costume, Elvis honored that old show business tradition that declares the show must go on. The person or persons responsible for the odious threats were never apprehended.
Elvis On Tour
Elvis wouldn't drop his guard, even
backstage, during filming of
Elvis On Tour .
Much of the tour centered in the South. In addition to the concert footage of Elvis, the film attempted to reveal the real Elvis Presley backstage and off-guard. A camera followed the singer and his entourage, while Elvis was asked to comment on such topics as his music and his childhood. Elvis on Tour did not present the real Elvis, it only added to the myth that surrounded him.
Despite the filmmakers’ intentions, Elvis would drop no veils. In lieu of a revealing portrait, the filmmakers succeeded in capturing the hectic pace of Elvis’ tour through a montage sequence of cities visited during the tour. A collection of clips from his movies in which Elvis kisses a number of his costars adds a touch of humor.
Behind the Scenes of Elvis On Tour
Costing $600,000 to produce (not including Elvis’ fee of $1 million), Elvis on Tour recouped its production costs after three days in the theaters. Documentaries are rarely major box-office draws, but this film was a financial success. Critically acclaimed as well, Elvis on Tour won a Golden Globe as the Best Documentary of 1972. Elvis himself kept track of the awards ceremony the evening the Golden Globes were passed out, and he shouted with pride when the film won.
Much of the creative success of the film was due to its effective editing style, which relied on a split-screen technique to convey the excitement of Elvis in concert. Multiple images of Elvis performing were shown simultaneously on the screen. The series of scenes from Elvis’ movies plus the succession of clips of the different cities visited on the tour also depended on precise editing for its visual impact. In charge of these montage sequences was a young filmmaker named Martin Scorsese.
Elvis in Elvis -- That's the Way It Is .
- Mystery Train/Tiger Man
- Words
- The Next Step Is Love
- Polk Salad Annie
- Crying Time
- That’s All Right (Mama)
- Little Sister
- What’d I Say
- Stranger in the Crowd
- How the Web Was Woven
- I Just Can’t Help Believin’
- You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me
- Bridge Over Troubled Water
- You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’
- Mary in the Morning
- I’ve Lost You
- Patch It Up
- Love Me Tender
- Sweet Caroline
- Get Back
- Heartbreak Hotel
- One Night
- Blue Suede Shoes
- All Shook Up
- Suspicious Minds
- Can’t Help Falling in Love
Famous Elvis image from Elvis On Tour.
Songs Featured in Elvis On Tour
- Johnny B. Goode
- See See Rider
- Polk Salad Annie
- Separate Ways
- Proud Mary
- Never Been to
- Burning Love
- That’s All Right (Mama)
- Lead Me, Guide Me
- Bosom of Abraham
- Love Me Tender
- Until It’s Time for You to Go
- Suspicious Minds
- I, John
- Bridge Over Troubled Water
- Funny How Time Slips Away
- An American Trilogy
- Mystery Train
- I Got a Woman/Amen
- A Big Hunk o’ Love
- You Gave Me a Mountain
- Lawdy Miss Clawdy
- Can’t Help Falling in Love
- Memories
- Lighthouse (sung by J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet)
- Sweet Sweet Spirit (sung by J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet)
Credits for Elvis -- That's the Way It Is
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced by Herbert F. Soklow
- Directed by Denis Sanders
- Photographed by Lucien Ballard
- Edited by Henry Berman
- Elvis’ wardrobe by Bill Belew
- Musicians with Elvis:James Burton, Glen Hardin, Charlie Hodge, Jerry Scheff, Ronnie Tutt, and John Wilkinson
- Orchestra conducted by Joe Guercio
Credits for Elvis On Tour
- Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
- Produced and directed by Pierre Adidge and Robert Abel
- Photographed by Robert Thomas
- Musicians with Elvis:James Burton, Charlie Hodge, Ronnie Tutt, Glen Hardin, Jerry Scheff, and John Wilkinson
- Orchestra conducted by Joe Guercio
- Background vocals by Kathy Westmoreland, The Sweet Inspirations, and J.D. Sumner and the Stamps Quartet
- Opening act by Jackie Kahane
- Edited by Ken Zemke
- Montage supervised by Martin Scorsese
- Research by Andrew Solt, Carole Kismaric, and Jack Goelman
- Elvis’ wardrobe by Bill Belew
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