Elvis: The Comeback Special (2018)

Wow! Such a good movie.

That was an excellent one.

Excellent, Without a doubt!!

Watching it is like watching the spectacle of a class clown at their best: you laugh at their jokes, instigate their defiance, and "ooooh" when they get in trouble.

After a sort of video performance, this television special opens with a short montage of Elvis performing several of his songs. This immediately has the effect of reminding us why Elvis continues to be famous to this day. This continues with song after song that are well loved and/or very enjoyable. Although I'm sure people don't like his music (and they won't be watching anyway) this show is likely to be enjoyed by those who only listen to Elvis when he occasionally comes onto radio 2.The set-up was a bit strange at first as we start with Elvis on a small stage at a low level with a small audience sitting all around him and for me he didn't seem to connect with them at all. This wasn't helped by the fact that, at the start of each song we get a roar of recognition from the crowd but yet looking at the audience all they seem to be doing is politely clapping. This gets less of a problem as the show goes on for several reasons. Firstly the lights get dipped and the stage gets a bit more cluttered with people Secondly Elvis himself starts to have fun and do more than just sing. He jokes with his band and takes the mick out of himself a bit to good effect. This makes it easy to like him and makes him more of a person – which doesn't sound lie much until you think of the mythical status that he seems to hold now, it is fun to see him messing around like a performer.Overall then, those that hate Elvis for the sake of it will not enjoy this however it is a strong enough show to appeal to fans and the casual listener. Aside from some minor issues associated with this being a television production, the music is strong and the performance very good. Watch it to understand what all the fuss was/is about.

Magical, Mystifying and Memorable - These words describe Elvis and the whole Production of what came to be known as 'The King's' Television Comeback. But it was more than just that - it was 'The Comeback' full stop!After a full Seven years without ever straying from within the confines of a movie set to perform for his public, the opportune moment finally arrived and it came crashing in at the top of the heap of a formula that had already began to show slight signs of improving itself. The non-movie songs that Elvis had recorded of recent times such as 'Guitar Man', 'The U.S. Male' and 'Big Boss Man' had already made their dents on the charts worldwide and two of these were to be featured in the TV Special in Burbank. The ballads were much classier as well: 'You Don't Know Me', 'We Call On Him' and 'You'll Never Walk Alone'. Dare I say it, but the movies appeared to be taking a somewhat different direction as well since the amicably-casted "Speedway", for "Live a Little, Love a Little" was the man's first venture into then modern day adult comedy in which he only sings four songs, all of which are total quality recordings especially the upbeat numbers of 'Edge of Reality' and 'A Little Less Conversation' (which was to be re-recorded for the TV Show, and the rest is history!). The next film "Charro!", a western, offered another adult role for a bearded Elvis who sings only the title song over the opening credits and the emphasis once more was on the man's acting ability. Then on June 22nd, 1968 the tape machine was switched on in the recording studios and the camera's got ready to roll like never before in the Burbank soundstages and witnessed Black Leather, Gold Lame, Denim, Neckerchieves, Wrist-bands, Guitars, Music, Laughter, Acting and 'If I Can Dream'.....It wasn't the 1950's anymore but it was certainly the next best thing. All these things were rolled into this one handsome, tanned, side-burned, slim, tall and nervous human being who was Rock's first iconic legend....ELVIS....and he was back!....

I was a little too young to appreciate this show when it was first broadcast, and fortunately had a chance to rent it about five years ago. Elvis really was a fine entertainer and if you are wondering what the bid deal was, or why he was so popular, this show would be a good way to find out. It really rocks. Belongs on DVD, with the works!

This was without a doubt Elvis's best moment. Bar none. After years of bad movies and bad songs to boot, Elvis takes control in this TV Special. It immediately puts Elvis back on top where he belonged and his competion below his feet where they belonged. Elvis was way too talented as a singer and an actor to do those bad roles and songs. Those films and songs were beneath his dignity. It is nice to see the real Elvis again. From beginning to end this show has you glued to the television set. Five Stars