The first hour of “EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” is a compelling argument that Elvis Presley remains the greatest entertainer who ever lived. By the end, the film elevates him to something approaching a deity. Director Baz Luhrmann, known for his maximalist style, claims he created this IMAX documentary for those who never experienced the King live, offering a chance for worship in action. But it feels as though Luhrmann is, in fact, crafting a testament to Elvis’ enduring power, hoping that future generations – perhaps even extraterrestrial ones – will discover this footage and build a culture around the magnetic force of his performances.
This isn’t simply a concert film; it’s a meticulously constructed shrine. Luhrmann returns to the world of Elvis just four years after his 2022 biopic, “Elvis,” starring Austin Butler. While that film attempted a more traditional biographical narrative, it struggled to contain the complexities of Presley’s life and legacy. “EPiC,” however, wisely focuses on what can’t be debated: the sheer, undeniable charisma of Elvis on stage. The film primarily stitches together footage from his iconic Las Vegas residencies in 1970 and 1972, offering a dazzling display of over two dozen songs – including classics like “That’s All Right,” “Burning Love,” and “In the Ghetto” – with a rich soundtrack featuring even more of his repertoire.
The film transports viewers to a dream concert experience, exceeding anything fans could have witnessed in reality. The visual cues of the era – particularly the escalating extravagance of his costumes, marked by increasingly maximalist rhinestones – clearly delineate the 1970 and 1972 performances. Luhrmann subtly frames this resurgence by briefly juxtaposing Elvis’ 1969 comeback show – his first live performance in nine years – with imagery of car crashes and missile attacks, reflecting a cultural moment where his appeal had waned amidst Beatlemania. Reports from that 1969 show noted a surprisingly mature audience, with one 25-year-old attendee admitting to attending out of nostalgia, as reported by Rolling Stone.
“EPiC” captures Elvis at what many consider the peak of his career – a sweet spot before his 1973 divorce from Priscilla Presley, a period after which his personal life and health began to decline. This Elvis is confident, comfortable, and genuinely funny. A particularly charming scene shows him joking about the difficulty of performing his signature moves in a tight jumpsuit, a garment he adopted specifically to avoid wardrobe malfunctions. He playfully alters the lyrics to “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” with a self-deprecating quip about wishing for more hair. The camera work is intimate, focusing on the sweat glistening on his skin under the bright Vegas lights, emphasizing the raw energy of his performance.
The film excels at showcasing Elvis’ magnetic connection with his audience. One striking moment features him targeting a backup singer during “Suspicious Minds,” slowly approaching her with a hypnotic gaze before playfully lunging in her direction, eliciting a delighted jump and giggle. While the band members remain largely unnamed – a slight oversight – the film effectively conveys the feeling of being present at a truly electrifying concert. Even in rehearsal, as noted in the USA Today review, Elvis radiates an infectious energy, gyrating his pelvis with a machine-gun-like intensity.
The audience’s reaction is a key component of the film’s power. A montage of ecstatic fans – from a sobbing young girl clinging to his arm to a glamorous woman in a revealing dress attempting to reach the stage – captures the fervor Elvis inspired. He reciprocates the affection, kissing fans who reach out to him, even wading into the crowd and emerging with his jumpsuit partially torn from the enthusiastic grabs. Luhrmann enhances the emotional impact of songs by intercutting them with personal photographs, such as a poignant image of Elvis’ mother, Gladys, during a performance of “And I Miss Her,” and a touching acknowledgment of Priscilla and Lisa Marie during “Always on My Mind.”
Luhrmann deliberately avoids dwelling on the darker aspects of Elvis’ life, presenting a celebration of his artistry and charisma. Any hint of negativity is stripped away; even when faced with intrusive questions from the press, Elvis responds with a playful jab, like his impromptu rendition of The Beatles’ “Get Back” during a performance of “Little Sister.” This playful dig underscores Luhrmann’s own agenda, subtly asserting Elvis’ enduring influence. As the director demonstrated in “Elvis,” he believes Presley’s talent was underestimated, hampered by the controlling influence of Colonel Parker, his manager, who limited his opportunities and kept him from touring internationally. Luhrmann even scores footage of Parker with the song “The Devil in Disguise,” framing him as an antagonist in the Elvis story.
“EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert” is rated PG-13 for smoking and some language and has a running time of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It is currently in limited release as of February 19, 2026, according to the official film website.
“EPiC” isn’t just a concert film; it’s a passionate declaration of Elvis’ enduring legacy. Luhrmann isn’t simply presenting a performance; he’s building a case for Elvis’ rightful place as a cultural icon. The film leaves viewers with a renewed appreciation for the King’s unparalleled talent and charisma, and a sense that his influence will continue to resonate for generations to approach. As the film’s release coincides with a renewed interest in Elvis’ life and work, spurred by recent portrayals in film and literature, it’s clear that the King’s reign is far from over.
What comes next for the Elvis Presley estate remains to be seen, but the continued interest in his life and music suggests a bright future for his legacy. Share your thoughts on “EPiC” and your favorite Elvis memories in the comments below.
