The Movies

Elvis made 33 movies from 1956 until 1972. His scripted films ended with 'Change Of Habit' in 1969. He made two documentaries, "That's The Way It Is," 1970 and "Elvis On Tour," 1972.

At one point, he was Hollywood's highest paid actor! It wasn't unusual for the companies to pay Elvis 1 million dollars per movie.

Some of the movies are available on DVD, with restored sound and picture quality.

Although sometimes slated for their laid-back style and non-demanding acting, the Elvis films are classics in their own right. I remember well, during the school holidays when the Elvis films were being shown.  

Here's a selection of the movies.

Elvis relaxing during takes, on the film set.

Change Of Habit was Elvis' last ever scripted film, as he returned to live performances. A very good movie, with some great acting from Elvis.

It was good to see Elvis in a more 'adult' movie and away from comedy scripts.

Elvis styled his hair differently for the film.

Allied Artists, who made the film, were in deep financial trouble. They came to an agreement with the Colonel. Elvis took a cut in his salary and sure enough, the movie saved the studio.

Due to the financial problems, the studio used previously recorded Elvis songs for the soundtrack. It wasn't a bad thing! They used some quality studio tracks.

Sorry, but I'm going to let you in on a secret... Elvis DID NOT do the diving from the cliff, in Fun In Acapulco!

Some movie magic was employed (a picture of a cliff, in this case!) and hey presto! Elvis cliff-diver!

I think someone forgot to ask Elvis to take his shoes off!

Elvis in bed, with Actress, Michelle Carey, who played Bernice. Elvis played the part of photographer, Greg Nolan.

Interesting to note, it was the only film which showed Elvis in bed with his co-star. The board saved an 'x'-rating!

Elvis with Ann Margret. They became close during the filming of the movie, and remained friends, until the end.

If you look carefully, you can see the mattresses, placed at the edge, in case either star took a tumble... falling off their bikes I mean!!

Elvis with Marylin Mason, who played Charlene. Elvis played, Walter Hale (not a great name for Elvis!) He's the manager of a travelling Chautauqua, a school that combines education combined with entertainment - don't worry, I had to look up the name too!

A strange film, as Elvis isn't in it for the first half hour (or it seems that way) I don't know what you think, but I would rather watch Elvis than some silly kids and adults hogging the screen. 

A few good songs such as, "Clean Up Your Own Backyard," "Almost," and "Swing Low Sweet Chariot" are in the movie. I would recommend it as Elvis was maturing into a decent actor. It was a shame he wasn't given the scripts to show him at his full potential.