Elvis

Executive Summary




Pass/Consider/Recommend/Highly Recommend

Consider

Explanation: The screenplay for 'Elvis' is a sprawling and ambitious biopic with strong prose, complex characters, and insightful cultural commentary. However, it suffers from pacing issues, underdeveloped aspects of Elvis' emotional journey, and some repetitive scenes. Further development is needed to tighten the narrative, deepen character exploration, and provide a more satisfying resolution.

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Promo


USP: This script offers a fresh and authentic portrayal of Elvis Presley's life and career, blending nostalgia, emotionality, and historical accuracy. With innovative storytelling techniques, distinctive characters, and unique themes, it explores the complex relationship between Elvis and his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker, as well as the racial dynamics and societal challenges of the 1950s music industry. The screenplay delves into the internal struggles of Elvis and his family, showcasing his rise to fame, personal relationships, and the pressures of stardom. This compelling storytelling will captivate audiences, offering a unique perspective on the legendary figure of Elvis Presley.
Overview

Genres: Drama, Musical, Biographical, Biography, Biopic, Music, Thriller

Setting: 1950s to 1997, Various locations including Memphis, Tennessee, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Holland

Overview: The screenplay demonstrates strong character development, engaging dialogue, and thematic depth, offering a fresh and compelling perspective on Elvis Presley's life. While it excels in unpredictability, there are opportunities to refine emotional pacing and character relationships for a more impactful narrative.

Themes: Rise to Fame and Legacy, Music and Performance, Business and Management, Identity and Self-Discovery, Race and Culture

Conflict and Stakes: The primary conflict is between Elvis and Colonel Tom Parker, as Elvis tries to break free from their contract and Colonel tries to keep him under his control. The stakes are Elvis's career, financial stability, and personal well-being. Other conflicts include Elvis's struggle with addiction, his distant relationship with Priscilla, and his fear of being forgotten.

Overall Mood: Emotional and nostalgic, with moments of tension and conflict

Mood/Tone at Key Scenes:

Standout Features:

  • Unique Hook: Exploring the complex relationship between Elvis and his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker.
  • Plot Twist : Revealing Colonel Tom Parker's true identity and the impact it has on Elvis's career and personal life.
  • Distinctive Setting : Recreating the iconic locations and time periods of Elvis's rise to fame and subsequent struggles.
  • Innovative Idea : Exploring the darker side of fame and the music industry, and the impact it has on Elvis's personal relationships and well-being.

Comparable Scripts:

  • Walk the Line (2005)
  • Ray (2004)
  • Straight Outta Compton (2015)
  • The Buddy Holly Story (1978)
  • Cadillac Records (2008)
  • La Bamba (1987)
  • Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
  • Great Balls of Fire! (1989)
  • Jailhouse Rock (1957)
  • Viva Las Vegas (1964)
Market Analysis

Budget Estimate:$50-70 million

Target Audience Demographics: Adults aged 25-54, fans of biographical dramas and music-themed movies

Marketability: The story of Elvis Presley's rise to fame and subsequent struggles is a proven draw for audiences, and the movie's focus on his complex relationship with Colonel Tom Parker adds a unique twist. The movie also features a strong soundtrack and a talented cast, which should generate buzz and attract a wide audience.

The movie explores the darker side of fame and the music industry, which may appeal to fans of gritty biographical dramas. The focus on Elvis's personal relationships and struggles with addiction also adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling watch for audiences interested in more than just the music.

The movie features a talented cast, including a strong lead performance by an actor playing Elvis Presley. The soundtrack is also a major selling point, featuring many of Elvis's classic hits. The movie's marketing campaign will likely emphasize these elements, making it a must-see for fans of Elvis and classic rock and roll.

Profit Potential: High, due to strong appeal to a wide adult audience and potential for award nominations

Scene Level Percentiles
Script Level Percentiles
Writer's Voice

Summary:The writer's voice is characterized by its blend of nostalgia, emotionality, and authenticity, which is consistently manifested throughout the screenplay.

Best representation: Scene 16 - Promises and Disobedience: The Career of Elvis Presley. Scene 16 effectively captures the writer's unique voice through its bold dialogue, intense emotions, and thematic exploration of identity and rebellion. The sharp and impactful language, coupled with the compelling performances of the actors, brings depth to the characters and drives the narrative forward.

Memorable Lines:

  • Colonel Tom Parker: I know what you're thinking... who the hell is this Colonel fellow? (Scene 1)
  • Gladys: The Lord gave us music to bring people together. We’re like a family, and family’s the most important thing of all. (Scene 3)
  • Elvis: I'd rather be dead, little girl... than to see you with another man. (Scene 4)
  • Colonel: To be truly great requires truly great sacrifices. (Scene 8)
  • Elvis: I'm just trying to take care of my babies, that’s all I ever cared about! (Scene 5)
  • Senator Eastland: The obscenity and vulgarity of this rock and roll music is obviously a means by which the white man and his children can be driven to the level of the Negro! (Scene 11)
  • Elvis: I'm so tired of playing Elvis Presley. (Scene 21)
  • Colonel: The only thing that matters is that that man... gets on that stage tonight! (Scene 37)
  • Elvis: God speed your love... to me! (Scene 42)

Writing Style:

The writing style across the screenplay is characterized by sharp dialogue, intense emotional conflict, and complex character dynamics. The scenes display a blend of dramatic tension, non-linear storytelling, and unique character perspectives.

Style Similarities:

  • Aaron Sorkin
  • Quentin Tarantino
  • Cameron Crowe
Other Similarities: The screenplay also incorporates elements from other notable writers such as Richard Linklater, Nora Ephron, and Paul Schrader, further enriching the narrative with their unique perspectives on power dynamics, personal growth, and moral dilemmas.
Story Shape