Elvis Presley's 7 Best Movie Roles
Though Elvis Presley is best remembered for his impact on music, the King of Rock 'n' Roll also boasted a prolific Hollywood film career and starred in over 30 movies during his time in the spotlight. Initially inspired by the serious acting of James Dean and Marlon Brando, Presley eventually found romantic musicals to be his niche, with soundtracks that feature some of his most famous songs. On the late singer's birthday, L'OFFICIEL looks back at Presley's own best movies.
In this 1957 film, Presley plays Vince Everett, a man who realizes his musical abilities as he serves time in prison for manslaughter, only to find his way to stardom after he's released. The performer was at the height of his career when the movie was released, and its title song became an instant classic.
Presley appears as a rebellious New Orleans teen, 19-year-old Danny Fisher, who kickstars a his singing career by performing at a local club to support himself and his unemployed father. The role was originally meant for James Dean, but Presley's performance was celebrated for bringing the character to life.
In this 1960 Western drama, Presley plays Pacer Burton, the son of a white farmer and Native American mother who finds himself caught between the two worlds of his identities (at the time, it was not uncommon for white actors to be cast in ethnic roles). The screenplay did not originally include any songs, but after Presley was cast, one singing scene was added.
In what's considered Presley's last foray in serious roles, Presley stars as Glenn Tyler, a teen looking to put his troubled past behind him to pursue writing.
In this musical film responsible for tracks like "Can't Help Falling in Love," Presley pulls from his own experience in the U.S. Army to play Chadwick Gates, who heads back home to his girlfriend and family in Hawaii after being released from the military.
Presley plays a budding boxer, Walter Gulick, in this 1962 romantic comedy. His gym owner, Willy Grogan, sees professional potential in Walter, who's more interested in Willy's younger sister, Rose.
Offering another musical hit, Viva Las Vegas' title track remains an American favorite. In the movie, Presley stars opposite Ann-Marget as Lucky Jackson, a racecar driver who finds himself stuck in Las Vegas as he tries to save up for a new car motor.
