Baz Luhrmann’s fascination with Elvis Presley continues with ‘s theatrical release of EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, a documentary constructed from newly discovered and restored footage. The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on , and received advanced screenings at Graceland on – Presley’s would-have-been 91st birthday – is already playing in select IMAX theaters since .
EPiC isn’t a traditional biography or concert film, but rather a re-examination of existing performance material. Luhrmann initially unearthed sixty-eight boxes of 35mm and 8mm footage while researching his 2022 biopic, Elvis. This treasure trove, found in salt mines in Kansas within the Warner Bros. Film archives, included outtakes from Elvis: That’s the Way This proves and Elvis on Tour, as well as a particularly significant performance featuring Presley in a “gold jacket” from a 1957 Hawaii concert. The challenge, however, was that the footage was without accompanying sound.
Over the subsequent two years, Luhrmann’s team meticulously restored the visual material and synchronized it with existing audio recordings. The result is a fresh perspective on Presley’s stage presence and charisma, offering fans a new way to experience iconic performances. The film’s release strategy reflects a tiered approach, beginning with IMAX exclusivity before expanding to general theatrical release.
The documentary is being distributed internationally by Universal Pictures, while Neon holds the distribution rights within the United States. This split reflects the global appeal of Presley’s music and persona, and the strategic importance of both major studio reach and independent film distribution networks. The film clocks in at 97 minutes.
Luhrmann’s involvement signals a continued commitment to Presley’s legacy. His 2022 biopic, while generating some controversy, reignited interest in the singer’s life and work. EPiC builds on that momentum, offering a different, more visually focused experience. The choice to focus on concert footage allows Luhrmann to sidestep the biographical complexities that fueled debate around Elvis, and instead concentrate on the raw energy and artistry of Presley’s performances.
The initial positive critical reception suggests EPiC will resonate with both longtime fans and a new generation of audiences. The film’s release timing, coinciding with the anniversary of Presley’s birth and the lead-up to the anniversary of his death, is clearly designed to maximize its cultural impact. The staggered release – first IMAX, then wider theatrical – is a common strategy for event films, building anticipation and encouraging repeat viewings.
The discovery of the original footage itself is a significant event for film preservationists. The fact that it was stored in salt mines speaks to the lengths Warner Bros. Went to protect this valuable historical material. The restoration process, and the subsequent synchronization with audio, represents a considerable technical achievement. It’s a reminder of the importance of archiving and preserving film history for future generations.
While the film is described as a documentary, the involvement of Luhrmann – a director known for his highly stylized and visually arresting work – suggests it will be more than a straightforward presentation of concert footage. His signature aesthetic is likely to be present, enhancing the emotional impact of the performances and creating a truly immersive cinematic experience. The film’s title, EPiC, hints at the scale and ambition of the project.
The film’s international rollout is extensive, with screenings already scheduled across Europe, South America, and Asia. Release dates vary by country, with France and Italy seeing releases in early March and Japan not until mid-May. This staggered approach allows for localized marketing and distribution strategies, maximizing the film’s reach in different territories. The film is currently showing in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Israel, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Serbia & Montenegro, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert represents a unique opportunity for fans to revisit and re-evaluate the legacy of one of the most iconic performers in music history. Luhrmann’s involvement, combined with the discovery of previously unseen footage, promises a compelling and visually stunning cinematic experience. The film’s success will likely depend on its ability to capture the energy and charisma of Presley’s live performances, and to offer a fresh perspective on a well-documented life.
