Elvis Presley’s life has been retold many times on screen, each version shaping how new generations remember the King of Rock and Roll. In recent years, Hollywood has released more than one Elvis biopic, sparking praise, criticism, and even family debate.
Some fans celebrate these films for keeping Elvis’ story alive, while others argue that key details are missing or distorted. Now, Elvis’ step-brother David Stanley has weighed in. His reaction shows just how much one Elvis biopic can divide opinion while another earns unexpected respect.
Elvis Biopic Stirs Strong Reactions
Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 Elvis Biopic starred Austin Butler as Elvis and Tom Hanks as Colonel Tom Parker. Audiences loved Butler’s performance, and critics applauded the energy and spectacle. The film became a box office success and even earned awards recognition.
But Stanley disagreed with the glowing reviews. “I was disappointed and ashamed, because they made it about Colonel Parker,” according to The Daily Express. He felt the movie wrongly painted Parker as a villain while making Elvis appear weak. For Stanley, this Elvis Biopic missed the heart of Presley’s story and created a false picture of their partnership.
A Different Take On Priscilla’s Story
Another Elvis biopic took a different approach. Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla, based on Priscilla Presley’s memoir Elvis and Me, shifted focus away from the music to the private life of Elvis and his young wife. Though Lisa Marie Presley objected to the film, Stanley found it more truthful.
“I saw the movie and thought she was right on,” he said. He admitted Elvis sometimes lost his temper, even throwing a chair, but also remembered his apologies and tender side. To Stanley, this biopic captured a balance of flaws and love that many portrayals overlook, making it stand out in an industry full of dramatizations.