Baz Luhrman’s ‘Elvis’ Biopic Adding Rufus Sewell As The King’s Father
Elvis Presleyhas been prominently featured in a number of films, ranging from the horror comedy ofBubba Ho-Tepto the meeting of Elvis and Tricky Dick inElvis & Nixon. But there hasn’t been a definitive biopic about the man who was dubbed the King of Rock and Roll. That’s about to change withMoulin RougedirectorBaz Luhrmantackling the musician’s life, and another name has just been added to the film’s cast.Rufus Sewell(A Knight’s Tale, The Man in the High Castle) has joined theElvisbiopic as The King’s “reserved, soft-spoken” father Vernon Presley.Varietyhas the latest update for theElvisbiopic cast, which already has relatively unknown actorAustin Butlerin the lead role for the film chronicling the rise to fame of the poor kid turned music sensation. The story is said to follow Elvis and his “elevation to a level of stardom and celebrity matched only by The Beatles, set against an evolving cultural landscape and loss of innocence in America.”
As for Rufus Sewell’s role in the movie, it should be a significant one. Vernon Presley was a proud supporter of his son, and in addition to accompanying Elvis on tour, he would also manage his business affairs in an office behind the famous Graceland mansion. Both Vernon and his wife, Elvis' mother Gladys (who will be played byMaggie Gyllenhaal), lived with Elvis there, and they were mostly a happy family.
However, Variety notes that Vernon was famously insecure, knowing he was unqualified to take care of his son’s affairs, and would often be worried about losing their fortune and going back to the poor lifestyle they led before. you may read more favorable things about Vernon Presley overat the Graceland website.
Tom Hanksis also on board as Elvis Presley’s manger, Colonel Tom Parker, a man who would end up betraying Elvis and taking advantage of his stardom.
With all the rage surrounding musical biopics lately, thanks to the success ofBohemian Rhapsody, there will undoubtedly be a lot of hype around this movie. We’re hoping that in the hands of Baz Luhrman, who has style to spare, it’ll be something a little more exciting and original likeRocketman.
