By 1968, Elvis Presley had become a household name, but not in the way he had once envisioned. Known for his charisma and talent, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll had hoped to rival screen icons like James Dean and Marlon Brando.
Instead, he found himself trapped in a string of lackluster musical films, far from the critical acclaim he craved. His dissatisfaction and desire for artistic reinvention are at the heart of Jason Hehir’s new Netflix documentary, “Return of the King: The Fall & Rise of Elvis Presley”.
The film delves into one of the most pivotal moments in Presley’s life: his dramatic 1968 comeback. Featuring intimate interviews with Priscilla Presley, longtime confidant Jerry Schilling, and stars like Bruce Springsteen, the documentary offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the music.
Presley’s frustrations with Hollywood are palpable throughout. Clips of him performing “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” in 1967’s “Double Trouble” highlight the absurdity of his later roles, which Priscilla labeled “a crime” against his talent.
Presley’s artistic stagnation led to deep personal struggles, including bouts of illness and despair. Locked into contracts and unable to pursue serious roles, he felt his career slipping away. But by 1968, the turning point arrived: his first live performance in seven years.
The NBC broadcast, later dubbed the ’68 Comeback Special, nearly didn’t happen. Overwhelmed by stage fright and years of self-doubt, Presley hesitated to perform. It was only after a pep talk from director Steve Binder that he stepped onstage—and captivated audiences with his electrifying presence, donning a now-iconic black leather suit inspired by Marlon Brando.
The special marked more than just a return to live performance; it reignited Presley’s passion for music. Post-comeback, he embraced extensive touring and turned to gospel music for solace.
As director Hehir notes, gospel was Presley’s refuge, a link to his roots and a source of deep joy. Even in the late hours at Graceland, Priscilla would find him at the piano, pouring his soul into gospel hymns.
Presley’s untimely death in 1977 at just 42 still looms over his legacy, but Hehir’s documentary aims to focus on triumph rather than tragedy. The 1968 special is a testament to Elvis’s resilience, proving that even after years of professional and personal lows, the King could still reclaim his throne.
“Return of the King” reminds audiences not only of Presley’s unparalleled talent but also his relentless pursuit of artistic integrity—a dream rekindled in the spotlight of his historic comeback.
