Last week we discussed The Beatles and the fanaticism surrounding them and their music. Today, we turn our attention to another musical icon: Elvis Presley. He is apparently a big deal. His impact on music is incredible and so on and so forth; whatever – I don't get it. I've never seen the appeal in his music. Of course, this is just a lowly film columnist's opinion, and those who love him seem to really love him. And good for them.
Of course, Mr. Presley also did his fair share of film work, and his favorite role was that of Danny Fisher in the 1958 film “King Creole” which screens tonight at the Clifton Center as the concluding entry in the Wild and Woolly Film Series. In the film, Fisher is a busboy with an incredible singing voice, and once discovered he becomes a sensation. He is approached by a crime boss who wants him to perform at his club, but when Fisher refuses, things get ugly.
Of note is the director of the film, Michael Curtiz. The name may not immediately jump out, but he is renowned for directing such films as “The Adventures of Robin Hood,” “White Christmas,” Yankee Doodle Dandy,” and a little thing called “Casablanca.”
In attendance to present the film will be local biographer Alanna Nash, who has written books about Colonel Tom Parker, Dolly Parton, and, of course, Elvis Presley, among others. In addition, she covered Elvis' funeral for the Courier-Journal in 1977.
As usual, “King Creole” will screen at 7:00 at the Clifton Center, located at 2117 Payne Street. Admission is free for Friends of the Clifton Center and $5 for the general public. Concessions and a cash bar will be available prior to the film. Further information on the film screening can be found at the Facebook event page.
Image: Internet Movie Database