Is Elvis: The Other Side Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2020)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Elvis: The Other Side, a standout production of 2020, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Documentary landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Elvis Presley was born a star and is still called the King of Rock'n' Roll. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Elvis Presley was born a star and is still called the King of Rock'n' Roll. He made an enormous impact on people's lives with his music, his shows and his loveable personality, but he had a darker side that very few people knew about. He was a complicated man with a big temper, and despite being surrounded by friends, family and his fans, he was lonely and became depressed. His quest for spirituality shows us that he was searching for answers and the meaning of life, and his spiralling drug problem played a big part into his 'descent into hell'. His best years in Vegas are haunted by the dark times throughout the final years of his life. He became broken, and while he found fame, he lost himself. His death was sudden and tragic, but the signs were there all along that the King had become ill, and wasn't up for the show anymore."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Elvis Presley, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Documentary. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Roxane Schlumberger is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 59 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Elvis: The Other Side truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 10/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Elvis: The Other Side explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2020 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Roxane Schlumberger respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Elvis: The Other Side is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Elvis Presley or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Elvis: The Other Side is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.