EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, the documentary directed by Baz Luhrmann, is based on recently rediscovered rare archival footage dating back to the early days of Elvis Presley’s residency in Las Vegas. What was supposed to be a temporary appearance at the International Hotel in the summer of 1969 turned into a landmark event, kicking off a run that would last over seven years and redefine the artist’s career. MORE INFO AND BUY TICKETS

The documentary alternates between backstage moments where Presley appears relaxed and energetic, and live performances that show him both electrifying and exhausted. Some shows feature him performing with power and charisma, while others reveal his exhaustion from sustaining an exhausting pace, with two concerts a day and increasingly demanding arrangements. There are moments when he runs out of breath or seems overwhelmed. Among the most memorable songs are “Polk Salad Annie” and “Burning Love,” which topped the charts in 1972. We also see brief appearances by enthusiastic celebrities attending the shows.

Unlike the more bitter portrait sketched by Baz Luhrmann in the film Elvis, which emphasized the controversial figure of manager Colonel Tom Parker, this work instead focuses on the artist and his music. Thus, his deep connection to his gospel, blues, and country roots emerges, as does his instinctive ability to create arrangements and rhythms in a unique and captivating way. The result is a sincere portrait, perhaps the most moving one to date,