Music

New Elvis Presley Documentary Focuses on His Triumphant 1968 Comeback Special

Published

August 2, 2023

NOTE: This article is 9 months old and may not include the most recent information.

Elvis Presley fans have something exciting to look forward to this August – a new documentary film focusing on Elvis’ career-resurrecting 1968 Comeback Special.

Set to premiere on Paramount+ on August 15, 2023, one day before the 46th anniversary of Elvis’ tragic death, Reinventing Elvis: The ’68 Comeback promises an inside look into how the King of Rock and Roll staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in entertainment history.

Directed by Steve Binder, who also directed the original 1968 TV special, the film will feature interviews with Binder himself as well as Elvis insiders and superfans who were present for the live tapings.

After spending most of the 1960s focused on acting in Hollywood and serving in the Army, Elvis was in danger of becoming irrelevant in a music world that was quickly leaving him behind. The ’68 Comeback Special was Elvis’ chance to prove to the world that he still had it, and this documentary will show just how high the stakes were leading up to the show.

Viewers will get to see behind-the-scenes footage and stories that illustrate Elvis’ state of mind at the time, as well as the machinations of his infamous manager Colonel Tom Parker. We’ll find out how close Elvis came to walking away before the special even happened, and how the chemistry and energy of his live performance won over a new generation of fans.

Hearing Elvis’ seminal hits like “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock” and “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” performed with his signature swagger and style, ended up being exactly the career boost he needed. The ’68 Comeback Special re-established Elvis Presley as a global superstar who would continue touring and recording until his untimely end.

For Elvis fans and music history buffs alike, Reinventing Elvis: The ’68 Comeback promises an intimate look at one of the most pivotal moments in rock and roll history. Mark your calendars for August 15th and don’t miss seeing the King claim his throne all over again.