Elvis: That's the Way It Is (1970)

3 Stars (out of 4)

That's All Right

By Jeffrey M. Anderson

After a decade and a half of making silly movies (yes, some of them are cool and fun, but let's face it, not very many of them are very good), Elvis Presley turned a corner and made this concert film, which was released in theaters. In it, Elvis has just entered the "older Elvis" phase; he's no longer a rocker. He's got the shaggy hair and huge sideburns and white jumpsuit, and when he sings his older tunes, such as "That's All Right (Mama)," "Love Me Tender," or "Heartbreak Hotel," they don't sound quite as urgent. This is Las Vegas, and the songs sound Vegas-y. Elvis also does some covers, like "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'" and "Bridge Over Troubled Water." The cool thing is that, despite the lack of rock 'n' roll, Elvis is still an astounding performer, using his sense of humor, working the audience, and exuding incredible energy and charisma.

The film was recut in 2001 to make a version that concentrated more on music and less on commentary, and now both versions have been released in Warner Home Video's new Blu-ray set, as well as in a limited 2014 theatrical release. There's a featurette on the restoration, some outtakes, and a trailer. It also includes a cool little booklet filled with photos.