Elvis on Tour, the Golden Globe-winning documentary that followed Elvis on a 15-city tour of the United States in 1972, will make its debut August 3 in newly-restored and remastered Blu-ray and DVD versions from Warner Home Video. A screening of the documentary on August 14 in Memphis will follow the home entertainment release as WHV joins in the celebration of Elvis Week (August 10 – 16), commemorating the 75th birthday year of the rock ‘n’ roll icon.
Elvis on Tour, considered to be Presley's last film before his death in 1977, was described by Variety in their review as “a bright, entertaining pop music documentary detailing episodes in the later professional life of Elvis Presley, the pioneer Pied Piper of rock music.” The film was written and directed by Robert Abel and Pierre Adidge, and the cinematographer was Lucien Ballard. Songs included “See See Rider,” “Proud Mary,” “Burning Love,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Teddy Bear,” “Hound Dog,” “Can't Help Falling in Love with You,” “Love Me Tender,” “All Shook Up,” “Suspicious Minds,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Are You Lonesome Tonight” and more.
Some of the highlights of the new versions:
- Remastered in High Definition with 16 x 9 2.40 letterboxed image, as seen in the theatrical release.
- Blu-ray audio will be DTS-HD Master Audio (5.1 Surround); DVD audio will be Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround.
- Packaged as a Blu-ray book filled with Elvis photos, quotes, trivia, a tour itinerary, set lists, costumes, and background information about the filming techniques used.
- 25 musical numbers spotlight Elvis Presley’s talent, range and showmanship in captivating on-stage performances and intimate backstage rehearsals with his band.
- Contains Elvis’ first performance of “Burning Love,” which was so new, Elvis referred to the lyric sheet during his performance.
- Elvis’ Ed Sullivan Show performance is included, in which the charm, personality and musical ability that made him an icon is so evident.
- Montage sequences (supervised by Martin Scorsese) showcasing Elvis’ early career and movies.
Essential Elvis Magazine
(Source: Warner Bros. / Essential Elvis / Elvis World Japan).