 |
 |
...Poignant documentrary portrait receives standing ovation on opening night... On 16 August 2006 "Elvis, How Great Thou Art A Portrait of the Artist" had its premier screening at the Glasgow Film Theatre in Scotland. That the film received a standing ovation symbolises how powerful a message Linda Ann McConnell conveys in her impressive new documentary portrait of Elvis. This is a poignant and informative video documentary which gains strength from its well constructed narrative and conceptual design, and careful pacing. The use of video footage, including a number of very rare clips of Elvis live on stage during the 1970s (some with audio), gives the documentary added impact and will impress many fans. Linda Ann McConnell adapted her documentary from her book The Memphis Lullaby. As the liner notes to "Elvis, How Great Thou Art A Portrait of the Artist" note:
The documentary is nicely narrated by Christopher Kent, whose deep, rich tones convey the powerful impact Elvis has had around the world in so many different ways. Ms McConnell's ability to offer the viewer an appreciation of Elvis' impact beyond just musical boundaries not only enlightens us, but also adds appreciably to our understanding of what Elvis has really meant since his explosive arrival in our hearts and minds in the 1950s. The breadth of the information presented is indeed impressive, taking us from the the musical revolution called Elvis in the 1950s to his bourgeoning Internet presence and continuing popularity in 2007. The many awards, the seminal milestones, the powerful legacy.....they are all covered in Linda Ann McConnell's obvious labour of love, "Elvis, How Great Thou Art A Portrait of the Artist". Details: Video: Not surprisingly, given some of the private footage included in the documentary, the video quality varies from very good to historically impressive. Audio: Excellent Running Time: 17 minutes 8mm 70’s footage courtesy of Larry Patrick - King Video: http://pages.sbcglobal.net/king_video/kvh.htm
Soundtrack to the documentary Linda Ann McConnell further establishes her diverse range of talents by writing and singing the song "The Memphis Lullaby" which is presented over the closing credits. This is a beautifully sung tribute to Elvis, which, with its poignant lyrics and lilting melody, will appeal to many fans. Linda Ann also composed the instrumental track "Always". Music from the soundtrack has been released on CD: The five track single can be purchased from: http://www.thememphislullaby.com Verdict: "Elvis, How Great Thou Art A Portrait of the Artist" and its accompanying soundtrack single are a welcome addition to the vast archives of thoughtful material which captures the true impact of Elvis on our world. This is a documentary portrait you will enjoy time and time again. EIN Note: The film ‘Elvis, How Great Thou Art, A Portrait of The Artist' will not be released publicly on DVD. The film was produced specifically to be screened at suitable Elvis events, for inclusion within a theatre production, and for entering into film festivals in a non profit use capacity only. The American premiere in Memphis of ‘Elvis, How Great Thou Art, A Portrait of The Artist' is currently being organised. For more information about "Elvis, How Great Thou Art A Portrait of the Artist": visit The Memphis Lullaby website Click to comment on this review (March 2007) . |
|