Review of Viva Las Vegas (1964) by Bella V — 26 Jan 2009

One of the better films made by Elvis Presley, at a time when he only ever seemed to be making films. But, this one is well made for it's day, and benefits from being well shot and having good songs to it's name.

Elvis stars as Lucky Jackson, a race car driver who has come to Las Vegas to partake in the Grand Prix race. However, his car needs a new engine, and he doesn't have the money. In order to raise the money, he gets a job as a waiter, but loses the money after falling for Rusty Martin (Ann-Margret), pool manager and swimming instructor.

Now, he has to raise the money all over again, and he's also facing competition in the race from Count Elmo Mancini (Cesare Danova), who also wants Rusty. This is one of those cheerful and colourful musical comedies that did the rounds during the 1960's, but Elvis' charisma and chemisty with Ann-Margret makes the movie engaging, the set design was stunning for it's day, and the final race is suspenseful, well shot and very exciting indeed.

Oh, and the songs are unforgettable!! Especially the title song, which has gone down in history. :).