Baz Luhrmann on the Burning Love Behind 'EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert'

Variety

by Chris Willman

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Baz Luhrmann’s latest project, *EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert*, has made a strong debut, drawing significant attention for its immersive take on Elvis Presley’s performances. The film opened exclusively in Imax theaters and quickly expanded to other screens, with impressive box office numbers. While it may not reach the massive success of Luhrmann’s 2022 biopic *Elvis*, the initial $10,000-per-screen average in Imax theaters marked a clear victory for Luhrmann’s vision to bring Elvis’s peak era—his early Vegas performances—to modern audiences. Luhrmann emphasized his passion for capturing Elvis’s essence during his late 60s and early 70s Las Vegas residencies, aiming to create an unfiltered theatrical experience. He collaborated closely with editor John O. Redmond to ensure the film felt authentic and immersive, encouraging viewers to embrace the cinematic experience rather than waiting for a streaming release. Luhrmann even made personal appearances at screenings in cities like Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne, London, and Los Angeles, sharing stories about his own experiences returning to theaters post-COVID and the emotional impact of seeing films on the big screen again. The film’s success highlights Luhrmann’s ability to revitalize Elvis’s legacy while appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences. By prioritizing the theatrical experience and leveraging Imax technology, *EPiC* not only honors Presley’s iconic performances but also underscores the enduring appeal of live concert films in an era dominated by streaming platforms. Luhrmann’s dedication to immersive storytelling and his effort to bring people back to theaters make *EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert* a notable contribution to entertainment, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge cinematic innovation.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/23/2026