New Elvis documentary 'EPiC' makes $14 million, a win for music movies - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Cerys Davies

March 3, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Baz Luhrmann’s new film *EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert* has made a significant impact at the box office, grossing $14 million in its limited and wide release. This hybrid concert documentary not only secured fifth place domestically but also achieved a record-breaking opening for a documentary, surpassing titles like *One Direction: This Is Us* and *Michael Jackson’s This Is It*. The film’s success highlights the enduring appeal of music-themed documentaries and concert films, attracting both die-hard fans and general audiences. Luhrmann attributes this popularity to the growing desire for shared live experiences in an increasingly digital world. The movie, featuring over 5,000 screenings across North America, showcases previously unseen footage of Elvis Presley from a Kansas salt mine discovered during production of Luhrmann’s 2022 biopic *Elvis*. Clocking in at just under two hours, the film captures Presley’s return to his Las Vegas residency after transitioning from acting. This exclusive content has resonated with audiences, as noted by Elissa Federoff, chief distribution officer at Neon, who emphasized that the film offers a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to experience Elvis at his peak. The success of *EPiC* aligns with a broader trend in the film industry, where music-related documentaries and concert films are thriving. For instance, *Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour* grossed over $260 million worldwide, while other recent releases like *It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley* and *Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii* also saw strong box office performance. This shift reflects a cultural shift toward live cinema experiences, particularly among younger audiences who crave collective, immersive entertainment. As studios increasingly focus on biopics of legendary musicians like The Beatles and Michael Jackson, the success of music films suggests a growing market for such projects. Luhrmann’s film not only pays homage to Elvis Presley but also sets a precedent for

Verticals

newscalifornia

Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 3/3/2026