Written by Denni Rowley
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
King Creole is a classic movie that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1958, this musical drama film starred the legendary Elvis Presley in one of his most memorable roles. Set in New Orleans, the film tells the story of Danny Fisher, a talented singer who gets caught up in the world of crime and corruption.
With its thrilling storyline, exceptional performances, and unforgettable music, King Creole remains a beloved film in the history of cinema. In this article, we’ll delve into 43 fascinating facts about the movie that will give you a deeper appreciation for this iconic piece of cinema history.
Key Takeaways:
- King Creole, starring Elvis Presley, is a timeless classic that showcases his versatile acting and captivating musical performances, making it a must-watch for fans of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
- The movie’s exploration of love, ambition, and identity, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1950s New Orleans, creates a compelling and engaging story that continues to resonate with audiences today.
King Creole was released in 1958.
This classic film starred the legendary Elvis Presley and was one of his most successful movies.
The movie was directed by Michael Curtiz.
Curtiz was known for his work on other famous films, such as Casablanca.
King Creole was based on the novel “A Stone for Danny Fisher” by Harold Robbins.
The screenplay was adapted by Herbert Baker.
Elvis Presley plays the role of Danny Fisher, a young man torn between his love for music and his loyalty to his family.
This was one of Presley’s most dramatic roles.
The movie is set in New Orleans.
The vibrant and colorful atmosphere of the city adds to the overall ambiance of the film.
King Creole showcases Presley’s versatile acting skills.
He delivers a believable portrayal of the conflicted and troubled Danny Fisher.
The film features an impressive soundtrack.
Presley performs several memorable songs, including “Trouble,” “Hard Headed Woman,” and the title track “King Creole.”
King Creole was well-received by both audiences and critics.
It is often regarded as one of Elvis Presley’s best movies.
King Creole was the only Elvis movie to be nominated for a prestigious Golden Globe Award.
It received a nomination for Best Motion Picture – Drama.
The movie explores themes of love, ambition, and the struggle to find one’s identity.
It delves into the darker side of the music industry and the challenges faced by young artists.
Legendary actor Walter Matthau makes a brief appearance in King Creole.
He plays the role of Maxie Fields, a tough gangster.
King Creole showcases impressive dance sequences.
Presley’s energetic and dynamic dance moves captivate the audience.
The film was shot on location in New Orleans.
This adds an authentic feel to the movie and showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.
King Creole was the last movie Presley made before his two-year stint in the army.
It marks the end of his early career as a movie star.
The movie was released during the peak of Presley’s popularity.
His fanbase eagerly awaited each new film release.
King Creole features a compelling storyline filled with suspense, romance, and drama.
The plot keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
The film’s costume design captures the essence of 1950s fashion.
Presley’s stylish outfits add to his iconic image as a rock ‘n’ roll heartthrob.
King Creole was one of the few Elvis movies to be filmed in black and white.
This choice gives the film a timeless and nostalgic feel.
The movie explores the racial tensions of the time.
It addresses issues of segregation and discrimination in a subtle yet impactful way.
King Creole features a talented ensemble cast.
Supporting actors such as Carolyn Jones and Dolores Hart deliver memorable performances.
The film’s title, King Creole, refers to the nickname given to the main character, Danny Fisher.
It symbolizes his rise to fame and his status as a local music legend.
King Creole showcases Presley’s charismatic stage presence.
His electrifying performances leave a lasting impression on the audience.
The movie was a box office success.
It solidified Presley’s status as a bona fide movie star.
King Creole was Elvis Presley’s fourth movie.
It followed the success of Love Me Tender, Loving You, and Jailhouse Rock.
The tagline for the film was “His kind of woman on his kind of music.”
This perfectly captures the essence of the movie.
The film’s score was composed by Walter Scharf.
The music enhances the mood and adds depth to the story.
King Creole was released under the Paramount Pictures banner.
The movie studio spared no expense in making this production a success.
The movie was released on July 2, 1958.
It was a perfect summertime treat for Presley’s enthusiastic fanbase.
King Creole showcases the rich musical heritage of New Orleans.
Jazz and blues music play a significant role throughout the film.
The movie features a memorable scene set in a carnival.
This adds a sense of excitement and adventure to the story.
King Creole was originally titled “Sing, You Sinners.”
However, the title was changed to attract a broader audience.
The film’s cinematography is visually stunning.
The colorful and vibrant shots capture the essence of New Orleans‘ lively atmosphere.
King Creole was nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Film from any Source.
It received critical acclaim and recognition internationally.
The movie’s screenplay incorporates elements of film noir.
The dark and gritty tone adds depth to the story.
King Creole remains a fan favorite amongst Elvis Presley enthusiasts.
It is often considered a defining moment in his acting career.
The film’s running time is approximately 116 minutes.
Each minute is filled with captivating performances and engaging storytelling.
King Creole showcases the influence of New Orleans’ unique culture on the characters.
The city itself becomes a character in the film.
The movie’s promotional poster features a striking image of Elvis Presley.
It became an iconic symbol of the film.
King Creole highlights the struggle of a young artist trying to find his place in the world.
It resonates with anyone who has faced similar challenges in pursuing their dreams.
The film features intense and emotionally charged performances.
Presley’s portrayal of Danny Fisher is both captivating and compelling.
King Creole was released during a crucial period in Presley’s career.
It solidified his status as a versatile performer.
The film’s theme song, “King Creole,” became an instant hit.
It showcased Presley’s vocal range and added to the movie’s popularity.
King Creole is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
Its themes and performances remain relevant and impactful.
As evident from the 43 facts about the movie King Creole, this iconic Elvis Presley film has left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. From its memorable soundtrack to its captivating performances, King Creole remains a beloved classic that showcases the talent and charisma of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Elvis Presley’s work, King Creole is a must-watch film that will transport you back to the vibrant world of 1950s New Orleans. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in the magic of King Creole!
Conclusion
In conclusion, King Creole is an iconic film that not only showcases the immense talent of Elvis Presley but also serves as a window into the vibrant world of 1950s New Orleans. With its compelling storyline, unforgettable music, and outstanding performances, the movie continues to captivate audiences even after six decades since its release. The blend of drama, romance, and rock and roll makes King Creole a timeless classic that truly solidified Elvis’ status as the King of Rock and Roll. Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis fan or just a lover of great cinema, this film is a must-watch that will transport you back in time and leave you craving for more.
FAQs
Q: Who directed King Creole?
A: King Creole was directed by Michael Curtiz, a renowned filmmaker known for classics such as Casablanca.
Q: What year was King Creole released?
A: King Creole was released in 1958.
Q: Is King Creole based on a novel?
A: Yes, King Creole is based on the novel “A Stone for Danny Fisher” written by Harold Robbins.
Q: Was King Creole a success at the box office?
A: Yes, King Creole was a commercial success, grossing over $4 million at the box office.
Q: Did Elvis Presley receive critical acclaim for his performance in King Creole?
A: Yes, Elvis Presley received praise for his acting prowess in King Creole. Many critics consider it to be his best performance in a film.
Q: Are there any memorable songs in King Creole?
A: Absolutely! King Creole features several memorable songs performed by Elvis Presley, including the title track “King Creole” and “Trouble”.
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