Baz Luhrmann’s “Elvis” Receives 10-Minute Standing Ovation at Cannes

Austin Butler in
Austin Butler in "Elvis"

Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis biopic had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival and the audience welcomed it with open arms. Luhrmann and the film’s cast received explosive applause and a 10-minute standing ovation following the film’s premiere.

Elvis received the longest standing ovation in Cannes so far after premiering at the festival on Wednesday night. It won’t take too long for the rest of the world to see it, since it’s set to premiere in theaters on June 24.

Elvis sees Austin Butler take on the role of the King of Rock’n’Roll and chronicles his journey to stardom and his complicated relationship with manager Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). The film also stars Luke Bracey, David Wenham, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Gary Clark Jr., Richard Roxburgh, and Helen Thompson.

Following the film’s premiere, Luhrmann praised the cast and crew for their bravery to finish shooting the film during Covid, adding he’s grateful for a chance to share it with an audience in Cannes.

“To see these streets so full of people who love movies of every form of life, every kind of movie, says so much more about what this place means and what it means to be back in the cinema. For that we are eternally grateful, Cannes,” said Luhrmann.