Did you know that you could watch the whole Love Me Tender movie online? It’s a true delight to watch for the first time and serves as a reminder of Elvis Presley’s extraordinary talent. He had everything; he wasn’t only the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Elvis demonstrated that he was a true star in every way, from his amazing singing voice and mesmerizing dancing routines to his innate acting talent and classic good features.
Elvis Presley’s big-screen debut in Love Me Tender demonstrated his indisputable appeal and musical prowess. Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, the 1956 picture combines romance, drama, and Western flair.
In anticipation of seeing their idol on the big screen, 1,500 ardent admirers spent the night camped out beneath a 40-foot cutout of Elvis at the Paramount Theater in New York City when the film debuted.
A tribute to the unmatched star power Elvis possessed at the time, his fans were so excited once they entered the auditorium that their constant yells frequently drowned out his words.
With his endearing Southern drawl and his naturally light brown hair, Elvis seemed so young and innocent in Love Me Tender. He exuded innocence and beauty.
Despite being a fan favorite, the film has some unexpected errors that may surprise you, as well as some fascinating behind-the-scenes information and hidden jewels.
The title was altered.
Love Me Tender was not the intended title of the movie. The Reno Brothers was the original title, but it was changed to capitalize on the success of Elvis Presley’s performance of the movie’s title song.
It is the only movie in which Elvis played a historical figure, and the plot is loosely based on the notorious Reno Gang. The Reno Gang, which was based in Indiana and was active in the 1860s, was a pioneer in American train theft.
Elvis Presley’s Debut Behind the Scenes
Elvis Presley was a movie usher before he became famous, where he saw stars like Marlon Brando and James Dean. He wanted to pursue a career in serious acting. Colonel Tom Parker, however, had other ideas: movies would promote Elvis Presley’s music, and vice versa.
After others turned down the part, Elvis was cast as Clint Reno, the youngest of the Reno brothers. He made it unforgettable even if it was only a little role.
Elvis Was Serious About Acting
Elvis was ranked third, behind Richard Egan and Debra Paget, and did not receive top billing. He was committed, though. He worked hard, committed to learning all of his lines (and everyone else’s), and won over producer David Weisbart, who commended him for being “humble, polite, and very serious about acting.”
In just over a month, Elvis finished filming and recording the film’s songs.
Additional Scenes Added
Even though Elvis wasn’t supposed to play the lead, studio executives spotted his charisma and added more scenes and lines to give his character more screen time.
Hold on, this is the Wild West, right?
Elvis Presley’s persona was not originally intended to sing. However, that was altered. He performs five minutes into his first scene on screen. Additionally, the setting during a benefit event is reminiscent of one of his 1950s concerts, complete with yelling fans; it is most obviously not the Civil War era.
The Unintentional Songwriter, Elvis
Although Elvis is listed as a co-writer of the movie’s songs, his involvement was primarily symbolic. He acknowledged in a 1968 press conference that he had just altered one phrase to “Love Me Tender,” collecting the royalties with little work.
The Story Behind “Love Me Tender”
The melody of the title tune, which was not an Elvis original, is based on the song “Aura Lee,” which was written during the Civil War. Although her husband, Ken Darby, wrote the additional lyrics, Vera Matson was given credit for them. Before the record was ever published, Elvis Presley received over a million advance orders for the song after performing it on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1956.
Debra Paget and Elvis
In her role as Cathy Reno, Hollywood actress Debra Paget immediately captured Elvis Presley’s affection. Elvis Presley’s renowned performance of “Hound Dog,” which featured his daring dancing routines, was the first time the two had met on The Milton Berle Show.
Later, Paget described Elvis as “pleasant, sincere, and obliging,” expressing her happy surprise at his presence. Her parents even protested when Elvis proposed to her. Later on, she fell in love with Howard Hughes, a billionaire.
Debra Paget was copied by Priscilla.
According to rumors, Priscilla Presley subtly acknowledged the influence Debra Paget made on him when she imitated her hairstyle from Love Me Tender in 1959 to attract Elvis Presley’s attention.
The ending didn’t sit well with Elvis’ mother.
Clint Reno, played by Elvis Presley, passes away in Cathy’s arms in the original conclusion. The studio softened the impact by including a silhouette of Elvis singing at the end credits since fans and even his mother were so heartbroken.
However, there was a minor continuity issue because Elvis’s hair had already been colored black because the sequence was shot later.
Well-known Bloopers
Zippers: Although they had not yet been created, a Confederate soldier zips his trousers.
Guitar Magic: Even after his hands leave the strings during “We’re Gonna Move,” Elvis Presley’s guitar continues to play.
Anachronistic Car: A contemporary automobile can be seen in the background of a window scene.
Gun Confusion: During a tense confrontation, a gun darts into and out of view from various camera angles.
These minor gaffes simply make the movie more endearing. Elvis Presley’s iconic debut and the beloved hit Love Me Tender are still in high demand.