Elvis Presley - A Crazy America

Elvis' genius is not limited to being the first rock'n'roll icon. He quickly became an immensely popular singer with the American public by synthesizing country music, gospel, romantic variety, pop... Hero of dozens of stereotypical Hollywood films, idol singing only to sold-out crowds, whether in Las Vegas or in stadiums and arenas all over the United States. Elvis is a romantic character whose loves and pleasures fascinate the public and the media. He astounds his country as well as the entire world.

This Tennessee Pentecostal, shaped and obsessed by his religion, both rigorous and exuberant, constantly confronts "good" America. The latter looks down on the accent and cultural identity of this little white southerner, on whom fame and fortune fall. Because he remains a permanent enigma. Why does he agree to become a "normal" GI during his military service? Why does he remain tied until death to his manager, the (fake) Colonel Parker ? Why does he never sing abroad? What will he do at the White House when he meets President Richard Nixon? Why return to the stage after a long absence and why these years of frenetic touring?

From the insolent seduction of the young Elvis to his fatal addictions, Bertrand Dicale examines this madness of unique dimensions. He questions in turn the text of the Bible, the essence of rock'n'roll, the racial question in the South, the cynicism of the pharmaceutical industry or the economics of cinema... An adventure which, so long after the death of the King, remains mysterious.