A King
Documentary, Short Films, 14-Mar-2023
After 35 years as the official Elvis impersonator of Las Vegas, Jessie Garon confronts an uncertain future as his public persona begins to fade away. “A King,” directed by Ivan Olita, is a stylized documentary portrait on the sexuality, and loss of self, of an aging performer. With a sparkling facade, the film captures the escapism and allure of living like a king. But time has not stopped for Garon; as he reflects on getting older and the toll of shielding his private life from view, he faces up to newfound fears and dejection. Of late, the threat of a ban on unlicensed Elvis impersonators agitates his situation further. Filled to the brim with light, neon, and glittering suits, Olita’s film finds life in its juxtapositions. -KA. Director: Ivan Olita. A production by Bravò in association with Matte Films. Cast: Jesse Garon, Richard Nikoleit, Toni James, Jaydon Grice. Cinematographer: Andrea Gavazzi. Editor: Nate Katz, Ivan Olita. Producer: Justin Folger.