Viva Las Vegas (1964)

Written by DanDare on December 29, 2020

Most Elvis movies were the product of a conveyor belt. Quickly written and produced and Elvis was not stretched as an actor or singer.

Viva Las Vegas does not stretch this formula but is fun, thanks in part due to the chemistry between Elvis and Ann Margret.

Elvis plays race car driver Lucky Jackson who is working as a waiter in Vegas so he can pay for a new engine.

He plans to take on aristocratic Count Mancini in the race and both are also competing for the affections of Rusty Martin (Ann Margret).

Jackson and Rusty take part in a talent contest as both aim for first prize. This is where Elvis sings Viva Las Vegas although his dancing moves look a bit weird.

Jackson's rivalry with Mancini is friendly which adds to the fun.

There is a thrilling racing sequence at the end with several competitors crashing or going off the road.

It is corny and undemanding movie.