Maggie Gyllenhaal Will Play Elvis Presley's Mother in Baz Luhrmann's Musical Biopic

Maggie Gyllenhaal (The Dark Knight, The Deuce) has been hired for the upcoming untitled Elvis Presley film that is being directed by Baz Luhrmann (Moulin Rouge!), who is also co-writing alongside Sam Bromell, Kelly Marcel, and Craig Pearce. Elvis Presley will be portrayed by Austin Butler (Glee, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), with Tom Hanks (Cast Away, A Beautiful Day in the Neieghborhood) playing Presley’s manager, Col. Tom Parker, and Olivia DeJonge as Presley’s wife, Priscilla.

Gyllenhall will portray Gladys Presley, Elvis’s mother. Deadline says the film “will explore the life and music of Presley through the prism of his complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager. The story will delve into their complex dynamic spanning over 20 years, from Presley’s rise to fame to his unprecedented stardom, against the backdrop of the evolving cultural landscape and loss of innocence in America.”

I’m stoked to see this. I’m a fan of Luhrmann, and while I love much of Presley’s music, I know little of his life, so I’m interested in seeing how the story plays out. Butler has a great voice, so it should be a fun watch. Are you excited for this movie?