On Saturday afternoon, September 6, acclaimed filmmaker Baz Luhrmann unveiled his latest project at the Toronto International Film Festival: EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert, a groundbreaking concert-documentary.

Luhrmann, known for his extravagant productions like Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge!, The Great Gatsby and Elvis (2022), presents this new film as a continuation of his deep dive into the life and legacy of the King of Rock’n’Roll. While working on Elvis, Luhrmann discovered 68 boxes of never-before-seen footage in the Warner Bros. archives, stored deep in the salt mines of Kansas. The footage documented Elvis’s early years performing in Las Vegas, and Luhrmann knew immediately: the world had to see it.

During his opening remarks, Luhrmann explained that EPiC is neither a traditional documentary nor a typical concert film. Instead, it offers a unique perspective: Elvis tells his own story. Through interviews, archival videos and the newly uncovered footage, the film paints an intimate portrait of an artist, who grew up in the South of the United States and was deeply influenced by country music, gospel and rhythm’n’blues. Once considered a threat to societal norms, Elvis ultimately became a cultural icon and the undisputed King of Rock’n’Roll. EPiC isn’t about drama or politics –⁠ it’s a celebration of music and talent.

Following the premiere, Luhrmann and editor Jonathan Redmond shared insight into the film’s technical challenges. Most notably, the rediscovered footage had no sound. It took Warner Bros. two full years to restore the visuals and meticulously synchronize them with audio recordings.

The world premiere of EPiC was more than just a screening—it was reminiscent of a real party. Audience members clapped, sang along, and even danced in the aisles. Luhrmann himself joined in the fun, dancing with infectious enthusiasm after the film ended. His passion for the project radiated through the room and clearly struck a chord with the audience.

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert is a must-see for Elvis fans and music lovers alike. A distribution date has yet to be announced.

Photography by Darina Granik and ​​courtesy of TIFF.