TheLittleSongbird Elvis Presley was a hugely influential performer with one of the most distinctive singing voices of anybody. He embarked on a film career consisting of 33 films from 1956 to 1969, films that did well at the box-office but mostly panned critically (especially his later films) and while he was a highly charismatic performer he was never considered a great actor.Both 'Jailhouse Rock' and 'King Creole' in particular are proof that some of Elvis' early films are pretty good or more and that he could give a good performance when his material allowed it. Can understand totally the indifference at best towards his later films though. 'King Creole' is (along with 'Jailhouse Rock') often considered Elvis' best film, and even more widely his performance is considered his best, Elvis even called 'King Creole' his personal favourite and it is more than easy to see why on all counts.Maybe 'King Creole' is a touch overlong, and the female characters are not as interestingly written as the male ones, somewhat lazy and it's the performances that stop them from being completely vapid. Otherwise there is very little to dislike. Have commented a couple of times on the writing and stories not being strong suits in Elvis' films, but 'King Creole' is a pleasant exception. The writing is surprisingly gritty and suspenseful, with few soap-operatic or corn elements, and the story is darker and meatier than the usual story for an Elvis film, thus one of the most absorbing.As for Presley, his role here shows a dark and vulnerable side and he does it with intensity, charisma, swagger, charm and emotional honesty and no stiffness. Of his performances, which largely varied dependent on his material, it is agreed that this is his best. He has one of his best supporting casts, particularly a terrifyingly reptilian (while also remarkably complex for a mobster heavy) Walther Matthau, a touching Carolyn Jones and perfectly weasel-like Vic Morrow.The songs are absolute knockouts, especially the title song, the sultry "Trouble" and the moving "As Long as I Have You". All performed by The King of Rock and Roll in his glorious and vocally distinctive prime. Michael Curtiz directs assuredly and with finesse, making one of the best-directed Elvis films, while 'King Creole's' film noir photography and atmosphere are strikingly done.In conclusion, very good, tied for Elvis' best film and the best Elvis had to offer. 8/10 Bethany Cox

PWNYCNY A high school failure and a desperate prostitute fall in love. Some story. Nothing contrived here. The movie includes an all-star cast that turn in powerful performances. Carolyn Jones's performance is outstanding, absolutely deserving of official recognition. Her performance dominates the movie. Walter Matthau is impressive as a racketeer and thug who will stop at nothing to get his way. Elvis Presley gives a strong performance as the young man who has to make difficult choices. He also sings several songs, all of which are excellent. In fact, the movie is worth watching for the musical soundtrack alone. But what makes this movie great is the story. It starts off slow but then the dramatic tension builds. The movie is surprisingly dramatic, engaging and entertaining. Filmed in black and white, that adds a film noir element to the movie which further intensifies the story.

Rainey Dawn King Creole is actually a good movie with pretty good story. It's one of Elvis' best films. The movie is a crime-drama with some hip-shaking songs thrown into the mix. The singing in the film is actually a part of the story line since the character Danny is a singer - it's not just some random musical interlude which is the case with most of Elvis' movies.The soundtrack is actually a nice one if you like Elvis and the songs fit the movie very well. Although the music is not the only reason to watch or ignore the film.King Creole is a must see for Elvis fans and movie goers alike. It is one of Elvis' best film and character roles.And let's not forget that Carolyn Jones is in this flick! Another reason to watch the film! She is great in this movie as the "floozy" Ronnie that Danny falls for.9/10

Nathaniel Randall One of Elvis's best performances on screen. King Creole was originally written for James Dean were Dean would have played a boxer rather than a singer. Great performances by Walter Matthau and Carolyn Jones. This film has a great plot and some of Elvis's best film music including King Creole, Young Dreams, Lover Doll, Don't Ask Me Why, New Orleans, Trouble and Dixieland Rock. King Creole explores the relationship between the troubled young man Danny Fisher (Elvis Presley) and his widower father who wants him to return to school after failing his senior year. Danny wants to help his family out by working due to his fathers inability to maintain a job. While working in a night club as a bus boy he goes on stage one night and sings a song. He later becomes the biggest act on bourbon street and mobster Maxi Feilds m(Walter Mathau) wants him for his own club. Danny refuses because of his loyalty to his boss Charlie LeGrand. Through blackmail and threats Danny is forced to work for Maxi were he falls in love with Maxi's woman. A must see for celluloid fans of all ages.