Baz Luhrmann’s ‘EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert’ Acquired by Neon and Universal Pictures Content Group

The cinematic presentation "EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert," directed by Baz Luhrmann, will be distributed by Neon and Universal Pictures. Neon is set to handle the film's U.S. theatrical run, while Universal Pictures International will manage its global rollout, which is slated for 2026. This project, a collaboration between Sony Music Vision, Luhrmann's own Bazmark, and Authentic Studios, was first showcased in the official selection of the Toronto International Film Festival.

Baz Luhrmann—the filmmaker behind the 2022 hit "Elvis," which garnered Austin Butler an Oscar nomination—stated that this new film fulfills a personal goal conceived almost a decade ago. He and editor Jonathan Redmond first viewed rare archival footage that sparked the idea of realizing Elvis’s unrealized ambition for an international tour. Luhrmann emphasized that the film is an immersive journey rather than a conventional documentary or concert movie. He praised the partnership with Neon and Universal, whose broad distribution reach will ensure the film plays everywhere from small-town theaters to major international venues. "I can’t wait to TCB—taking care of business—and bring this show on the road," Luhrmann remarked.

Drawing from a trove of archival finds, the production incorporates never-before-seen footage from Elvis’s 1970s Las Vegas engagements, rare 16mm segments from "Elvis on Tour," and 8mm films preserved in the Graceland archives. Graceland, Elvis's famed Memphis home—now a museum and major tourist destination attracting over 600,000 visitors annually—played a vital role in supplying these materials. Additionally, while researching the 2022 biopic, the team uncovered audio recordings in which Elvis himself narrates key moments, lending his own voice to the story. This combination of restored visuals and personal narration gives audiences a uniquely intimate perspective.

Tom Mackay, President of Sony Music Vision, praised Luhrmann’s singular creative approach, noting that he has produced an extraordinary film about an iconic performer that truly belongs on the big screen. He highlighted the strong partnership with Neon and Universal Pictures Content Group, both recognized for delivering standout cinematic events. Colin Smeeton, President of Authentic Studios, echoed this sentiment, calling the collaboration a landmark achievement and confirming that Luhrmann’s vision of reconnecting modern viewers with Elvis has been fully accomplished. Industry observers suggest this innovative format may influence future music documentaries. As one entertainment historian observed, "By blending newly discovered audio with meticulously restored imagery, Luhrmann isn't just revisiting the past—he's reviving the live concert atmosphere for today's audiences."