Bubba Ho Tep was the kickoff movie for this week’s Indie Memphis film festival. I thought it was great. You’re going to scoff, but Bruce Campbell probably deserves an Oscar nomination. His portrayal of an elderly Elvis is spot-on–funny and poignent when appropriate. Of particular note is the scene where
Elvis visits the impersonator who will take his place. The impersonator, who is also Bruce Campbell, falls on his knees and kisses the King’s ring. The tone is absolutely perfect.
Ozzie Davis does a fairly good job, but he looks lost sometimes. The movie’s shortcomings–it felt a little padded in places with too much telling and not enough showing–are easily offset by Bruce’s virtuosity. If it comes to your town, it’s worth at least a matinee.