In 1956, Elvis Presley made his debut on the big screen with his first film, “Love Me Tender.” The movie was a western drama directed by Robert D. Webb and produced by 20th Century Fox. It was originally titled “The Reno Brothers,” but was later changed to capitalize on the success of Elvis’ hit song “Love Me Tender.”
The film tells the story of the Reno brothers, a family of Confederate soldiers who return home after the Civil War only to find that their land has been sold and their family torn apart. Elvis plays the youngest brother, Clint, who falls in love with his brother’s widow, played by Debra Paget. The movie explores themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal against the backdrop of the post-war American South.
“Love Me Tender” was a commercial success, grossing over $4 million at the box office and solidifying Elvis’ status as a multi-talented entertainer. The film also showcased his musical talents, featuring several songs performed by Elvis throughout the movie, including the title track “Love Me Tender.”
While “Love Me Tender” may not have been a critical masterpiece, it was a significant moment in Elvis’ career and set the stage for his future success in Hollywood. The film helped to launch Elvis as a movie star and paved the way for his subsequent acting roles in movies such as “Jailhouse Rock” and “Blue Hawaii.”
Overall, “Love Me Tender” remains a beloved classic among Elvis fans and serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.