Elvis: His Best Friend Remembers

Just think of the stories "Diamond Joe" Esposito could tell. Of all the King's men, Esposito, who met Elvis in the Army, was the highest-ranking member of the Presley inner circle, known as the "Memphis Mafia." But anyone hoping for southern-fried gossip, scandal or perhaps even some good ol' Colonel Tom Parker-bashing will be disappointed with this wide-ranging interview that spans the years from 1959 to Presley's death in 1977. While Esposito drawls "I'm going to set the record straight," the recollections here are mostly affectionate and colorful stories that portray Elvis in the fondest light and recapture his career peaks (of course, Elvis fans wouldn't have it any other way). Interwoven throughout the interview segments are archival footage, home movies and commentary from others in Elvis's orbit, including the man who coined the phrase, "Elvis has left the building"; backup singer Kathy Westmoreland; Elvis impersonators; and other assorted oddball fans. Unfortunately, the program doesn't feature film clips or performance footage that would have illuminated stories about, say, Jailhouse Rock (Elvis's best film) and his 1968 so-called Comeback Special. While 50 million fans can't be wrong, non-Elvis devotees are unlikely to be all shook up over this release. Still, consider this a strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (K. Lee Benson)