This week, we’re discussing Don Coscarelli’s “Bubba Ho-Tep”, and usually at this point, we would write a few amusing sentences about the film. But nothing we can come up with beats this premise: Elvis Presley didn’t die and is now stuck in an Old People’s Home in Texas. He teams up with a fellow resident (a black man who claims to be a post-assassination JFK) to fight a soul-sucking Mummy in Cowboy boots.
Seen and loved by many at the time of release, now 23 years later, “Bubba Ho-Tep” seems, sadly, overlooked. Despite its horror royalty combination of “Phantasm” creator Coscarelli behind the camera, and a magnificent portrayal of a bitter and forgotten Elvis/delusional Elvis impersonator by Bruce Campbell (in possibly his best role outside of “The Evil Dead”’s Ash), it just doesn’t seem to get mentioned much anymore. Which is a shame; Campbell’s marvellous double act with the impeccable Ossie Davis as JFK give this mondo idea some real humour and heart. Despite the madcap premise, the film is also a reflection on the regrets, sadness and indignities of old age, with Elvis mourning his lost potential, and his body’s decline (in a scatalogically graphic narration).
Like its protagonists, this film shouldn’t be forgotten as it ages, but allowed its time to shine forever.
Watch (or re-watch) to avoid spoilers and join us.