Follow That Dream was released fifty years ago in April 1962. It was Elvis’ ninth film and is considered by some historians to be his best comedy performance. My friend Alan Hanson over at the Elvis-History-Blog flatly states “Follow That Dream is the best film Elvis Presley ever appeared in. I’ve always felt that way, and every time I see the movie I become more convinced of it.” Well, I did another viewing before doing this article, and I’m starting to see Alan’s point.I like the underplayed love story that develops as the movie unfolds. While Holly (Anne Helm) obviously pines for him, Elvis sees her as a sister (adopted), not a love interest. For most of the movie she appears in blue jeans and sneakers, but at the end, when she dresses up and does her hair and make-up, she turns into a beautiful woman. Elvis takes her in his arms and kisses her as the movie ends.
Movie Posters:
French Poster Adds a Third Girl that Wasn’t in the Movie
Strange Shot from the Movie:
Elvis Lifting Family Truck Over a Log
Historical Marker:
This Sign is Located in Inglis, Florida
Singing to Costars While Lying on His Back:
Elvis sings just five songs in Follow That Dream, but does two of them lying on the beach.
Singing “I’m Not the Marrying Kind” to Anne Helm (Holly)
Singing “Follow That Dream” to Joanna Moore
Lobby Cards:
Down Time on the Set:
Elvis and Joanna Moore
Elvis Practicing Karate Moves
Kissing the Costars:
Joanna Moore Went After Elvis, But Holly Rescued Him
Holly Gets Her Man at the End
There are differing opinions on which was Elvis’ best dramatic role, with the most frequent mentions going to Jailhouse Rock or King Creole. However, if you want to see what could be Elvis’ best single dramatic scene, check out his poignant defense in the courtroom scene in Follow That Dream. And right after that, watch Anne Helm’s touching performance as Holly finally melts Elvis’ defenses and ends in his arms and his heart.
Follow That Dream was a real feel-good movie with humour and a good script. Elvis proved his skill at both acting and comedy in this role.
What a shame it has been almost overlooked by critics. He looked so handsome too and the songs are lovely.6(
I read in the news last year, that the stretch of highway that was used in the film was finally designated “Elvis Presley Thru-Way” ………since the State of Florida gave up on all the requests and inquirys on the area that Elvis did the film………thought you would enjoy that bit of news.
Clementine:
Thanks for that bit of news. Good for the State of florida, even though it took them 50 years.
Phil Arnold, ElvisBlogmeister
I agree that “Follow That Dream” is Elvis’ best movie……….I have always felt that way ever since I first saw the movie at least 25 years ago. HIs courtroom scene is mezmerising…..and I realized that Elvis was definitely under-rated as an actor. It must have hurt him deep inside his soul to be treated so lightly……..and God knows how he tolerated the movie years with such class. Ann Helm does her own great scene at the end of the movie……to this day, I adore the song, “Angel”!! I also enjoyed his natural colored hair in that movie!!
Thanks for validating what I have known for so many years!! This is one of my favorite movies and totally agree that Elvis had great comedic timing! That courtroom scene is intense and probably one of his best dramatic moments. The theme song has long been a top 5 for me among Elvis songs, and I finally convinced a great ETA at Disneyland to sing it occasionally (my birthday) and it’s a big hit. Thanks for this blog! I love it! Long Live the King!
Carol, I thought only two people truly appreciated that courtroom scene — me and Alan Hanson at the Elvis-History Blog. Now I know we are up to three.
I see you are a Scot Bruce fan. He is coming to Greenville, SC for four days in August, including the 16th. I won’t miss that. He is great.
Phil Arnold, blogmeister ElvisBlog