Heartbreak Hotel (1988) User Reviews

A sweet confection

[JohnSeal · 6/10 · 20 February 2000]

If you're an Elvis purist, stay away. This film takes great liberties with the life of the King and David Keith really doesn't look like him, either. Never mind, because Heartbreak Hotel is such a sweet (and manipulative!) picture that you'll be reaching for your hanky by the end. It's the Elvis film that truly raises him to an iconic level, and I can well imagine the Church of Elvis incorporating this into their video Bible a hundred years from now. The films of Elvis himself will be the Old Testament, and Heartbreak Hotel will be one of the Gospels.

For now, grab a box of kleenex, settle into your easy chair and enjoy the re-creation of the restaurant scene from Loving You that is one of the highlights of this most enjoyable bit of fluff.

A nice interesting, entertaining film

[Soul_Stealer_2001 · 7/10 · 9 September 2006]

I have seen this film a few times, and I really do like it. Its a nice fictional story, set in the 80's. By this time Elvis obviously didn't die young, and is in his 60's, or at least getting old. Johnny helps his mum who owns a hotel. When he see's his mother in distress, he and a friend kidnaps Elvis in a bid to gain her happiness again. At first Elvis is furious, but he soon begins to live and let live, and a friendship and bond ensues between them all.

It is a pleasant film, and enjoyable. May not be to everyones taste, but I liked it.

With a good soundtrack, and good acting, it really isn't a bad film.

Heartbreaking to see a bad imitation of Elvis.

[michaelRokeefe · 5/10 · 14 August 2000]

Don't get me wrong. I do like most of Chris Columbus' other projects. I do like David Keith, but he gives one of the worse portrayals of Elvis I have ever seen. This time flattery is not complimentary. It bothers me to see Elvis portrayed with a chip on his shoulder and with such an angry attitude.

This was meant to be a fantasy/comedy, but I feel it sure misses the mark. Outlandish story of a teenage boy gathering a few of his buddies and kidnapping Elvis after a concert in Ohio. The King of Rock 'n' Roll is persuaded to 'hideout' at the home of the boy as a surprise for his depressed mother, an avid Elvis fan.

I thought this was a cute movie the first time I saw it. Upon viewing a couple of more times, I find it less attractive. For the pure Presley fans out there, this is like watching an outbreak of the plague. The ending tries to leave you with a peaceful and proud feeling, but the damage had already been done.

One time Elvis co-star in WILD IN THE COUNTRY , Tuesday Weld plays the bewildered fanatic. Charlie Schlatter plays the wise ass kidnapper.

If you are an Elvis fan and haven't already seen this; don't waste your time.

"Hell no, kid. I didn't do that for you. I did that for rock and roll."

[Dan1863Sickles · 21 June 2004]

This movie is much better than people seem to think. It's not just fun family entertainment, it really shows Elvis trying to come to terms with what went right and wrong with his life. It goes from a spooky, spiritual opening, where Elvis acknowledges his own mortality in song ("So hush little baby, don't you cry/You know your daddy's bound to die")to a rousing "If I Can Dream" finale. The idea is that Elvis gets everything right here that he got so tragically wrong in real time. He is the perfect father, husband, and artist, and he stands up for what we believe in, instead of just wasting himself. Touching and inspiring film.

What keeps the movie from going soft is the fact that the young rock and roller played by Charlie Schlatter (whatever happened to him?) is initially quite contemptuous of Elvis and his Las Vegas style lounge act. The kid chews Elvis out in a very memorable scene that really represents the feelings of millions of young 70's teens about the way Elvis went soft. The fact that Elvis listens and learns is extremely inspiring, but again, the film stays honest. At the end he tells the family, "I've found something here, and I'm afraid if I leave it will slip away again."

Sadly, it did.

Sweet and Poignant

[chows-55430 · 7/10 · 9 January 2020]

Don't expect a laugh-a-minute comedy here - in fact, the plot set up is actually somewhat sad. But if you're looking for a well-acted and directed fantasy about a superstar who becomes just a regular small-town hero, you'll love this film. There are some very funny moments but mostly I loved the magical scenes like the impromptu polka party and escape to the gazebo on the island. And the music, of course, is great!!

It almost works...

[moonspinner55 · 6/10 · 14 July 2017]

In 1972 Ohio, a teenage boy kidnaps Elvis Presley after a concert in Cleveland and takes him home (in his pink Cadillac!) to cheer up his divorced mom, despondent after a fight with her latest boyfriend. David Keith doesn't look like Elvis--he doesn't even fill out the infamous bejeweled white jumpsuit efficiently--however, he has obviously studied Presley's mannerisms and vocal rhythms, and does well in the part after an unconvincing introduction. It takes a leap of faith to believe in this nostalgic fable, but Keith enthusiastically carries it to its inevitable conclusion, carving out his own impersonation under the black Elvis wig. Also fine is Tuesday Weld (a former Presley co-star) as the long-time Elvis fan amazed to find her idol in her home, a dilapidated hotel called the Flaming Star. Weld isn't well-lit or flatteringly photographed, however her age works in her favor here (she's credible playing the mother of growing kids, not like a 30-something passing herself off as the burnt-out mother of two). Besides the leaden opening and awful kidnapping sequence (which is laboriously contrived by writer-director Chris Columbus), the weakest link in the film are the teenagers. Charlie Schlatter must have studied Elvis, too, but not in a way that was helpful; with his perpetually disgusted expressions (so teenage!) and self-conscious sneer, he's like an anchor on these wafty-fantastic proceedings (I don't think Schlatter is ever in character here, but then he wasn't given much help from Columbus' limited conception of the kid). The other young actors are also tiresome, but when Columbus finally gets down to business and allows the star-smitten mom a few private moments with her very own superstar, he manages to enchant us with a little plastic magic. **1/2 from ****

Elvis doesn't Pressly Any Charges

[CaptainSick · 5/10 · 1 January 2020]

This is no a musical, it is not a Haha funny sort of comedy, in fact it's mostly serious in the weirdest way. It's one of those movies that takes the persona of Elvis from his career In movies and music and makes it most of his personality In the film. Not a lot of subtite story telling here, a two sentence description will sum up the whole 1 hour 40 minute experience. The only thing you miss is hearing the music, decent over all though.

The king and mom.

[mark.waltz · 7/10 · 8 December 2021]

What a gift for mother's day, at least a special mother's day that isn't the official mother's day. For widowed Tuesday Weld, it's a huge surprise when she comes home from the hospital after an alleged suicide attempt when her latest boyfriend dumps her. Devoted son Charlie Schlatter isn't exactly an Elvis fan himself, preferring Alice Cooper, but to help his mother heal, decides to kidnap Elvis from a Cleveland concert and brings him to see his mom at least for one night. Of course out this isn't happy about being kidnapped, but devoted to his fans and the memory of his late mother agrees to stay at least to help her get better.

Talented actor David Keith is an interesting choice to play Elvis here, always having reminded me in a way of Kurt Russell who had appeared with eldest in a movie as a kid and later played him on screen. He's not exactly an Elvis look-alike perfectly, but if you have to have a name playing the King, Keith manages to get away with it and is very good. Schlatter is a charmer as Weld's son and she gives a tender performance as the troubled mother.

Obviously a fantasia on the life of the king and very sweet in nature, this film has a big heart and expresses it through his music which is still sung today. Keith's version of Elvis is a humble man who puts on a good show, shows generosity to his supporters and even sends one a Cadillac after reading a fan telegram. Not sure how close that is to the real Elvis, but if you're going to make a fictional version as a superstar still a door today, you might as well go all the way and create a tender fairy tale that is both funny and romantic and touching.

THE KING !

[MarioB · 2/10 · 27 August 2000]

Cute aging Tuesday Weld is sad. Everything's gone bad in her life. When she was younger, she used to be a big Elvis Presley fan, including his movies. So, to make her happy, Tuesday's son decides to kidnapped Elvis. What a nice present! Of course, Tuesday can't believe her eyes! So is Elvis! But, as the days gone by, everybody's happy. Elvis is doing the lawn, Elvis is warm to Tuesday, Elvis shows the kid how to rock. Gee... Chris Columbus movie's are all nightmares!!! I'm sure he's the Ed Wood of the 1980's and 1990's and that his films will be cult favorites for beer drinking students of 2075.

A must for all Elvis Fans

[ecri324 · 8/10 · 30 August 2005]

A Rock and Roll Fantasy with an underrated cast, this movie is a lot of fun. David Keith gives a believable performance portraying Elvis as human rather than as the icon we all choose to remember. That's the most gratifying thing about this movie; Elvis ceases to be ELVIS in all that the name/legend implies and is instead Elvis, a character who happens to be a superstar in the reality of this movie. Charlie Schlatter gives us a realistic teen who can't relate to his mother's musical preference and who benefits from the influence of Elvis--the Man, not the image. It's also nice to think that, by the end, Elvis benefits from the influence of Charlie's character! (Keeping in mind that I mean Elvis the character in this movie and not The Real Elvis!) Definitely worth seeing!

TRULY WONDERFUL ESCAPISM !!!

[bgraham-1 · 10/10 · 22 June 2001]

'Heartbreak Hotel' is one one the all-time greatest entertainment treasures. With a solid, brilliant cast led by the incredibly talented Mr. David Keith as Elvis Presley, this movie could brighten even the dullest mood with its simple charm, humour and wonderful music. Some of the more short-sighted have complained about, among other irrelevancies, the lack of facial likeness between Mr. Keith and 'The King' as if that was an error of some kind rather than recognizing the fact that Mr. Keith was obviously chosen for the role because he is an amazing 'Elvis' vocal and visual impersonator with the necessary talent in order to capture the essence of Elvis without having to rely on physical likeness which can only testify to the limitless capabilities of this great actor, so much so that there are moments when Elvis almost appears transfigure through David Keith, who incidently is also a native of the State of Tennessee.

No-one ever intended this movie to be taken seriously, but only enjoyed for its sheer entertainment value. The majority of the singing is actually performed by David Keith himself, which no Elvis impersonator could top !! I have read reviews of this movie which cast doubt on this fact, but if you watch the end titles you will see his vocal performing credits. I also know that he used his own voice because HE told me in person during several chats I had with him whilst he was here in Hope, BC with James Spader filming the upcoming movie 'The Stick-Up'. Charlie Schlater is also an immensely talented actor with the same kind of natural charisma and talent of Michael J. Fox. As I said previously, all the cast are magnificent and obviously adored making this movie as their pleasure and happiness shines through. Remember, this is not an Elvis biography, but merely a fantasy tale which in its own way honours the memory of the real Elvis. A heartfelt tribute to 'The King'. David Keith can also be seen in 'An Officer and a Gentleman'; 'U-571'; 'Men of Honor'; 'Brubaker'; 'The Rose'; 'The Lords of Discipline'; 'Major League 2'; and 'Texas' among many others.

A NICE Movie . . .

[lynneh-1 · 10/10 · 20 October 2006]

This is one of my favorite "sweet" movies of all time. Enough conflict and tension to make you wonder what's going to happen and that fun "what if . . ." factor that ties the whole thing together, especially with Elvis being such an important pop culture icon. Keith has done Elvis before I believe, and turns in a great job again, realistically I think enjoying his respite from the demands of public life, and then heading back. Everyone seems to be having fun in this "fairy tale," and I wonder if Elvis ever really got a chance to kick back like this. I'm a "baby" Elvis fan and especially love the oddball stuff connected with him, and this movie fits the bill perfectly. It's just a nice little flick to cuddle up to, preferably with someone and enjoy.

Very cute Elvis story. Tuesday Weld wonderful as the mother.

[MK-26 · 9/10 · 30 November 1999]

Good acting. Suspend belief, and enjoy an original story of the King being kidnapped for a teen's mother who is down in the dumps in a small Ohio town though who wouldn't be in a small Ohio town. 1988 movie. Big question is where is the lovely mid fiftyish Tuesday Weld now?

A fun rock 'n roll fantasy

[Pro Jury · 9/10 · 28 April 2001]

HEARTBREAK HOTEL takes the viewer on a light hearted "what if" fantasy ride to the world of the Elvis of 1972. The makers of this movie were certainly Elvis fans. There is a good amount of detailed inside information about Elvis and the plot respects his musical talents, although there is some poking fun at his personal habits.

HEARTBREAK HOTEL accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do. I hope more rock 'n roll fantasy movies will be made in the future.

See it for some light entertainment

[jmjacobs · 10 July 2003]

I just saw this movie. I was surfing on cable and I came across it. At first I thought it would be rubbish but then it caught me. At the end of the movie I found that I was in a much better mood than when I started. It was not the world's best film but I really enjoyed it. It is excellent light entertainment for Elvis fans. My advice is see it.....dont take it too seriously and dont expect too much and you will thoroughly enjoy it. I guarantee you will be singing along. Now, I'm off to listen to some old Elvis songs!

This movie has everything in it.

[margonjinn · 10/10 · 26 January 2002]

This movie is cute,funny, has action,musical. David Keith is a gorgeous man and does a great job as Elvis. The ending scene although unrealistic as is the whole movie was really awesome! I loved it. It is a shame this really didn't happen to the king because he could've used some "back to his roots" at the end of his life.

A brilliant great movie!

[Irishchatter · 9/10 · 18 January 2016]

Even if David Keith wasn't the real Elvis, he had the voice, the moves and the super outfits. It would be great if the real Elvis was still alive by the time this movie was made, I can imagine it would be a box office hit! Charlie Schlatter looking always cute, I was disappointed to see that he didn't wear a biker leather jacket, a white t-shirt and jeans when Elvis got use to him. Heck, it would make sense that he would want to be Elvis Presley all along! By the way, his character could become the next Elvis, he such a talented singer too! I was so sad at the end, I would have expected Elvis to bring the mother and the kids with him. He was such a great father figure model for both Johnny and Pam. I honestly wish the storyline did have to end well then realising it didn't. Anyways forget about it, I thought this movie was rather enjoyable and thank god, Elvis Presley's legacy lives on. RIP the king of Rock n Roll <3

Feels Great

[corey-massi · 10/10 · 6 May 2019]

Love this flick always been one of my faves. I love the "Elvis Acting" he looked enough like Elvis - with out trying to be fake. Vocals and soundtrack very good. This is just a fun movie. Who wouldn't want Elvis mowing their lawn !

This is a great movie

[gunnarvl · 21 October 2003]

This is pure fantasy. As an Elvis fan it made me think what if Elvis had been confronted with his past towards the end of his life? The end of the film I found to be sad as we all know what happened to him and wished it were otherwise. The music is very good, as are the performances. This is in my top 30.

Tuesday Weld

[hammernails-50242 · 8/10 · 5 April 2020]

Tuesday looks great since getting older ..better than when she was in wild in the country...keith did a great job..11yrs after elvis's death it was good to see a movie where they didnt try to copy his real life ..lots of laughs..and fun..i watch it over and over at least once a year

Great!

[sarah121323 · 27 May 2001]

I think HEARTBREAK HOTEL was a great movie. Maybe David Keith doesn't look much like the real Elvis Presley but he is a pretty good Elvis imitator. Ronnie McDowell sang most of the Elvis song. Besides a few which Elvis Presley sang. They have a song by Dobie Gray in it too. David Keith, Tuesday Weld, and Charlie Schlatter work great together. Heartbreak Hotel is about a single mother of 2 named Marie who is very depressed (Tuesday Weld). So her 17 year old son Johnny (Charlie Schlatter) kidnaps Elvis Presley for her. By dressing the locale pizza place owner Rosie as Gladys Presley. Elvis (David Keith) and "Johnny" get off to a bad start. You would to with the guy who just kidnapped you. But at the end they're great friends.

A Great Film!

[RossSenack82 · 10/10 · 5 September 2021]

It makes me sad how underappreciated this film is. You can't even find it on streaming networks. I had to buy it on DVD from eBay but it was well worth it.

• Ross Senack.

great move

[lucilabeltran · 10/10 · 27 March 2018]

A movie that would touch your hard and Elvis fans enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!