Bubba Ho-Tep (2003)

In a quiet little retirement home in East Texas, Elvis Presley (Bruce Campbell) finds himself capable of doing nothing more than grieving over the disgusting growth that’s been found on his member. While no one in the

facility, especially Elvis’s favorite nurse (Ella Joyce), will believe him, we’re dealing with the true King of rock and roll himself. Now stuck in a nursing home after the impersonator he had chosen to take his place had become a little overzealous, winding up dead, the only person who he’s managed to find that will believe him is a fellow resident named Jack (Ossie Davis). But the elderly black gentleman named Jack claims to be a disguised John F. Kennedy.

Can these two team up to defend what’s left of the life that the residents of this quiet little retirement home have from the likes of an evil Mummy?

Based on the short story written by cult author Joe R. Lansdale, Bubba Ho-Tep is one of those amazing movies that you may have never heard about unless you follow cult films or Bruce Campbell movies (there are people who don’t follow Bruce Campbell movies?!). Campbell manages to not only nail the voice and mannerisms of the king, but does so perfectly as both old and young Elvis. Together with the acting excellence of Davis, the on screen chemistry is perfect.

Like all movies with Bruce Campbell in it, we never find ourselves with a shortage of quotes. While you may not be able to use all of these lines in the presence of your family, you’re sure to have a few rolling through your head after watching this film.

Although the budget wasn’t exactly high for Bubba Ho-Tep, the quality of the special effects were still pretty top notch as you could see from the fight scene between Elvis and the Mummy-spawned insects. What’s lost in the glamor of CGI is made up for by the interaction between Campbell and the imaginary beasts.

One thing to make clear however, is that this film isn’t too action packed. Remember that this is dealing with a retirement home and two elderly individuals. The film is mostly centered about death and the notion of dying with dignity. The ending doesn’t seem to bring much closure to the film either, leaving many disappointed by the overall feeling that their left with. But rumors have been floating for quite some time that we may actually see a sequel. Only time will tell.

While this film may not be for everyone, it’s still one of the more enjoyable B movies to come out of Bruce Campbell’s career. If you’re looking for something different, definitely check out Bubba Ho-Tep.