He was dressed in expensive, shiny, immaculate clothing the entire film. But their characters we’re supposed to be dead broke.
I know Elvis has his image, which was a major selling factor in the film. But artistically, it disaccords with the story.
Just because someone goes broke doesn't mean their wardrobe suddenly goes hobo.
shareSo his character a previously wealthy person who became broke afterwards? The movie implied that his character was always broke
shareMike (Elvis) was a pilot who didn't have a problem getting gigs. Since he obviously had an interest in fine, stylish apparel, he would've kept up an impressive wardrobe. The problem wasn't Mike, but rather his partner (Lockwood) and his foolish gambling. Danny blew the money Mike had set aside to pay their debts, but not Mike's personal money that he had used for nice clothes and what have you. Even when they're hitch-hiking to Seattle, Mike is plainly shown carrying his travel apparel with which he seems fairly preoccupied.
shareYup. Some of the most indebted people on earth are oil tycoons in the "bust" cycle of their business. They still live nicely.
And people dressed better back then. Business casual was not yet a thing. Even (especially?) poor people wanted to make a good impression. I look at photos of my older relatives from that era. They're 2nd gen Americans raised by modest dirt farmers. But they always dressed nicely on special occasions, when photos were taken. It's shallow, but I like movies from this era for this reason.
He also had a small suitcase yet had multiple suits and shirts.
share