Elvis and Annabelle - DVD review

Blake Lively's Annabelle has been in pagents all her life. Finally, she wins big time in the state of Texas. Max Minghalla's Elvis has lived a quiet life as an undertaker's son. He's a bit of a loner and sad sort. He spends his days taking over his father's job at the funeral home, still mourning the death of his mother, where they live on the outskirts of town.

Their eyes lock briefly in passing. They go their separate ways. After all, Elvis has a sick father to look after. Annabelle's got beauty contest to win. And then something tragic happens.

Its the most unlikely quirky romance I've ever seen. Made in the Austin, Texas area, this indie film brings to life such a wonderful and sincere group of characters. British Max Minghalla gives such a twangy Texan performance that isn't over the top. Blake Lively is a sweet southern belle in her own right.

Its one of those films that got a ITS A MIRACLE kind of feel to it. Annabelle is thinking she's never lived life until she's met Elvis - who of course, has been trying to keep the family business going. Naturally, there is a bit of a disturbing factor to it. Yet, that's what gives this film an edge.

Joe Mantegna as Elvis' dad gives a remarkable performance. I've never seen him in any film quite like this. His Joan of Arcadia co-star Mary Steenburgen plays Annabelle's Mom who just wants better things for her daughter, even if it might harm her more in the long run. And Keith Carradine plays Annabelle's step-dad who's just a bit unnerving.

The cinematography brings out the best in this adventure. I love the setting where Elvis lives. Both characters go through their own journeys of the past, present and future. Really, its a lovely film.

STORYLINE: Groomed by her overly ambitious mother, Anabelle is on the road to winning the Miss Texas Rose tiara when she dies tragically during a pageant. Her death lands her on the embalming table of Elvis, an embittered young man whose sense of family duty and love for his ailing father keep him from following his dreams. When Anabelle is miraculously resurrected on Elvis' embalming table, the two unexpectedly connect and sparks fly. With the help of each other and Elvis' father, they discover love, freedom and happiness as the real world and their own demons threaten to force them apart.
elvis&annabelle