Jim Colyer Elvis' manager wanted a Christmas Special. Producer Steve Binder saw this as a chance to resurrect Elvis' career. Fortunately, he won out. Elvis appeared in a leather suit singing a medley of the songs which made him famous. He did an unplugged bit surrounded by his cronies and a lot of pretty girls. He talked about changes in music over the previous decade. Interestingly he referred to the Byrds as The Beards. He did it on purpose. No mistake. It is notable that later renditions of 1950s rock 'n' roll hits never approached the excitement of the original records. Love Me Tender, however, stands the test of time, simple and to the point. If I Can Dream makes a strong finale.

swinebird In 1968 Elvis wasn't popular. He had made last 8 years movies and poor soundtracks. Now he was going to make a comeback by his own way.Elvis sings greatest rock 'n' roll songs ever on the show. His stage charisma is just something unbelievable, and he looks better than ever before! Black leather suit suits Elvis.Steve Binder had many great ideas, and we can say thanks to him that we see those great camera angles, like the own from the top op stage. He sure did know how to make a good TV special. Also the new version on the Deluxe Edition DVD is perfect! Almost 40 years old show, but it's still new.10/10

gazzo-2 .....his longtime double Lance LeGault using a tambourine at the edge of the 'pit concert'; he was his Stand-in during Elvis' Hollywood career. LeGault was a familiar 80's TV face, as the baddie 'the A Team', 'Air Wolf', played a navy guy in 'Magnum', etc.This whole special of course is great and what Elvis Shoulda been doing instead of 'Clambake'/'Speedway'/'Charro' type crap. Def. his best.**** outta ****. You can also get longer versions of his stage and pit in the round concerts segments too...

Jerry Ables I have absolutely no complaints about this special because I think it did a great deal of justice to Elvis Presley's stellar career. Everything about it makes it great from the pit session to the musical production numbers. Elvis even closes it out with the awesomely compelling 'If I Can Dream'. This is very easily Elvis at his absolute best. I highly recommend it to any fan.