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“He wasn’t a hillbilly who stumbled into success,” says Alan. The Searcher incorporates unseen footage of Elvis in the studio, drawing on his vast knowledge of gospel, country, blues and pop to create a musical synthesis that had never been heard before.

“Throughout his life, he turned to music, was healed by it and used it to process the world around him,” director Thom explains to the Weekly.

Perhaps Tom Petty put it best: “This is Picasso. This is taking your influences and going somewhere with them to a place that’s new. Elvis didn’t get lucky. He had a drive from day one.”

Tragically, that drive died out after he felt obliged to the Colonel to do kitschy movies and Vegas shows.

“I lost my friend at an early age due to creative disappointment,” tells Jerry. “He was embarrassed by some of the stuff he was doing.”

“Those last shows are hard to watch,” laments Priscilla. “I don’t even know why he got on stage.” Concludes Tom, “He felt outgunned and gave up.”

Yet Elvis’ legacy lives on in his music – and The Searcher’s tender tribute.

“He was a human being,” says Jerry. “He has four beautiful grandkids he’s never seen. He had a great career, but he deserves so much more. I hope in this film, we give him the credit due.” In any case, for his millions of fans, Elvis remains always on our minds.