Viva Las Vegas: Bloopers, Goofs, and Funny Elvis Moments You Might Have Missed

Elvis Presley remains one of those iconic American figures whose legacy is impossible to duplicate. His dynamic chemistry with Ann-Margret in the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas was mesmerizing, especially during their delightful duet, “The Lady Loves Me.”

Yet, not everything went according to plan during filming. There were numerous amusing mishaps and overlooked errors that have now been brought to light. Ready to delve into these hidden gems? Join me for a closer look!

Elvis and Ann-Margret forged a memorable on-screen and musical legacy with Viva Las Vegas, a film that became Elvis’s top-grossing venture. Playing Lucky Jackson, Elvis’s character is a determined race car driver with dreams of glory in Las Vegas. Ann-Margret’s role as Rusty Martin, a spirited dancer who catches Lucky’s eye, brought vibrant energy to the movie.

In my view, it’s one of the most underrated films of its era. It not only showcases captivating performances but also offers a nostalgic glimpse of old Vegas, capturing landmarks from a bygone era.

Elvis and Ann-Margret’s chemistry was palpable, both on and off-screen. But beneath the glittering facade, the film has plenty of humorous blunders and unnoticed mistakes that even the most devoted fans might have overlooked.

Elvis’ Unexpected Box Office Triumph

Like many, I always assumed Blue Hawaii was the crown jewel among Elvis’s 31 movies. In any trivia game, my guess would firmly be that it’s his highest-grossing film. But, much to my surprise, Viva Las Vegas surpassed it by an impressive $450,000, securing its spot as Elvis’s most financially successful film, despite mixed reviews. Notably, at just 1 hour and 25 minutes, it’s also his shortest film.

Ann-Margret’s Shining Stardom

It’s hard to fathom today that in some theaters, Ann-Margret was billed above Elvis Presley due to her immense popularity at the time. This speaks volumes about her star power as a Swedish-born actress in the mid-1960s.

Focus on Visual Appeal

Upon its release, 22-year-old Ann-Margret faced criticism from Variety’s reviewer “Tube” regarding the film’s emphasis on her physical attributes:

“Any excuse to gaze at a moving derriere seems welcomed by director George Sidney and cameraman Joseph Biroc. Though the enchanting Ann-Margret and other actresses dazzle the male eye, the film’s fixation on anatomical curves and skin often lacks taste and subtlety.”

The Lasting Landmark

Viva Las Vegas significantly contributed to Las Vegas’s image as an international tourist hub. As mentioned, of all the casinos featured in the 1964 opening sequence, only six still stand today. This little fact highlights the transformation of Las Vegas over the years.

The filming locations spread throughout Las Vegas, occurring before Elvis’s marriage to Priscilla at the Aladdin and his famous residency at the International Hotel (now the Wingate).

What Made Viva Las Vegas a Hit?

The film’s popularity can be credited to several factors: the undeniable chemistry between Elvis and Ann-Margret, the lively and catchy soundtrack, and its vibrant technicolor visuals. Together, these elements highlighted both stars’ magnetic performances and the enthralling neon allure of Las Vegas.

Elvis and Ann-Margret’s First Encounter

Ann-Margret held a special place in Elvis’s heart. They first met in early July 1963 at the Radio Recorders studios in Hollywood. Introduced on an empty MGM soundstage, their encounter was meant to be historic