Director: Don Coscarelli
Starring: Bruce Campbell
Genre: Comedy/Horror
Studio:   Release date: 2002   Rated: R
Language (Country): ( USA )
Summary: A very odd (but fun) little film from the writer/director of "Phantasm" and the star of the "Evil Dead" series, "Bubba Ho-Tep" imagines that Elvis is still alive and, in fact, he currently resides in a nursing home somewhere in Texas. Elvis (Bruce Campbell, looking somewhat like both Elvis and Neil Young, but whatever) didn't want to be "Elvis" anymore, so he switched places and ended up here, much to his dismay (he wonders whether Priscilla would take him back if she found out he was still out there.)

Strange goings on are happening at the home, though. Residents are being confronted by beetles and being carted off, never to be seen again. Meeting up with a black JFK (Ossie Davis), the two eventually figure out that the home is being targeted by a soul sucker named Bubba Ho-Tep.

One of the film's best points is the way that approaches the material. It almost gives the picture the seriousness of a western (Brian Tyler's score helps that tone); the ridiculous material isn't taken so seriously as to be off-putting, yet the straightforward way it approaches the story and character makes the picture tragic, almost a little moving at times. Elvis's melancholy thoughts of his past youth and fame are especially well-played by Campbell. Yet, there's some very funny parts (Elvis's battle versus a flying insect seemed to be a nod to Campbell's "Evil Dead" character) scattered throughout. The horror never really works though, despite the presence of some funny, funky effects and a rest home set that looks remarkably odd and sparse during the day and even creepier at night. Maybe it's because we never learn much about the Bubba Ho-Tep character.

The performances are superb; Ossie Davis appears to be enjoying himself in the character and Campbell is perfect for the part. Both bring a hint of sadness and regret to the performances, while also perfectly portraying older men who feel lively again given the chance to, well, fight a mummy that has somehow wandered his way into their territory. The film is weird and doesn't always work, but it's played right, moves along pretty well and the performances are quite good. Fans of cult movies and Campbell's earlier work will probably be the most appreciative audience for this entertaining, offbeat fare.

Aaron Belerle (DVDTalk.com)