Speedway (1968)

Elvis as a stock car racer harassed by an IRS agent played by Nancy Sinatra

A successful racer is generous with his earnings and naïve about his best friend’s handling of his finances (Bill Bixby) when an IRS agent comes sniffing around (Nancy Sinatra).

“Speedway” (1968) was Elvis’ 27th movie of the 31 in his acting filmography.

How much you appreciate this one will depend on how much you like stock car racing and Nancy Sinatra. Presley looks his best and has his usual charisma; you wouldn’t know he was taking diet pills at the time to keep his weight down or struggling with his desire to put out more serious films. Nancy doesn’t do much for me physically, but I like her mane and she’s likable enough, plus her singing is great. Meanwhile Elvis and Bixby have great chemistry in their shenanigans.

It’s a fun and serviceable Presley entry highlighted by the swinging 60’s vibe and the generous naiveté of the protagonist, yet “Speedway” doesn’t stand out in Elvis’ oeuvre.

The film runs 1 hour, 34 minutes, and was shot at Charlotte Motor Speedway, North Carolina; Riverside International Raceway, California; and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Culver City, California.

GRADE: B-/C+