Directed by Michael D. Moore, who was an assistant director on six previous Elvis films, Paradise, Hawaiian Style was Elvis’ 21st and was filmed on location in the tropical paradise of Hawaii. The working title of the movie went through several evolutions, including Polynesian Paradise, Polynesian Holiday, and Hawaiian Paradise before it was released by Paramount in 1966 under the title Paradise, Hawaiian Style. This was the final of three films that Elvis shot on location in Hawaii. It chronicles the story of Rick Richards, played by Elvis, who starts a helicopter charter service on the island offering dazzling panoramic views of Hawaii throughout the film. Elvis arrived in Hawaii on August 5 for the on-location filming. Just two weeks later on August 18, Elvis attended a wrap-up party for the movie at the Polynesian Cultural Center after the completion of filming. By August 27, Elvis was back home at his Perugia Way home in Bel Air hosting his famous meeting with The Beatles. Offered is a check, dated August 22, 1965 and numbered 1762, written for “Cash (Groceries)” in the amount of $115.00 with the handwritten side notation “For groceries for Elvis’ L.A. house during ‘Hawaiian Paradise’ week of 8/23/65.” The shopping trip was likely in preparation for the arrival and visit of the Fab Four. The check is signed “E.A. Presley” on the front and endorsed on the reverse by “Billy Smith,” Elvis’ cousin. This check gives a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of Elvis’ personal life. The check measures 3 1/4 by 8 1/4 inches (8.25 x 20.95 cm) and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated.

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