The Auction at Graceland•January 8, 2020
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/8/2020
Speedway stars Elvis as Steve Grayson, a race car driver whose financial mismanagement has led him to trouble with the IRS. Nancy Sinatra plays Susan Jacks, the IRS agent tasked with recovering that debt, who becomes Steve’s romantic interest. Significantly, Nancy Sinatra performed the only non-Elvis song to be featured on one of Elvis’ soundtracks. Nancy’s seductive and playful performance in this film won her accolades while Elvis’ character was loosely based on his own generous nature of giving cars and other expensive gifts to friends, family and fans. The movie was filmed at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina with production beginning in June 1967 and completing not long after. The film was released a year later with the official premiere hosted on June 12, 1968 at the Park Terrace Theater in Charlotte, North Carolina. The general release followed the next day. Offered is a special poster, printed by Benton Card Company of Benson, NC, in eye-popping red, black and white for the world premier showing in North Carolina. The poster touts “Carolinas’ Welcomes World Premiere / Charlotte Made! / Elvis Presley Nancy Sinatra / Speedway” with the iconic depiction of Elvis and Nancy dancing against a checkered flag design background. The poster also mentions their co-star Bill Bixby and of course hometown pride “MGM’s Filmed at Charlotte Motor Speedway.” This incredibly rare relic from the premiere showing of the film measures 28 by 22 inches (71.12 x 55.88 cm) and is accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated.
The poster suffers from some age-related toning and mild staining, with some edge wear and a few creases. Excellent condition.