Originally named “Lonesome Cowboy,” Presley’s turn in the 1957 film “Loving You” allowed him to explore themes close to his lived experience. The film depicts the rise of his character, Deke Rivers, from a small-town beer delivery guy to a rock ‘n’ roll sensation (via Timothy Knight’s “Elvis Presley in the Movies: A Retrospective”).

Rotten Tomatoes audience scores rank “Loving You” at 68% and with good reason. The movie expertly captures the excitement and enthusiasm of Presley’s performances. While Elvis felt comfortable in the role of a fast-rising rock star, the film also marked one that Colonel Tom Parker could get behind. After all, Parker wanted to cultivate the King’s family-friendly persona. That said, the movie still contains some spicy moments, like Elvis’ first onscreen smooch, according to Steve Templeton’s “Elvis Presley: Silver Screen Icon.” Interestingly, his partner in crime, Jana Lund, wasn’t even one of the leading ladies in the movie. Instead, she occupies a minor role as a fan who makes trouble. 

Besides this innocent lip-locking, the film boasts vibrant technicolor and a first-rate cast that includes Wendell Corey and Lizabeth Scott. Delores Hart co-stars with Elvis, a well-matched casting decision that would be repeated to great effect in “King Creole.” The movie premiered at the Strand Theater in Memphis, Tennessee, on July 9, 1957, and it remained on the National Box Office Survey by Variety for one month, at one point reaching No. 7.