Elvis Presley is an American icon whose charm is impossible to replicate. His chemistry with Ann-Margret lit up the 1964 film Viva Las Vegas, especially in their duet “The Lady Loves Me.” Though the movie had its share of bloopers and overlooked mistakes, it remains a fan favorite — and the highest-grossing film of Elvis’ career.
Elvis plays Lucky Jackson, a race car driver chasing victory in Las Vegas, while Ann-Margret stars as Rusty Martin, the dancer who wins his heart. Their on-screen and off-screen chemistry was undeniable, and the film also serves as a snapshot of old Vegas, with only a few featured casinos still standing today.
Surprisingly, Viva Las Vegas out-earned Blue Hawaii by $450,000 and is also Elvis’ shortest movie. Ann-Margret was so popular at the time that some theaters even billed her above Elvis. Variety’s review criticized the film for focusing too much on her physical appeal, but her star power still dominated.
Elvis and Ann-Margret first met at an empty MGM soundstage in July 1963. Their connection was instant — she later described it as an uncontrollable, electric force. Elvis even wanted to marry her, but because he was involved with Priscilla Presley, the romance couldn’t continue. Still, the two shared deep similarities, exchanged letters, and remained lifelong friends. Ann-Margret was the only one of his female co-stars to attend his funeral.
Behind the scenes, Elvis grew frustrated that director George Sidney seemed to favor Ann-Margret’s camera angles. Colonel Parker stepped in, reminding the studio that this was an Elvis film. Even so, Ann-Margret steals the spotlight in the famous “Viva Las Vegas” dance number, choreographed by David Winters. Fans also point out Elvis’ poor lip-syncing — easy to miss next to her explosive energy.
The movie hides fun trivia: future Oscar nominee Teri Garr dances in the background, Glen Campbell plays guitar on the soundtrack, and Elvis’ friend Red West appears in multiple uncredited roles. There’s also a small goof in the “What’d I Say” number, where tape appears and disappears on Elvis’ fingers. And despite a horrific crash in the race scene, Count Mancini miraculously shows up at the wedding, totally fine.
Today, at 83, Ann-Margret still shares heartfelt memories of Elvis and Viva Las Vegas. She recalls how both were shy offstage yet transformed when performing — a bond that helped create one of the most iconic pairings in movie history.