Johnny Presley, alongside his partner Frankie (Donna Douglas), performs on a riverboat casino situated on the Mississippi River during the 1890s. A fortune teller suggests he seek out a woman with red hair to improve his gambling fortunes. When the girlfriend of the casino’s manager appears (Nancy Kovack), Johnny believes having her around will bring him luck, which causes conflict with Frankie. Harry Morgan is featured playing piano, and Sue Ane Langdon portrays another performer who seems isolated. “Frankie and Johnny” from 1966 marks Elvis' twentieth film out of a total of thirty-one in his acting career. It’s not widely remembered because, although it offers some enjoyment and vibrant visuals, it doesn’t compare to Presley's more well-known movies such as “Roustabout” (1964), “Viva Las Vegas” (1964), “Kid Galahad” (1962), “Blue Hawaii” (1961), “Easy Come, Easy Go” (1966) and “Live a Little, Love a Little” (1968). Elvis’ films often involve taking the established Elvis formula and placing it within various settings. In "Roustabout," he's employed at a carnival; in "Viva Las Vegas," he competes as a racer; and in "Kid Galahad," his role is that of a boxer. So, “Frankie and Johnny” presents this familiar concept set against the backdrop of a riverboat casino. I feel the movie’s biggest problem is its entirely studio-bound setting, which gives it an artificial quality. This feeling is made worse by its exaggerated, comedic tone. Don't anticipate anything like the serious drama found in “Roustabout” or “Kid Galahad.” Still, it can be an amusing and colorful film when you’re looking for something uncomplicated and entertaining. It was also nice to see Nancy Kovack, who is best known for her role as Nona in the "Star Trek" episode "A Private Little War" (1968). Donna, of course, played Elly May Clampett on The Beverly Hillbillies. The film’s running time is 1 hour and 27 minutes; it was filmed at Samuel Goldwyn Studios and The Lot in West Hollywood. GRADE: C+/B-

Source on TMDB