It combines archival footage with reenactments, and voice-over narration by pop singer Ral Donner, imitating Presley's speaking voice.

Presley's former road manager Joe Esposito and girlfriend Linda Thompson provided their own narrations.

Presley receives credit only in the extended version prepared for cable and later home video release.

In a contemporary review, Variety wrote, "A real curiosity item, This Is Elvis is a fast-paced gloss on Presley's life and career packed with enough fine music and unusual footage to satisfy anyone with an interest in the late singing idol.

"[3] A two-disc DVD set of the film was released on August 7, 2007 commemorating the 30th anniversary of Presley's death.