Love Me Tender

Elvis plays Clint Reno, the youngest of his brothers who stays behind to tend the family farm while the others go off to fight in the Civil War. The family receives word that the oldest brother, Vance (played by a very handsome Richard Egan) is killed. Cathy, Vance's love, has lost her family in the war and now that Vance is killed, she has no one. Clint marries her and believes that she loves him the way in which he loves her. He does not realize that her heart still belongs to Vance.

Their lives are forever changed when Vance along with his brothers, reappears. He is intent upon marrying Cathy, of spending the rest of his life with her. He soon finds out that she is not free. She is now Clint's wife. Shattered and heartbroken, he conceals his feelings from his younger brother. Yet, he cannot contain the overwhelming love he has for Cathy. Nor can Cathy remain so indifferent. Knowing that Clint will soon discover the feelings they still have for each other, he makes plans to go away. But Fate intervenes.

One reckless act during the war jeopardizes Vance's future. He and his fellow soldiers have taken money. Money that has been traced back to them. They are ordered to return it or face prison. Vance and his brothers agree to this intent upon finding the other members of his troop that took part in this robbery.

Unexpectedly, Clint meets up with the members of Vance's troop and learns the horrible truth. Vance had always loved Cathy. Had longed to marry her. He believes that he was played for a fool and his jealousy and anger escalate causing him to act rashly.

Love Me Tender is an excellant story. This isn't a musical nor does Elvis sing in every scene. The plot is tightly woven with sadness, betrayal, jealousy and a love that will not be denied.

Beforwarned, the ending isn't happily-ever-after. Elvis does die yet I believe that there could have been no other ending. He could never have made Cathy happy especially once Vance came back. With every glance she cast his way, the longing was there in her eyes. And this he knew . . .

An excellant plot, believable characters and the sound of the King's voice. What better way to spend an afternoon. :)