****Excellent ***Good **Fair *Poor : VIDEOCASSETTES

“Elvis ’56.” Media. $19.95. This is the hourlong documentary that Cinemax cable presented in late ‘87, and while it overlaps other compilations--containing some of the same TV appearances, for instance--its particular focus and tone make it one of the best. Producers Alan and Susan Raymond did a superb job of gathering material, including previously unseen still photos and tape recordings, which are skillfully matched. Flavorfully narrated by Levon Helm, “Elvis ‘56” is a must for his fans. What a year; what a talent. Information: (213) 216-7900. ****