His poor acting certainly doesn't help, but making the main character such a jerkwad, dooms this relic of early hillbilly from the beginning of the movie. He's a self-absorbed, selfish, rude, conceited tool, who doesn't engender any empathy (or even sympathy) regarding his obstacles to fame, fortune, and happiness. Again, wooden acting by Elvis (except when he's singing or fighting) does nothing to help. Neither does the vapid acting by most of his supporting cast, particularly the women. If you watch it, just skim through to watch the musical numbers.
Review of Jailhouse Rock
