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How did Norman Taurog help create the Elvis movie genre?

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Director Norman Taurog, wearing a hat and glasses, sits beside actor Mickey Rooney, who is smiling, on the set of the film Boys Town, with camera equipment visible behind them. — Norman Taurog Norman Taurog (right) with Mickey Rooney on the set of *Boys Town* (1938).

Norman Taurog helped establish the "Elvis movie" genre by directing Elvis Presley in a series of popular, formulaic musicals. These films were characterized as light comedic romances featuring frequent musical interludes.12

Taurog’s collaboration with Presley began with G.I. Blues (1960), which is often considered the best of the genre. He went on to helm several other notable entries, including Blue Hawaii (1961), Girls! Girls! Girls! (1962)—which featured the hit "Return to Sender"—and It Happened at the World’s Fair (1963). In total, Taurog directed nine films starring Presley, concluding his career with titles such as Spinout (1966), Double Trouble (1967), Speedway (1968), and Live a Little, Love a Little (1968). While these movies were successful at the box office, they were frequently criticized for being musically uninspired and formulaic.12