I read in a magazine in the mid 90's this song was inspired by a friend of mark knopfler. Mark was at his house and the friend was trying to ring someone, he couldn't get through and simply stated..
"it's like trying to call elvis". to mark.
A off the cuff remark which mark liked.
The video clip cost a few dollars I believe. mark paid to get all the puppets refurnished and get the band made as puppets.
International Rescue.. (The Thunderbirds).
I don't know much more,but am reaserching at the moment.
F.A.B. VERGILE.