Sofia Coppola takes the stage with her latest film, “Priscilla,” a captivating adaptation of Priscilla Presley’s memoir, “Elvis and Me.” Unlike Baz Luhrmann’s flamboyant portrayal of Elvis, Coppola delves into the depths of Priscilla’s tumultuous relationship with the King of Rock and Roll. Priscilla, portrayed flawlessly by Cailee Spaeny, takes center stage as she navigates the seduction and charm of Elvis, alongside the coercion, isolation, and eventual path to liberation that unfolds behind the walls of Graceland. With Priscilla Presley serving as executive producer, this film is far from a hagiography; it offers an intimate exploration of an adolescent trapped in the gravitational pull of an enigmatic and damaged man.
The story commences with Priscilla, a ninth-grade student stationed unhappily in 1959 Germany with her family. It is here that Elvis makes his grand entrance, inviting the young teenager to a party at his nearby home. Jacob Elordi’s vulnerable performance captures Elvis’s hound-dog drawl and the restrained courtship between him and Priscilla. Recognizing the age difference, Elvis controls their passion, leaving Priscilla longing for more. As Elvis is shipped back to Memphis, Priscilla is left behind, beginning a repetitive routine that she would endure throughout their relationship: Elvis calling the shots, expecting everything, and promising nothing.
Priscilla’s journey takes her to Graceland, the extravagant mansion where she is expected to play the role of Elvis’s lover, playmate, teacher, and stylist. However, she quickly discovers that her position is not as exclusive as she would hope. Elvis’s omnipotent “Memphis Mafia,” his drug use, and his other affairs overshadow Priscilla’s presence in his life. She becomes cognizant of the fact that in order to be Elvis’s “baby,” she must conform to the stringent expectations imposed upon her. While Elvis assures her that she has everything a woman could desire, the question remains: Does she truly know what she wants when her life is entirely defined by someone else?
Coppola enthralls audiences with her meticulous attention to detail, creating a world of atmosphere and emotion that envelops Priscilla. The film showcases beautiful production design and a recurring baby-pink motif that permeates every aspect of Priscilla’s life. From carpets to Cadillacs, hair dryers to mohair sweaters, and even flowers, the pink hues symbolize the innocence and vulnerability of Priscilla’s youth. Spaeny’s expressive eyes add an additional layer of depth to her character, capturing the wonderment and dejection she experiences throughout the film.
Coppola celebrates the iconography of mid-century teendom, emphasizing the significance of appearances and conformity during that era. The film worships the meticulously styled hair, lashes, and nails, while also emphasizing the presence of a gun for every outfit. Priscilla’s life becomes a constant struggle between meeting Elvis’s expectations and retaining her own identity. The film carefully keeps Elvis’s music and movies at a distance, focusing primarily on Priscilla’s experience as she navigates her own isolation within Elvis’s world.
Jacob Elordi delivers an impressive performance as Elvis, despite not sharing a physical resemblance with the icon. He flawlessly captures the mercurial nature of Elvis, swinging between hesitant confessor and chair-chucking sulker. Elordi’s towering presence looms over Spaeny, portraying Elvis as both captivating and overpowering. While Austin Butler’s recent portrayal garnered significant acclaim, Elordi takes a different approach, embodying the manipulative ringleader rather than the performer or Momma’s boy.
“Priscilla” is a beguiling companion piece, contrasting sharply with the flashy and extravagant style of Luhrmann’s film. Coppola’s approach showcases her mastery in creating an evocative atmosphere that mirrors Priscilla’s yearning. However, the film suffers from an abrupt ending and a more muted tone, perhaps in comparison to Coppola’s other biopic, “Marie Antoinette.” Nevertheless, “Priscilla” offers a captivating exploration of a young woman’s journey towards self-discovery and emancipation within the confines of fame and love.
“Hollywood Buzz” and “Premiere” present “Priscilla” in US cinemas on October 27, with a scheduled release in UK cinemas on December 26, 2023 (previews), and January 1, 2024 (wide release). Prepare to immerse yourself in the complexities of Priscilla Presley’s captivating story.
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