Behind the Scenes: Unveiling the Untold Story of Priscilla Presley's New Movie Without Elvis Music

Summary

Priscilla won't have any of Elvis's music, with Elvis Presley Enterprises denying director Sofia Coppola's requests due to its non-involvement in the film.

Coppola's creativity was tested when it came to the soundtrack, which will include unconventional music from bands such as Phoenix and the Ramones. While the lack of Elvis' music may disappoint some viewers, it has the potential to create a distinct and everlasting ambiance, differentiating the film from other Elvis biopics.

Priscilla won't feature any Elvis music, and director Sofia Coppola explains why her requests to use it were denied. Following 2022's Elvis, starring Austin Butler, Coppola's upcoming A24 film takes a different approach. It focuses on Priscilla Presley's life and her tumultuous relationship with the King of Rock and Roll. The film is based on Priscilla's book Elvis and Me, and she serves as executive producer.

In a recent interview with THR, ahead of the fall release of Priscilla, Coppola reveals that Elvis Presley Enterprises denied her request to use the King's music in the movie. While this posed a challenge, the director made unconventional filmmaking decisions. The film incorporates anachronistic music, with Phoenix making significant contributions to the soundtrack, along with a song from the Ramones. Here is Coppola's comment:

“They don’t like projects that they haven’t originated, and they’re protective of their brand. But that made us be more creative.”

Will No Elvis Music Hurt Priscilla?

It will be intriguing to determine whether a movie about the lives of Elvis and Priscilla can thrive without the influence and impact of Elvis' illustrious music career. Those who have a fascination for movies depicting Elvis might also anticipate the inclusion of his music, making it unexpected and possibly unsatisfying if none of it is featured in the film.

That being said, according to Coppola, this may actually be seen as a positive aspect. The absence of any classic Elvis songs could instantly create a distinct atmosphere for the film, setting it apart from the popular biopic directed by Baz Luhrmann. Previous period movies, such as Django Unchained, The Great Gatsby, and A Knight's Tale, have successfully used anachronistic music to make a notable impact, making them stand out from similar projects.

The reception of Cailee Spaeny's performance as Priscilla and Jacob Elordi's portrayal of Elvis by both audiences and critics is yet to be determined, but the incorporation of anachronistic music for thematic or tonal purposes could give Coppola's film a timeless quality. The controversial Priscilla trailer has already hinted at Coppola's innovative use of music, and, so far, it doesn't seem to be a significant concern.

Source: THR