Baz Luhrmann's highly acclaimed Elvis Presley biopic made waves worldwide, but now it's Priscilla Presley's turn to captivate audiences. Sofia Coppola's film, "Priscilla," which she has written, directed, and produced, offers a fresh perspective on Elvis and Priscilla's love story. Drawing inspiration from Priscilla's memoir "Elvis and Me," the film unveils their complex relationship, as seen through her youthful lens. Set to premiere in November, this movie promises to be a compelling portrayal of their sometimes tumultuous romance.
The official synopsis from A24 describes how the teenage Priscilla Beaulieu's encounter with rock-and-roll superstar Elvis Presley at a party reveals a different side to him in private moments. He becomes not only a thrilling crush, but also a source of solace and a vulnerable best friend. Through Priscilla's perspective, Sofia Coppola explores the untold story of Elvis and Priscilla's courtship and turbulent marriage, taking us from a German army base to the iconic Graceland estate. This intimate and meticulously crafted portrayal delves into themes of love, fantasy, and fame. Sofia Coppola, renowned for her Academy Award-nominated work in films like Lost in Translation, The Virgin Suicides, and Marie Antoinette, was inspired to tell this story after being moved by Priscilla's memoir and finding a personal connection with its content.
She expressed a strong emotional connection to the content and was pleasantly surprised by how relatable the story was. Initially expecting a fun adventure, Sofia found herself drawn to themes of personal identity and the journey of teenage girls transitioning into adulthood. Growing up in a show business family, with her father being Francis Ford Coppola, Sofia related to the experience of coming of age in the shadow of a public figure. She understood the unique perspective of being constantly observed and judged due to her family background.
Keep scrolling for everything to know about the Priscilla biopic:
When Does ‘Priscilla’ Premiere?
While the biopic was initially set to hit theaters in October, it was pushed back to a November 3 release.
Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla Presley in ‘Priscilla.’ Sabrina Lantos
Who Is in the ‘Priscilla’ Cast?
Cailee Spaeny takes on the leading role of a young Priscilla Presley in the film, while Jacob Elordi depicts Elvis Presley. The movie also features Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll as Alan "Hog Ears" Fortas, Elvis' bodyguard and close friend, Emily Mitchell as Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of Priscilla and Elvis, Jorja Cadence as Patsy Presley, Elvis' cousin, Tim Post as Vernon Presley, Elvis' father, and Luke Humphrey as Terry West.
What Is the Plot of ‘Priscilla’?
The movie is based on Priscilla's memoir from 1985, titled Elvis and Me. It portrays the relationship and eventual marriage of Priscilla and Elvis, who first met when she was only 14. In an interview with Vogue in October 2022, Coppola disclosed that Elvis will have a minor role in the film, with his career being of little relevance to the story. The movie will primarily focus on Priscilla's perspective.
"I've had Priscilla's memoir for a while now, and I remember reading it a long time ago. Recently, a friend of mine brought her up in conversation, and we started discussing the book. I read it again and was deeply moved by Priscilla's story," she shared with the outlet. "Originally, I was supposed to embark on a daunting five-month project based on Edith Wharton's work. However, I encountered some obstacles and decided to shift gears and focus on making one film with a single concept."
She went on to express her fascination with Priscilla's narrative and her unique viewpoint on the experiences of adolescence within the bounds of Graceland. Priscilla's journey through the stages of becoming a young woman in an intensified environment mirrored that of Marie Antoinette.
Jacob Elordi as Elvis Presley and Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla Presley in ‘Priscilla.’ Ken Woroner
Is There a Trailer for ‘Priscilla’?
The movie's initial teaser, released in October, is only 45 seconds in duration. It showcases the early stages of Priscilla and Elvis' romance while providing glimpses into their marriage, pregnancy, and subsequent marital challenges.
Despite its brevity, the trailer boldly confronts the controversial age difference and underlying problems between the couple. One particular scene captures Elvis instructing Priscilla to change her appearance by dyeing her hair and applying more makeup to look older. After making the alterations, Priscilla expresses uncertainty, to which Elvis responds sharply, "What do you mean you don't like it?"
Jacob Elordi as Elvis Presley and Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla Presley in ‘Priscilla.’ Philippe Le Sourd
How Does Priscilla Presley Feel About the Film?
Priscilla addressed the audience after attending the premiere of the film at the Venice Film Festival in September. She expressed the challenge of watching a movie that revolves around her, her life, and her love. However, she commended Sofia's exceptional work, emphasizing her dedication in thoroughly researching the subject matter. Priscilla further revealed her willingness to extend her full support and cooperation to Sofia during the filmmaking process.During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in October, Priscilla mentioned that she made an effort to disconnect herself while watching the movie, almost as if she were simply a fan or spectator. Towards the end, she admitted that she became quite emotional. Being only 14 at the time, she reflected on her experience and questioned why she had the privilege of being there, riding in a limousine and entering Graceland with Elvis.