Renowned director Sofia Coppola consistently explores themes of confinement and solitude in her cinematic pursuits. In “Priscilla”, the cage’s metaphorical occupant is Elvis Presley.
Elvis met Priscilla Beaulieu in 1959 while serving in the U.S. Army in Germany. With Priscilla being just 14, their meeting was controversial. Based on Priscilla Presley’s memoir, "Elvis and Me", Coppola's film offers Priscilla’s viewpoint. Current discussions about their relationship often highlight its inappropriate nature, especially considering their age difference. Yet, for a young Priscilla from Austin, Texas, being noticed by such an iconic figure was a whirlwind.
Crafting a visually alluring narrative alongside cinematographer Philipe Le Sourd and editor Sarah Flack, Coppola paints a world of still beauty. Scenes depict Priscilla engrossed in fan magazines or navigating the opulence of Graceland, often appearing lost or unsure of her role. Meanwhile, Elvis frequently departs for Los Angeles, leaving Priscilla in Memphis.
The film raises the question: what role does Priscilla play in Elvis's life? Even after relocating her, separating her from family, Elvis remains distant, declining her advances for a more intimate relationship. Their initial interactions portray two naive individuals. Elvis, grieving his mother’s passing, seeks genuine companionship, and Priscilla becomes captivated by his dreams and aspirations.
Their relationship dynamics are beautifully captured by the performances of Caillee Spaeney as Priscilla and Jacob Elordi as Elvis. Spaeney's portrayal of Priscilla is captivating, transitioning from a young teen to a mature woman, while Elordi’s Elvis character captures the singer's internal conflicts and growing dependence on prescription medications. The film doesn't shy away from depicting some of Elvis's eccentricities, including his spiritual endeavors and experimentation with LSD.
Interestingly, despite the emphasis on Priscilla’s longing, the film omits depicting the consummation of their marriage. One could speculate that the exclusion might be due to Priscilla Presley's involvement as an executive producer. However, the exact reasoning remains speculative.
In the end, the narrative unfolds to showcase how Elvis, trapped by his stardom, becomes as confined as Priscilla once felt. Viewers witness a behind-the-scenes perspective of his Las Vegas shows, emphasizing the suffocating nature of fame. Priscilla's emancipation contrasts with Elvis's entrapment, and Coppola's storytelling culminates in a simultaneously touching and eerie finale.
