Movie Review: “Priscilla” Presley Was Caught in a Trap
Sofia Coppola, the master of exploring the isolation that accompanies fame, returns with her newest film "Priscilla," a stealthily devastating take on the Elvis Presley story.
Through the eyes of a young Priscilla Presley (played sensitively by Cailee Spaeny), the audience is drawn into the tumultuous and unequal relationship with the King of Rock and Roll (played by Jacob Elordi). Coppola, who wrote and directed the film, captures the singer's power and dominance over Priscilla, as well as the damaging effects of fame on personal relationships.
Die-hard Elvis fans will no doubt call some of the characterization in “Priscilla” slander, but part of the achievement here is that Elvis is not simply a monster. Fame has merely given him the superpower of not having to pay attention to anyone else.
From the start, the movie puts viewers in Priscilla's shoes, as we witness her being recruited by Elvis's friend to attend a party at his house.
Being only 14 years old, Priscilla is completely in awe of the singer and agrees to meet him again. As their relationship progresses, it becomes clear that Elvis is in control, dictating when Priscilla can come and go, flaunting his knowledge and imposing strict rules on their relationship.
Actor Jacob Elordi, writer/director Sofia Coppola, and actress Cailee Spaeny.
Using anachronistic music, including the Ramones and Dolly Parton, Coppola brilliantly emphasizes the timelessness of the story and the damaging effects of fame on personal relationships.
As Elvis and Priscilla's relationship progresses, we see her become more isolated and suffocated by his entourage. Even when she becomes pregnant, Elvis's focus remains on himself, leaving her alone with only a dog for company.
Coppola's decision to not include any Elvis songs in the film brings his behavior to the forefront, without the distraction of his musical talent. This also allows the film to stay true to Coppola's aesthetic, free from the constraints of a conventional biopic.
Priscilla Presley now and at her Las Vegas wedding to Elvis in 1967.
While some die-hard fans may find fault with the characterization of Elvis in "Priscilla," Coppola's portrayal of him as a self-absorbed and controlling figure is well-supported by the source material. It is through this lens that we see him as a product of his own fame, lacking the ability to truly connect with others.
Overall, "Priscilla" is a beautifully crafted and thought-provoking film that delves into the dark side of fame and the damaging effects it can have on personal relationships. With a stellar cast, including breakout star Cailee Spaeny, Coppola once again proves her talent for exploring the complexities of human nature and of unescapable trap of super stardom where nothing is denied, and no one says no.