Priscilla (203) Romance Movie Review
Sofia Coppola, known for her personal filmmaking style, consistently explores the theme of captivity and isolation in her work. Her movies often depict characters held captive in metaphorical gilded cages. In her latest film, "Priscilla," the cage seeking a bird represents Elvis Presley, who famously met Priscilla Beaulieu in 1959 while stationed in Germany during his U.S. Army service. Priscilla, just 14 at the time, was the daughter of another officer stationed there.
Coppola's film, based on Priscilla Presley's memoir "Elvis and Me," provides a unique perspective on their relationship. While contemporary views may criticize Presley's courting as inappropriate, the film portrays Priscilla's youthful perception of the shy superstar's attention as exhilarating.
%20Romance%20Movie.jpg "Priscilla (203) Romance Movie")
Working closely with cinematographer Philipe Le Sourd and editor Sarah Flack, Coppola crafts a visually stunning world of serene surfaces. The film depicts Priscilla's life in Germany, reading fan magazines in her room, and later in Graceland, where she navigates the challenge of not being seen on the lawn too often. The scenes in the living rooms and dens, which become tackier after her divorce from Presley in 1973, capture moments of Priscilla unsure of what to do with herself.
The storyline also delves into Presley's film career mismanagement by Colonel Tom Parker, never seen in the film. As Presley moves from Memphis to Los Angeles, he instructs Priscilla to "keep the home fires burning." The film captures these dynamics against the backdrop of a dreamy, distracted girl from Austin, Texas, far from home, finding excitement in the attention of a superstar.
Why is Priscilla with Elvis when he refuses to be intimate despite their separation from her family? Their early relationship seems innocent, with Elvis expressing loneliness after his mom's death. They're both dreamers, he aspiring to emulate Brando and Dean, she just wanting to be with him. Only one's dreams come true, and it's not enough.
Caillee Spaeney's superb acting as a 14-year-old is impressive; you almost doubt she'll age convincingly. Jacob Elordi, as Elvis, contrasts sharply. He's soft-spoken but prone to bursts of anger, relying on meds. The film delves into Presley's quirks, including a Bible-study phase and LSD experimentation. Even amid rumors of affairs, he keeps Priscilla chaste until marriage, then quickly makes her pregnant.
While Priscilla's unfulfilled desire is evident, the film skips the wedding night's consummation. It's unclear if Coppola's being vague or discreet, perhaps influenced by Priscilla Presley's involvement. The movie concludes with Elvis trapped by fame, becoming a captive himself. In a poignant ending, his tragedy becomes Priscilla's liberation, offering a haunting resolution.