The release of Sofia Coppola’s new film, “Priscilla”, on January 3, 2024, is likely to cause a lot of ink to flow. Adapted from the biography “Elvis and I” by Priscilla Beaulieu, this feature film lifts the veil on the hidden side of the relationship between young Priscilla and the rock’n’roll legend.
Elvis Presley and his wife: A controversial subject
By drawing direct inspiration from autobiographical story by Priscilla Presley on her life with Elvis, Sofia Coppola signs a film that is both intimate and controversial. The feature film recounts the meeting of Priscilla, then a teenager, with the global star that Elvis was already at that time.
Narration focuses on Priscilla’s point of view, describing his life alongside Elvis Presley. The film notably explores his first romantic and sexual experience with a rock icon, quickly becoming a toxic and controlling relationship. This sulfurous subject will undoubtedly fascinate the public, always fond of news from cinema, music and even pop culture when it comes to a figure as legendary as Elvis Presley.
A bold staging
Sofia Coppola opts for an unconventional approach, avoiding the usual clichés to offer a fresh look at this tumultuous romance. The scenario plays down the couple’s relationship, presenting it in a more nuanced light.
The production is praised for its proximity to Priscilla Presley’s story, notably the use of a pastel aesthetic evoking the kitsch universe of Graceland. Cailee Spaeny’s performance in the role of young Priscilla is also acclaimed.
Shared criticism
If the press mainly welcomes the treatment of the subject, highlighting the talent of Sofia Coppola, the reviews are more mixed among the spectators. Some people criticize the film for its lack of audacity and its sanitized character.
Others regret that the feature film does not sufficiently exploit the richness of the subject, resulting in a hollow rendering despite undeniable qualities of staging and interpretation.
THE latest cinema news will certainly relay these shared opinions, fueling the debate around this film which clearly leaves no one indifferent.
Whether we like it or not, Priscilla is already shaping up to be one of the notable films of 2024, if only because of the controversy it is sure to arouse. Sofia Coppola has once again created a very personal film, offering a unique look at a controversial romance that continues to fascinate the public.
My name is Michael. I am a journalist for this magazine where I analyze and break down current events in order to provide you with articles that will allow you to have as nuanced and fair an understanding of global issues as possible. Passionate about creating bridges between stories and people, I joined this site to practice interactive journalism, where each article is an open dialogue with the reader.
