Priscilla Movie 2023 Review, In Priscilla’s 1985 memoir, “Elvis and Me,” Sofia captures the strong love between her and Elvis Presley. They meet when she’s 14 and he’s 24, symbolizing rebellion and freedom for her, breaking free from her army upbringing. Despite concerns, Sofia ensures the story unfolds with fate and a young girl’s determination.
Priscilla Movie 2023 Review
Priscilla isn’t drawn to Elvis’ music or larger-than-life persona. Instead, she loves his small gestures and grand expressions of love, like asking her parents to let her move to his Graceland mansion. With cinematographer Philippe Le Sourd and editor Sarah Flack’s collaboration, Sofia weaves a potentially flawed fairy tale, casting shadows even in daylight.
Initially, fears of grooming fade as Priscilla moves in with Elvis. He doesn’t control her; he becomes an absent partner, leaving her alone for days during outdoor shoots. Like us, she discovers his affairs through gossip magazines. Despite his convincing denials, we can’t ignore the warning signs in front of her lovelorn eyes.
Priscilla Movie 2023 Review
Costume designer Stacey Battat dresses up Priscilla meticulously, emphasizing the cosmetic expectations women faced. Though Sofia couldn’t use Elvis’ music, Phoenix’s score echoes his melodies subtly, creating a haunting backdrop for Priscilla.
Cailee Portman nails her role, spending more time alone than with Elvis. She avoids a Kristen Stewart-style portrayal, yet her longing stares hint at a desire for a different life. Jacob Elordi, as Elvis, towers over the petite Priscilla physically but reveals vulnerability in intense moments, preventing him from becoming an oppressor.
Priscilla’s most powerful moment is her departure. After enduring physical and sexual encounters, she decides to leave with a mix of pain and pride. Driving away from Elvis’ mansion, Whitney Houston’s “I’ll Always Love You” underscores the heartbreak and soaring pride. Sofia Coppola adeptly portrays the love of young women from that era, valuing sacrifice but not at the expense of agency.