By Julia Welter
Sofia Coppola’s “Priscilla,” released in theaters on November 3, is based on Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir, “Elvis and Me. ” The film reexamines the story of Elvis Presley from the perspective of his wife, whom he met when she was 14 years old, and he was already a rock ‘n’ roll superstar.
My friends and I saw this movie at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas in Dobbs Ferry on November 9. Although we all came in not knowing anything about Priscilla or very much about Elvis, it was an excellent experience for all of us.
That being said, “Priscilla” is not a movie for everyone. Although the film was uncomfortable at times, Sofie Coppola beautifully and tragically told the story of Elvis and Priscilla’s relationship. Heartfelt performances from both leads- Jacob Elordi (playing Elvis), who many of us know and love from “The Kissing Booth,” and Cailee Spaeny (playing Priscilla)- complemented the exceptional direction, which incorporated fantastic color choices and music, effectively capturing both characters’ emotions, personalities, and individual journeys as they traversed together.
After watching the movie, I looked up Priscilla Presley because I was curious to see if the actress playing her looked like her. I was shocked at how well “Priscilla” captured Priscilla’s iconic look. The movie accurately portrayed Priscilla’s looks as an innocent young teen and later in her life, after Elvis altered her appearance by telling her to dye her hair jet black and wear dramatic eye makeup and a beehive hairstyle.
Although I never saw the movie “Elvis,” getting to know Priscilla’s perspective, her story, and her truth from the day she met Elvis to the day she left him was interesting. The movie showed both the good and the bad of Priscilla and Elvis’ relationship. Priscilla is a must-see for all young women.
