Priscilla (2023) - Mini-Review
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© Sabrina Lantos
Directed by: Sofia Coppola
Written by: Sofia Coppola
Starring: Cailee Spaeny, Jacob Elordi
Runtime: 113 min
Synopsis: When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley at a party, the man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a vulnerable best friend.
© Sabrina Lantos
Priscilla manages to carve out its own space within the biopic landscape, offering a narrative that, while engaging, occasionally falls into the familiar traps of the genre. Based on Priscilla Presley's own book, Elvis and Me, Sofia Coppola's adaptation grapples with an inherent personal bias, shaping a story that, though not entirely free from Hollywood dramatizations, succeeds in presenting a more personal perspective.
Cailee Spaeny's (How it Ends) portrayal of the eponymous character stands out as a career-defining performance, showcasing her remarkable talent and paving the way for a promising future in the industry. Her nuanced, expressive interpretation of the complex protagonist is a testament to her acting prowess. Spaeny deftly navigates the challenges of portraying a woman entangled in a toxic relationship with the iconic figure of Elvis, portrayed equally convincingly by Jacob Elordi (Euphoria).
The actress brings depth to a character whose freedom and personal growth are stifled by the dual pressures of love and fame. Priscilla skillfully portrays the protagonist's struggles, depicting moments of frustration and captivity within the confines of their home, particularly when Elvis is embroiled in affairs across the globe. The toxic dynamics of the relationship are depicted with sensitivity, even if the film doesn't shy away from exploring the emotional toll of a partnership where desires go unfulfilled and the quest for personal identity is overshadowed by the larger-than-life presence of a celebrity spouse.
Technically proficient, favoring a straightforward approach that places the characters at the forefront. The costume design and makeup & hairstyling teams deserve commendation for their impressive work, likely to receive recognition during awards season.
Despite these strengths, Priscilla tends to fall into a repetitive cycle of events, which somewhat raises questions about the accuracy of its portrayal of real-life events. While this could potentially create a sense of monotony, the one-gear pace ensures a consistent viewing experience, even if it doesn't allow for significant highs or lows.
Final Thoughts
Priscilla navigates the familiar territory of biographical storytelling, offering a nuanced exploration of Priscilla Presley's life. Cailee Spaeny's career-best performance skillfully delves into the complexities of a toxic relationship with Jacob Elordi's also convincing portrayal of Elvis. Sofia Coppola authentically captures Priscilla's struggles with love and fame, though it occasionally falls into a repetitive narrative. Still, in the end, Spaeny's compelling portrayal elevates the film so much that I definitely recommend it for fans of the genre and/or subject matter.
