A “captivating” biopic, which has received critical acclaim, has dropped on to Netflix.
Priscilla, released in 2023, is a biographical drama film written, directed, and produced by Sofia Coppola. It is based on the 1985 memoir Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley (who serves as an executive producer on the picture) and Sandra Harmon. It follows the life of Priscilla (Cailee Spaeny) and her complicated romantic relationship with Elvis Presley (Jacob Elordi). Priscilla premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival, where Spaeny won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress. In addition to her award from Venice, Spaeny received a Best Actress nomination at the Golden Globe Awards for her performance.
The film’s synopsis reads: “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. Through Priscilla’s eyes, Sofia Coppola tells the unseen side of a great American myth in Elvis and Priscilla’s long courtship and turbulent marriage, from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland, in this deeply felt and ravishingly detailed portrait of love, fantasy, and fame.”
Priscilla has received positive reviews from the critics, and its 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes reflects that. The critics’ consensus states: “With Cailee Spaeny’s performance in the title role leading the way, Priscilla sees Sofia Coppola taking a tender yet clear-eyed look at the often toxic blend created by mixing first love and fame.”
One audience reviewer said: “A fascinating insight into the life of a very well-loved superstar, and a timid young girl. Everything, from the direction to the acting and to the costumes, was executed with perfection and elegance. Cailee Spaeny’s performance was outstanding, and her articulation her body language to say something without needing her voice was truly captivating. Jacob Elordi perfectly delivered the environment needed for Elvis Presley, the watcher being disgusted by his actions, but still enamoured by his charm and charisma. No notes. Sofia Coppola, you did it again.”
Another regretted not going to see the film on its release: “So mad that I didn’t get to see this masterpiece in theatre.”
“A really well-done biopic about Priscilla. Truly shows how, even in a house full of people, she was still lonely. Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordy work really we as Elvis and Priscilla, especially with the height difference. The music complements the film really well, even without any Elvis songs. One I will rewatch over and over again.”
Priscilla is available to stream now on Netflix.