Priscilla’s Memoir Comes to Life
The Venice International Film Festival witnessed a touching moment when Priscilla Presley, the former wife of legendary musician Elvis Presley, expressed her emotions after viewing the film adaptation of her 1985 memoir, Elvis and Me. The film, titled Priscilla, directed by the acclaimed Sofia Coppola, dives deep into the intimate life of the couple and the unique bond they shared.
During the premiere on Monday, September 4, Presley was seen in the audience, absorbing the cinematic representation of her life. Unexpectedly, she took the initiative to comment on her experience, stating, “It’s very difficult to sit and watch a film about you, about your life, about your love.” With visible emotion, she added, “[Director] Sofia [Coppola] did an amazing job. She did her homework, we spoke a couple of times and I really put everything out for her that I could.”
The Real Essence of Elvis and Priscilla’s Relationship
Elvis and Priscilla’s relationship has always been a subject of intrigue. Meeting at a tender age of 14, while Elvis was a decade older, their bond was often misunderstood. Clarifying the misconceptions, Presley passionately shared, “It was very difficult for my parents to understand…Elvis would pour his heart out to me in every way in Germany: his fears, his hopes, the loss of his mother… That was really our connection.”
Furthermore, she emphasized the genuine connection they shared, “Even though I was 14, I was actually a little bit older in life — not in numbers. That was the attraction. People think, ‘Oh, it was sex.’ No, it wasn’t.”
Coppola’s Take and The Cast’s Contribution
Director Sofia Coppola, known for her impeccable storytelling, gave her insights into the film and said, “I can go back to being that age and remember having a crush on an older guy and a rock star. I just imagined myself in her point of view.” The film sees Cailee Spaeny stepping into the shoes of Priscilla, with Jacob Elordi portraying the role of Elvis.
This biopic is the second representation of Elvis’ life within two years. Another film starring Austin Butler as Elvis received approval from Priscilla, who expressed her admiration for Butler’s performance, emphasizing the gravity of portraying such a prominent figure.
A Tribute to Lisa Marie Presley
The premiere also held significance as it was shadowed by the tragic loss of Lisa Marie Presley, Priscilla and Elvis’ only child. Priscilla reflected on the heart-wrenching moment by saying, “It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us.”
The subsequent months following Lisa’s passing saw speculations around the estate and its handling. Addressing the rumors of discord between Priscilla and her granddaughter, Riley Keough, Presley clarified their relationship stating, “Riley and I are on good terms. We were never not on good terms.” Keough herself opened up about the complexities they faced, acknowledging the blend of personal and business affairs that needed addressing.
The film’s premiere was not just a celebration of Priscilla’s life and her relationship with Elvis, but also a reminder of the complex tapestry of relationships, legacy, and the intricate dance between personal and public life that many celebrities navigate.
Source: usmagazine
