Cailee Spaeny showcases a beautiful performance in the long overdue film “Priscilla”
Written by Katelyn Myrick. Photo by Katelyn Myrick.
The name Elvis Presley rings recognition in almost everyone’s mind, and that might be true for Priscilla Presley as well, but we all know her as Elvis’ wife. The film “Priscilla,” directed by Sofia Coppola and produced and written by women, tells the story of Priscilla Presley and her marriage with Elvis behind all the glitz and glam.
Based on Priscilla Presley’s 1985 memoir, this film shows the ugly truth behind their marriage. Cailee Spaeny, who plays Priscilla, portrays her with grace and maturity as Priscilla grows and ages throughout the film, showcasing her range and pure talent. These traits are what made her the perfect recipient of the Breakthrough Award at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival. This award is given to actors and actresses who have come a long way in their careers in a short amount of time.
In the Q&A after the film premiere, Spaeny explained how she got the role. One day, she received a call from director Sofia Coppola and a recommendation from actress Kristen Dunst. To be successful in this role, she worked closely with Coppola and Priscilla Presley herself. In fact, she had an in-depth conversation with Presley about the role and how she wanted to be portrayed, Her most important request was to show the love she and Elvis had. This request came forward on the screen, along with all the negative sides of their relationship.
Spaeny also discussed the trust and relationship she built with Jacob Elordi who played Elvis. To get familiar with their roles and build a strong connection, they went on activities that Elvis and Priscilla Presley used to do together, such as horseback riding. Spaeny also discussed the many costume changes (120) in this film and said that they played an essential role in helping her express Priscilla Presley’s mindset as she got older. The film covers a time range from 1959 to 1973 and Priscilla Presley’s age ranges from 14 to 28. The wardrobe, hair and makeup changed often and dramatically, showing not only the progression of time but also the progression in her confidence.
“Priscilla” is a beautifully filmed story of a young girl’s isolated and troubled life with one of the most recognizable names in music history. Spaeny plays Priscilla in a way that makes audience members who have experienced similar situations feel seen and heard.
