Priscilla marks a new age of film

Priscilla, a film released in November of 2023, is a vast look into Priscilla Beaulieu's whirlwind relationship with Elvis Presley in the 1960s and 70s. The film is an adaptation of Priscilla Beaulieu Presley's memoir Elvis and Me. The film focuses on Beaulieu through her girlhood when she is first introduced to Presley and his exotic lifestyle full of partying and rock'n roll. The film's director, Sofia Coppola, perfectly encapsulates the rush of emotions that Beaulieu, as a young girl, must have felt after being discovered by "The King."

The attention to detail in the film is mesmerizing. Beaulieu's story takes place in the early '60s, and as to be expected, there are no indications of the modern day. The attention to the clothing styling is majorly captivating. The detail in the costume design leaves the viewer with the urge to dress with a little vintage flare and embrace the '60s. With details like a dainty, gold locket Beaulieu wore true to the time and Presley's iconic style, the film feels very authentic. The set design holds the same authenticity as the costumes. Though the film was not filmed in Memphis, the viewer would never know that based on the immense detail put into the film's version of Graceland. It is obvious watching the film that no detail, big or small, was excluded.

The cinematography of the film is not spared. Coppola used the camera to convey all emotions, good and bad, using different lighting techniques and camera angles. The film's cinematography enhances Beaulieu's story by focusing on her point of view. The atmosphere feels very innocent and authentic from her perspective, as she was 14 when she first met Presley. Coppola is known for scenes where the camera lingers on otherwise very mundane shots. This technique is used throughout the film and helps beautifully capture the day-to-day life of Beaulieu.

The film transports the viewer to 1960s Graceland using a beautifully curated soundtrack, featuring hits like "Crimson and Clover" by Tommy James and The Shondells and Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You." It's important to note the lack of Presley's music in the film. This was completely purposeful, as the story is about Priscilla and not Elvis. Elements such as the music make the story feel very real and true to time. The music aids the storytelling by mirroring the tone as it evolves throughout the film.

This true story is by no means sugar-coated and this is better displayed by the incredibly talented actors. Cailee Spaeny portrays Priscilla and Jacob Elori, Elvis. The chemistry between the characters effortlessly examines the maturity contrast between Beaulieu and Presley. This is completed not only by their contrasting mental maturity but also by their realistic portrayal of the couple's distinct appearances. The height difference between the two is not only physically realistic of the Presleys but also illustrates the isolation Beaulieu felt during the relationship. Spaeny and Elori's embodiment of the characters gives an unmatched realistic feel to the film.

If a deep dive into a unique perspective of rock'n roll history is of any intrigue to you, Priscilla is the film to check out. The film is currently streaming on HBO Max. I would personally rate the movie a five out of five. The collection of scenes was so beautifully put together. I highly recommend watching this film to gain an important insight on Priscilla Beaulieu's personal story.

Review by Kate Militello