Sofia Coppola’s latest film, Priscilla, made its world premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival on Monday evening, and the initial response was nothing short of rousing. The audience, including Priscilla Presley herself, gave the biopic a resounding ovation that lasted an impressive 7 minutes and 45 seconds. The memoir-based movie, co-authored by Priscilla Presley, left an indelible impact on both the Venice press corps and the ticket holders in attendance at the Sala Grande.
A Heartwarming Presence
Priscilla Presley’s presence in the theater certainly added to the emotional experience of watching the film. As the post-screening applause continued to reverberate through the venue, Presley gracefully exited the theater. Sofia Coppola, well aware of the impact her film had on the audience, received plenty of hugs and accolades as she made her way out.
Priscilla boasts a talented cast, including Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi. The film has also been granted an interim agreement by SAG-AFTRA, the labor union representing actors and performers in the United States. This ensures that the talented actors involved in Priscilla are protected and fairly compensated for their outstanding performances.
Written and directed by Sofia Coppola, Priscilla delves into the lesser-known side of the great American myth that is Elvis Presley. The film examines the long courtship and turbulent marriage between Elvis and Priscilla Presley, offering Priscilla’s point of view on their relationship. From their initial meeting at a party, where a teenage Priscilla Beaulieu encounters the meteoric rock-and-roll superstar, to their time together on a German army base and eventually at Elvis’ dream-world estate, Graceland, Priscilla showcases the unseen aspects of their love story.
In an interview earlier today, Priscilla Presley expressed the difficulty of watching a film that delves so deeply into her personal life. She commended Sofia Coppola for her impeccable work and attention to detail, stating that the director truly did her homework. Priscilla revealed that she had shared everything she could with Coppola, and the outcome is a testament to their collaboration.
Priscilla is set to hit domestic theaters on October 27, and anticipation is high. The film has been acquired by A24 for distribution in the United States, ensuring a wide audience can experience the touching story of Elvis and Priscilla Presley. Additionally, Mubi has acquired rights to the film across multiple territories, including the UK, broadening its global reach.
Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla has undoubtedly made its mark at the Venice Film Festival with a captivating premiere and a standing ovation that resonated for nearly 8 minutes. The talented cast, combined with Coppola’s masterful storytelling, ensures that audiences will be taken on a deeply emotional journey through the untold side of Elvis Presley’s life and his iconic love story with Priscilla Presley. As the film prepares for its release in domestic theaters, fans of Coppola’s unique perspective and admirers of the Presleys’ enduring legacy eagerly await the opportunity to be moved by this poignant cinematic experience.