In a poignant press conference held in Venice just hours before the premiere of Sofia Coppola‘s latest film, “Priscilla,” Priscilla Presley fought back tears as she discussed her life and enduring relationship with the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley. The movie delves into the complexities of their bond, including their meeting when Priscilla was just 14 years old.
Reflecting on her early days with Elvis, Priscilla candidly shared, “It was very difficult for my parents to understand that Elvis would be so interested in me and why. I really do think it was because I was more of a listener. Elvis would pour his heart out to me in every way in Germany: his fears, his hopes, the loss of his mother, which he never ever got over. And I was the person who really sat there to listen and to comfort him. That was really our connection.”
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Contrary to popular misconceptions, Priscilla clarified, “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. I never had sex with him. He was very kind, very soft, very loving, but he also respected the fact I was only 14 years old. We were more in line in thought, and that was our relationship.”
Priscilla, now 78, emphasized that her decision to eventually part ways with Elvis was not due to a lack of love. She stated, “It wasn’t because I didn’t love him – he was the love of my life. It was the lifestyle that was so difficult for me … We had our daughter, and I made sure that he saw her all the time. It was like we never left each other. I want to make that clear.”
Opening up about her feelings towards the film itself, she admitted, “It was very difficult to watch a film about you and your life and about your love,” while expressing her appreciation for Sofia Coppola’s dedication and research. “And I really put everything out for her that I could,” Priscilla added.
“Priscilla” draws its inspiration from the 1985 memoir “Elvis and Me,” co-authored by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon. The story unfolds as a young Priscilla Beaulieu, portrayed by Cailee Spaeny, crosses paths with the 24-year-old Elvis, played by Jacob Elordi, during his army service in Germany.
The film boldly portrays Elvis’s grooming of Priscilla and his controlling behavior, a testament to its commitment to an honest portrayal of their relationship. Sofia Coppola explained her attraction to the project, saying, “I was so struck with how the setting is so unusual, but [Priscilla] goes through all of the things that all girls go through growing up into womanhood – her first kiss and becoming a mother – all of these moments I could relate to, but in this very unusual setting that we’re so curious to know.”
As the film promises to offer an intimate glimpse into the tumultuous love story between Priscilla and Elvis, audiences can expect a touching and thought-provoking exploration of their extraordinary relationship, set against the backdrop of Elvis’s legendary career. “Priscilla” is poised to be a must-watch film, capturing the essence of a love that transcended generations.