A critically acclaimed film that delves into the hidden loneliness and darker aspects of Elvis Presley's life is set to captivate audiences on BBC2 this evening. 'Priscilla', Sofia Coppola's 2023 biopic, offers a poignant look at the iconic star's relationship with his young wife from her perspective.
A Whirlwind Romance's Lonely Reality
The film charts the journey of Priscilla Beaulieu, beginning as a teenage girl in Germany who meets the music superstar. It explores their whirlwind romance, marriage, and eventual separation, but its core focus is on her profound isolation and coming-of-age. While depicting Elvis's initial allure, the narrative reveals the controlling nature and manipulative influence he wielded, set against a backdrop of his spiralling fame and drug use.
Upon its initial release, the film was met with significant critical praise. It received a lengthy standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival and holds an impressive score of 84 percent on the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. The performances, particularly Cailee Spaeny's portrayal of Priscilla and Jacob Elordi's take on Elvis, have been singled out for high acclaim.
Audience and Critical Acclaim
Fans have been deeply moved by the film's intimate and unsettling portrayal. One five-star review highlighted the mesmerising chemistry between the leads, while another noted how effectively it showed Priscilla's loneliness "even in a house full of people." Viewers praised the film's direction, costumes, and its ability to articulate complex emotions through body language and subtle performance.
A common thread in the feedback is the film's success in providing a refreshing and necessary new lens on one of history's most scrutinised celebrity couples. It unflinchingly shows the inappropriate and dysfunctional dynamics of their relationship, with Priscilla's youth and isolation making Elvis's manipulative behaviour feel "genuinely creepy and unsettling" to modern audiences.
Where and When to Watch
For those eager to see this compelling story, 'Priscilla' airs on Tuesday 6 January at 11pm on BBC2. The film stands as a powerful counterpoint to more traditional Elvis narratives, focusing on the human cost of fame and the quiet strength of the woman who lived in his shadow.
