Sofia Coppola's latest film, “Priscilla,” premiered at the Venice Film Festival, shedding light on the intricate love affair between Priscilla Presley and Elvis Presley.
The movie vividly portrays their enduring romance, with Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi embodying the iconic couple.
One of the most striking revelations is that Elvis and Priscilla first crossed paths at a party near a military base, where he was 24 and she was merely 14.
During a recent press event discussing the film, Presley shared insights into their relationship, emphasizing that Elvis showed profound respect for her tender age and didn't rush into a physical connection.
Contrary to common assumptions, Priscilla clarified, “It wasn't about s=x… absolutely not.
We never engaged in that.
He was gentle, caring, but above all, he honored the fact that I was just 14 years old.
Our bond was more mental and emotional.”
According to Priscilla's memoir, “Elvis and Me,” which inspired the movie, Elvis was already a global sensation when he served in the Army in West Germany.
It was there that he encountered Priscilla Beaulieu, the teenage daughter of an Air Force officer.
Reflecting on their early days, Presley remarked, “My parents found it hard to fathom why Elvis took an interest in me.
I believe it's because I was a good listener.
In Germany, Elvis confided in me about his deepest fears, dreams, and the perpetual sorrow of losing his mother.
I was the one who listened and comforted him, forming a deep connection with him.
Despite my young age, I had a mature outlook on life, and that intrigued him.”
Priscilla also touched upon the clandestine nature of their romance, which remained concealed until their impromptu nuptials in Las Vegas in 1967 when she was 21.
She explained, “I earned Elvis's trust by keeping our relationship under wraps.
I never revealed our affair to anyone, not even at school.
This discretion strengthened our bond, which endured until my departure.”
After the birth of their daughter, Lisa Marie, in 1968 and subsequent separation in 1972, Priscilla opened up about the challenges they faced.
Despite her deep affection for Elvis, she confessed that the demanding lifestyle took its toll on their relationship.
She expressed, “He was the love of my life.
Our parting was not due to lack of love but the complexities of our lifestyle, which many women can understand.”
In contrast to the acclaimed film “Elvis” by Baz Luhrmann, which garnered critical acclaim and numerous Oscar nominations, “Priscilla” solely focuses on portraying the story from the perspective of Elvis's former wife.
Overwhelmed with emotion while watching the movie, Presley commended Sofia Coppola for her meticulous work.
She disclosed, “It's surreal to witness a film recounting your life and love story.
Sofia truly delved deep into my experiences.
We had meaningful conversations, and I shared everything I could with her.”
A24's “Priscilla” is set to hit theaters on October 27, offering audiences a glimpse into the enigmatic relationship between Priscilla Presley and the legendary Elvis Presley.
