Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla chronicles the complex relationship between Priscilla Presley and Elvis Presley, ending with Priscilla asking for a divorce. The film stars Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla and Jacob Elordi as Elvis. Throughout the story, their bond becomes increasingly strained, highlighting Priscilla’s isolation at Graceland and Elvis’ frequent absences due to tours and performances. After the birth of their daughter, Lisa Marie, their marital intimacy falters, fueled by rumors of Elvis’ affairs.
Elvis’ constant touring and performances in Las Vegas put further pressure on their marriage. Priscilla felt emotionally and physically unfulfilled, realizing that they were leading separate lives. The persistent rumors of Elvis’ infidelity prompted Priscilla to confront him, ultimately deciding to end their marriage. Their separation was amicable, with Priscilla pursuing independence while Elvis continued his career.
Elvis’ Control and Purity Beliefs Shaped Priscilla Presley’s Early Graceland Experience
Priscilla met Elvis at age 14 and moved to Graceland during her senior year of high school. Elvis refused to have sex with her before marriage, seeing her as “pure” and believing intimacy should be reserved for marriage. Despite other forms of intimacy, Priscilla’s frustration grew as Elvis’ perspective, shaped by purity culture and their age difference, prevented her from consummating their relationship.
Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla Presley (Priscilla/A24)Elvis’ desire to keep Priscilla confined at Graceland stemmed from both public scrutiny and control over their relationship. By isolating her, he limited her awareness of his affairs and maintained influence over her appearance and lifestyle. Priscilla has described herself as Elvis’ “living doll,” reflecting the level of control he exerted over her clothing, makeup, and personal choices.
Prescription Drugs and Personal Growth Shaped Priscilla Presley’s Journey Toward Independence and Empowerment
The relationship involved the use of prescription drugs, which affected Priscilla’s well-being. Elvis provided her with Placidyl, a sedative that could be addictive, sometimes causing her to sleep for days. She also took amphetamines to stay awake during long nights with Elvis. This aspect of their life underscores the unhealthy and controlling dynamics that shaped Priscilla’s experience during her time with him.
The film’s climax depicts Priscilla asserting her independence. Confronting Elvis about divorce, she declares her desire for a life of her own, highlighting her growth and empowerment. This moment represents her first major step away from a life overshadowed by Elvis’ control, allowing her to define her identity outside the marriage and escape the loneliness and restrictions she endured.
After their divorce in 1973, Priscilla built a successful life independently. She lived with Mike Stone briefly, opened a clothing store, and later transformed Graceland into a tourist attraction. She pursued acting, appearing in The Naked Gun films and Dallas, and produced projects such as Finding Graceland and Agent Elvis. She also raised Lisa Marie Presley and maintained a long-term relationship with Marco Antonio Garcia, with whom she had a son, Navarone Garibaldi.
