The Presley’s: Sofia Coppola in an interview ‘I wanted to tell Priscilla and Elvis Presley’s love story without judgement’

Sofia Coppola discusses her latest film, “Priscilla,” in an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times. The movie is an adaptation of the memoir by Priscilla Presley, wife of Elvis Presley, adding another layer to Coppola’s exploration of coming-of-age stories and the complexities of girlhood.

Coppola explains her decision to adapt Priscilla’s memoir after 38 years, highlighting the relatability and unique experiences of a woman growing up in an unusual setting. The interview touches on Coppola’s approach to the adaptation, emphasizing Priscilla’s perspective and piecing together her feelings over the years.

When questioned about the age gap between Priscilla, who was 14, and Elvis, 24, Coppola clarifies that she aimed to tell the story without judgment, allowing the audience to form their conclusions. The interview delves into Priscilla’s unique journey, balancing the light and dark sides of her experiences, and portraying her as a person with agency rather than a victim.

Reflecting on the changes in challenges faced by teenage girls from Priscilla’s generation to the present day, Coppola acknowledges both progress and continuity. She highlights the evolving roles of women, drawing parallels between her daughters’ generation and her mother’s, while emphasizing the enduring impact of societal expectations on women.

The interview also touches on Coppola’s distinctive storytelling style, characterized by atmospheric depictions of inner turmoil rather than explicit dialogue. She explores the emotional aspects of characters, letting actions speak louder than words and embracing the power of what remains unsaid.

Despite being a seasoned filmmaker with 25 years of experience, Sofia Coppola expresses her ongoing fascination with the filmmaking process. She discusses the learning experiences during the production of “Priscilla,” particularly the challenge of building sets for the first time. Coppola emphasizes the magic of movies and the surprises that come with bringing diverse elements together to create a cinematic experience.

“Priscilla” is currently playing in Indian cinemas and will soon premiere on MUBI.