Sofia Coppola’s latest film, “Priscilla,” offers a nuanced exploration of the legendary romance between Priscilla and Elvis Presley, challenging the conventional narrative of a love story filled with fireworks. Cinematographer Philippe Le Sourd sheds light on the director’s vision for an intimate portrayal of Priscilla’s perspective within the relationship.
Le Sourd reveals that Coppola deliberately sought intimacy in her storytelling, a departure from the grandeur often associated with tales of iconic figures. The film, featuring Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi as the famous couple who first crossed paths in Germany when Priscilla was just 14, unfolds with a careful attention to emotional intricacies.
The cinematographer emphasizes the deliberate use of color to evoke the essence of different periods and locations in the narrative. Europe is depicted in muted grays, while the American backdrop bursts forth in a kaleidoscope of pastels. This strategic visual approach serves to underline the emotional nuances of Priscilla’s journey alongside Elvis.
Le Sourd’s framing choices play a pivotal role in conveying Priscilla’s emotional states, establishing a subjective connection between the audience and her character. The cinematographer discloses Coppola’s focused direction, where the camera predominantly lingers on Cailee Spaeny, with minimal attention given to Jacob Elordi. This intentional imbalance underscores Coppola’s commitment to delving into Priscilla’s perspective.
To emphasize this viewpoint, Le Sourd adopted specific framing techniques, stating, “Another decision was to frame Jacob from the back. It’s a minor decision but a strong decision about the film. It’s more about her than him.” This deliberate framing choice serves as a visual metaphor, further solidifying the film’s narrative commitment to Priscilla’s experiences and emotions.
In essence, “Priscilla” emerges as a cinematic reimagining that goes beyond the surface of an iconic love story, inviting audiences to witness the narrative through a fresh and intimate lens. Coppola’s deliberate choices in color, framing, and narrative focus contribute to a compelling exploration of the complexities inherent in the relationship between Priscilla and Elvis Presley.
