Written by Zoe Crombie

Sometimes, often unintentionally, two films will come out within a relatively short span that speak on exactly the same topic. This phenomenon, dubbed ‘twin films’, can be traced back as early as 1913 with the dual releases of adaptations of Ivanhoe, and can be seen in more modern releases like The Truman Show and Ed TV,  or Portrait of a Lady on Fire and Ammonite. Rarely, though, do they present opposite sides of the same coin with regard to their content, as is the case with Elvis and Priscilla.

Directed by the legendary Sofia Coppola, dynastic visionary behind The Virgin Suicides and Marie Antoinette, Priscilla is a much less flashy affair than Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 film, more interested in the psychology of the pair than the glamour of the King. Following them throughout the course of their relationship, the film probes some uncomfortable areas, from their questionable age gap to Elvis’ relentless control of his young wife. This complexity is enhanced by the brilliant performances of newcomer Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, who easily gives Austin Butler a run for his money.

If you felt as though Priscilla deserved more of an exploration in Elvis, this is the film for you - an intelligent, often brutally honest account of her experiences that challenge the star whose shadow she has lived in for over half a century.

Priscilla is on from the 19th - 25th January
Tickets & Showtimes: https://dukeslancaster.org/wha...