“Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’ Receives a Seven-Minute Standing Ovation in Venice, Prompting Emotional Reactions from Stars, Including Priscilla Presley”

“Priscilla,” one of the most highly anticipated films at this year’s Venice Film Festival, made its world premiere in the competition category on the picturesque Lido. The audience’s response was nothing short of ecstatic, with a thunderous standing ovation lasting an impressive seven minutes and thirty seconds. This heartfelt applause was not only directed at the talented filmmaker Sofia Coppola but also extended to the young stars, Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, as well as the inspirational figure herself, Priscilla Presley.

Thanks to a last-minute agreement that came together just days before the festival, director Coppola and the film’s stars, Cailee Spaeny and Jacob Elordi, had the opportunity to grace the premiere alongside the iconic Priscilla Presley. The biopic, at its core, delves into Priscilla’s extraordinary relationship with Elvis Presley, a connection that began when she was just a 14-year-old girl.

Amidst the standing ovation, the cast and Priscilla Presley herself found it challenging to hold back their tears, overwhelmed by the emotional magnitude of the moment and the warm reception from the audience.

Earlier in the day, during the film’s press conference, Priscilla openly shared her feelings about watching the movie. She confessed that it had been a poignant experience, saying, “It’s incredibly difficult to watch a film that delves into your life, your love, and your journey.” She praised Sofia Coppola’s exceptional work on the project, highlighting the depth of research that went into it and her own willingness to share her story.

Priscilla also candidly discussed her relationship with Elvis, often pausing to wipe away tears as she spoke. She revealed, “Elvis would bear his soul to me. He confided his hopes, fears, and the profound loss of his mother. I was the one who sat there, listening and offering comfort. That was the core of our connection. Despite my young age of 14, I felt older in terms of life experience. That was the attraction – it was about our shared thoughts and emotions. Contrary to what people may think, it wasn’t about physical intimacy; I never had that with him. He was gentle, kind, and loving, always respecting the fact that I was just 14. Our bond was more about our minds and souls.”

Written and directed by Sofia Coppola, “Priscilla” draws its inspiration from the 1985 memoir “Elvis and Me,” co-authored by Presley and Sandra Harmon. The film was produced by Lorenzo Mieli for The Apartment Pictures, a Fremantle Company, with Coppola representing American Zoetrope, and Youree Henley. It received financing from Fremantle Group. A24 will handle distribution in the United States, while Vision Distribution, a subsidiary of Sky, will handle distribution in Italy.