Priscilla ★★★

ITS hard to determine what to ultimately make of Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla.

It’s doubtless well made but, like most of her recent output, doesn’t reach the heights attained by her first three films – The Virgin Suicides in 1999, Lost in Translation and Marie Antoinette.

Some key observations.

There isn’t anything particular in the visuals or camera work that stands out.

It does capture the various time periods well through the set design, makeup and costuming.

It has a very good soundtrack that doesn’t include any versions of dongs by Elvis himself.

It’s based on Priscilla Presley’s book so naturally is told mostly from her point of view.

Elvis generally doesn’t come out of it well, often portrayed as a spoilt brat and, at worst, an abuser of a teenage girl.

The early relationship between Elvis and Priscilla is problematic and more than a little disturbing, particularly today.

A lot of the film comprises scenes just between Elvis and Priscilla so the audience is always immersed in her point of view.

Cailee Spaine and Jacob Elordi are very good in the lead roles and are always interesting to watch.

But, if you know the basics of their story – and who doesn’t – there isn’t much new here.

So, ultimately, it’s fine but Elvis completists will get the most value.