Cailee Spaeny Priscilla talks about fashion and cinema

Snascent and radiant telle, from which it is difficult to look away. In the firmament of celestial bodies that have illuminated the big screen (and red carpets) in recent months it stands out Cailee Spaeny, Priscilla in the film of the same name Sofia Coppola. Born in 1998, raised in Missouri, Spaeny soon fell in love with cinema and theater, making herself noticed in films Pacific Rim – Uprising, A Just Cause, Vice – The Man in the Shadow and in the series Murder in Easttown. However, it is the work dedicated to the life of Priscilla Presley to consecrate her both as an actress (the nomination for the 2024 Golden Globes is confirmation of this) and as a style icon, thanks to countless designer looks Miu Miu.

Cailee Spaeny, Priscilla: the role of a lifetime

«It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done», reveals the American actress when speaking about Coppola’s latest film. «The most important part of my preparation was meeting Priscilla herself. She gave me so much material to work with, whether it was jokes that only she and Elvis understood, intimate thoughts, or just generally her love for him. Having her by my side was the greatest gift I could have received, but at the same time I felt a lot of pressure. For me it was essential that the film was not only beautiful, but above all that Priscilla saw herself again, that she recognized that that chapter of her life had been represented in the right way.”

To put themselves in the shoes of the protagonist, they played a fundamental role costumes and the make-up. «Priscilla was a true style icon in the Sixties. Her eyelashes, her hairstyle, her bows: even today many people take inspiration from her looks. In the film, then, the clothes and makeup become a tool to tell her journey and her emotions. We meet her for the first time at 14, dressed in fifties-style full skirts, cashmere sweaters and shades of pink. By becoming Elvis’ wife her style evolved. When she distances herself from him she starts wearing what he hated, like jeans and prints, rediscovering herself and what she truly loved.”

From the meeting with Sofia Coppola to the Volpi Cup

Cailee Spaeny’s Magical Year owes much to her collaboration with the cult director. «Her friends describe her as an iron fist in a silk glove. Sofia is kind and sweet, but she knows exactly what she wants. She has a clear vision and that’s what makes her an amazing director to work with. She has no ego, she doesn’t need to prove her worth, she has a lot of self-confidence, but she is generous and fun. On set there was always great music and a court pickleball. Without her female perspective the film would have been completely different,” says Cailee Spaeny.

With this role the very young Spaeny managed to conquer the last Venice Film Festival, where she won the Volpi Cup for the best interpretation. «I had never experienced anything like it. When I received the phone call asking me to return to Laguna I was shocked and confused. The jury was made up of artists I admire, such as Jane Campion, Damian Chazelle and Martin McDonagh. It’s strange to think that they voted for me. I always do my best but the best performances are the result of the work of many, the crew, the director, the co-stars. To make it in this environment requires hard work and a bit of luck.”

The partnership with Miu Miu

From red carpets to the most important ceremonies, the creations of have often accompanied the American actress in recent months Miu Miu. «I have always been a fan of the brand and I am very happy that it was beside me in this special moment. What distinguishes the maison are timeless yet contemporary silhouettes, like the dress I wore at the last Golden Globes, inspired by the fifties and sixties (as well as by Priscilla herself) but with an absolutely modern character.”

Furthermore, for Miu Miu, Spaeny attempted an experience that was new to her: walk the catwalk. «Witnessing behind the scenes of a show reminded me of backstage at the theatre, I saw the same adrenaline, the same nervousness. Luckily I didn’t have to walk in heels! And then Gigi Hadid she was very sweet, gave me valuable advice, above all reminding me to take my time and go at my own pace. I felt like a rock star! It was a very special moment that I will always carry with me.”

In the name ofupcycling

Confirming her vocation in the world of fashion, Cailee Spaeny was the protagonist of the Milanese event Miu Miu Select, during which he presented a selection of the latest Miu Miu and Upcycled Denim collection. «Adding the element ofupcycling it’s truly exciting. The distinctive elements of the maison, such as floral motifs, meet unprecedented craftsmanship, making the garments unique and special. Miu Miu has thus given life to new looks in full respect of the environment.”

From fashion to film, Cailee Spaeny is ready for anything. «I had a great time working with female directors, I would like to continue in that direction. I’m always looking for a challenge, I would like to do something I’ve never tried before.”

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