Mubi, the distributor, streamer, and production company, has acquired international rights (excluding North America and Italy) for Sofia Coppola’s highly-anticipated film, “Priscilla.” The film is set to have its world premiere in competition at the Venice Film Festival.
Mubi will retain all rights in several territories, including the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Austria, Latin America, Benelux, and Turkey. The company is planning theatrical releases for the film in the U.K., Ireland, Germany, Latin America, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The Match Factory, which Mubi acquired in early 2022, will handle sales for all other acquired territories, excluding North America and Italy.
“Priscilla,” written and directed by Sofia Coppola, is based on the 1985 memoir “Elvis and Me” written by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon. The film stars Cailee Spaeny as Priscilla Beaulieu, Jacob Elordi as Elvis Presley, and Dagmara Dominczyk. It follows Beaulieu after she meets Presley, exploring their long courtship and turbulent marriage from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland.
Produced by Lorenzo Mieli for The Apartment Pictures, a Fremantle Company, Coppola for American Zoetrope, and Youree Henley, “Priscilla” was financed by Fremantle Group. A24 has secured the distribution rights for the film in the U.S., while Vision Distribution, a Sky Company, will distribute it in Italy.
Aside from “Priscilla,” Mubi has two co-productions premiering at the Venice Film Festival. Michel Franco’s film “Memory,” starring Jessica Chastain and Peter Sarsgaard, will compete in the festival’s main competition. “Gasoline Rainbow” will premiere in the Orizzonti section. The Match Factory is handling international sales for both films.
Sofia Coppola is represented by Gersh and Hirsch Wallerstein, while Cailee Spaeny is represented by WME and Sugar 23. Jacob Elordi is represented by Gersh, Nicky Gluyas Management, and Goodman Genow Schenkman.
Mubi’s acquisition of “Priscilla” at the Venice Film Festival is a significant moment for the company. It highlights their commitment to acquiring high-profile and critically acclaimed films for distribution. With its strong lineup of films premiering at the festival, including “Priscilla,” Mubi is positioning itself as a major player in the international film market.
The Venice Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, known for showcasing groundbreaking and innovative films. It serves as a platform for emerging filmmakers as well as established directors. The festival’s selection of films often sets the tone for the upcoming awards season.
For Sofia Coppola, “Priscilla” represents another opportunity to explore themes of love, loneliness, and the complexities of human relationships. Coppola is known for her distinctive storytelling style and her ability to capture intimate and nuanced moments on screen. With “Priscilla,” she delves into the unseen side of the great American myth surrounding Elvis Presley and Priscilla Beaulieu’s relationship.
Through the eyes of Priscilla Beaulieu, played by Cailee Spaeny, Coppola aims to shed light on the emotional journey of a young woman who finds herself caught up in the whirlwind of fame and superstardom. The film promises to provide a fresh perspective on the iconic figures of Elvis and Priscilla, uncovering new layers to their story.
As Mubi continues to expand its reach in the film industry, the acquisition of “Priscilla” adds another exciting project to their roster. The company has built a reputation for curating a diverse and compelling selection of films, catering to a wide range of tastes and interests.
With its plans for theatrical releases in multiple territories, Mubi is demonstrating its commitment to bringing “Priscilla” to audiences around the world. The film’s inclusion in the Venice Film Festival lineup will undoubtedly generate further buzz and anticipation for its release.
As the festival unfolds and the world premieres of “Priscilla” and other films captivate audiences, the Venice Film Festival serves as a platform for these works to make their mark on the global film landscape. For Mubi, the acquisition of “Priscilla” represents a milestone in their journey to become a leading player in the international film market.