Cailee Spaeny, known for her roles in Alien: Romulus and upcoming film Priscilla, originally missed an opportunity to collaborate with director Sofia Coppola on a scrapped version of The Little Mermaid. This collaboration, which featured a unique self-tape audition by Spaeny, was ultimately not made. Despite this setback, Spaeny’s admiration for Coppola’s work remained strong, and she later auditioned for The Beguiled, only to face another disappointment. She reflected on how Coppola’s films resonated with her as a young girl, offering a narrative for young women that was often unexplored in her upbringing.
It was through these early interactions with Coppola that Spaeny eventually landed her breakout role as Priscilla Presley in the upcoming film set to release in 2023. After meeting with Coppola in New York and discussing the role, Spaeny’s journey to portraying the iconic figure began. Interestingly, her work on Civil War alongside Kirsten Dunst, a frequent collaborator of Coppola, played a significant role in securing the role. Dunst provided Spaeny with insights on Coppola’s directing style, contrasting the intense nature of Civil War with the relaxed and chill atmosphere of the upcoming project.
In 2014, Sofia Coppola was in the process of developing a live-action version of The Little Mermaid, based on the darker original fairy tale rather than the Disney adaptation. The project, which aimed to explore a different tone and narrative, faced challenges within the studio system. A pivotal moment came when a studio executive questioned how the film would appeal to older men, leading to uncertainty and eventually the project’s cancellation. Coppola’s vision for a reimagined fairy tale was a departure from the traditional retellings, showcasing her unique creative perspective.
As Cailee Spaeny’s career continues to flourish, her journey from missed opportunities to breakthrough roles highlights the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. Her path, intertwined with experiences with renowned directors like Sofia Coppola, serves as a testament to perseverance and dedication in the pursuit of one’s craft. With Priscilla Presley on the horizon and various projects in the works, Spaeny’s talent and commitment to storytelling are set to captivate audiences on a global scale.
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