Director Francis Ford Coppola, at 85, has debuted his long-awaited sci-fi epic, "Megalopolis," at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024. The film, which Coppola has been attempting to make for over 40 years, was financially backed by the sale of part of his winery after facing numerous delays and rewrites. The film's production, carried out in Atlanta’s Trilith studios, reportedly experienced significant challenges similar to those during the making of "Apocalypse Now," including issues with staff and complex production demands.
"Megalopolis" portrays a futuristic America through the story of an architect, played by Adam Driver, who attempts to build a utopian city on New York's ruins. The cast includes prominent actors like Giancarlo Esposito, Nathalie Emmanuel, Shia LaBeouf, Aubrey Plaza, Dustin Hoffman, Jon Voight, and Laurence Fishburne. Despite the star-studded lineup, the production was marred by internal disagreements and disruptions.
Concerns were raised about Coppola's methods, with some crew members describing the film's creation as "chaotic" and comparing it unfavorably with digital film-making techniques that require less spontaneity. Issues cited included Coppola's approach to directing, which some found outdated and inefficient in today's technology-driven environment.
The response to "Megalopolis" has been mixed. While some early screenings elicited strong praise, describing the film as a "visionary masterpiece," others were critical, with comments suggesting that the film might not be a fitting climax to Coppola's illustrious career. The film managed to secure distribution in major European markets shortly before its Cannes premiere. Regardless of its reception, "Megalopolis" stands as a testament to Coppola's enduring ambition and his willingness to invest personally and financially in his cinematic vision.