After decades, Francis Ford Coppola’s opus ‘Megalopolis’ finally debuts at Cannes

On May 16, 2024, Francis Ford Coppola’s long-awaited film “Megalopolis” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. This 138-minute science-fiction epic, inspired by Roman history, marks Coppola’s return to the Palme d’Or competition since his 1979 win with “Apocalypse Now.”

The film stars Adam Driver as Cesar Catilina, an architect-scientist aiming to transform a futuristic New York City called New Rome. He faces opposition from Mayor Franklyn Cicero, played by Giancarlo Esposito. The cast also includes Nathalie Emmanuel, Shia LaBeouf, Aubrey Plaza, Laurence Fishburne, and Dustin Hoffman.

Despite mixed reviews, critics found some entertainment value in the film. Vulture called it “a work of absolute madness,” while The Hollywood Reporter noted its “fascination.”

Coppola began developing “Megalopolis” in the early 1980s but faced numerous setbacks. Determined to complete the project after turning 80, he self-financed the $120 million production by selling part of his wine business. While the film has no U.S. distributor yet, it is expected to have a limited release in IMAX theaters globally this year.

Source: Reuters