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A Long-Awaited Vision Comes to Life
Francis Ford Coppola has long dreamt of creating a film he describes as “an epic set in the modern landscape of the United States, inspired by the Roman Empire.” After four decades of unwavering pursuit, Megalopolis has finally premiered in commercial theaters. This ambitious project features Adam Driver as a visionary architect navigating a complex world, and it first captivated audiences at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, quickly earning a reputation as one of the most polarizing films to ever grace the event. The divide among viewers mirrors the mixed reception it received at Cannes.
Realizing a Dream at a High Cost
Despite the film’s uncertain reception, Coppola is thrilled to have fulfilled his artistic aspirations, pouring $120 million of his own money into the production—a number that increases when considering marketing expenses funded by his winery. “There’s everything on the line for me. In many ways, I feel I have nothing left to lose,” Coppola reflected in a revealing interview with Rolling Stone, where he shared insights about his creative journey.
The Evolution of a Filmmaker’s Style
Coppola emphasized the uniqueness of each of his films, noting how they reflected different themes and styles: “The Conversation dealt with privacy, The Godfather centered on succession, while Apocalypse Now examined questions of morality.” He expressed curiosity about how his style might adapt as he ages. Over the years, he meticulously compiled scrapbooks filled with inspirations drawn from photographs, newspaper snippets, political cartoons, and literary quotes, hoping these collected materials would illuminate his true artistic identity. “It wasn’t that I was trying to write Megalopolis for 40 years; rather, my scrapbooks captured my thoughts and reflections during that period,” he stated.
Reflections on Legacy and Influence
While Megalopolis is currently struggling to perform at the box office, Coppola’s legacy remains intact, as he has already gifted audiences with countless cinematic masterpieces. His candid discussion with Rolling Stone explored not just his work but also offered intriguing commentary on the acclaimed HBO series The Sopranos, which was notably influenced by the filmmaker’s iconic work, The Godfather.
Ever curious about Coppola’s perspective on the series created by David Chase, fans will be pleased to learn that the illustrious director has indeed watched it and holds it in high regard. He stated, “The Sopranos is truly remarkable. [David Chase] aimed to be a filmmaker, and you can clearly see the cinematic influences woven throughout the series. He elevated television storytelling to match, if not exceed, the quality of film. It’s nothing short of phenomenal.”
Coppola also posited a theory regarding the enduring success of The Godfather, suggesting that showcasing the personal lives of mobsters—specifically their familial relationships—added a unique depth to the narrative that was rarely seen in gangster films. “You see these individuals in their roles, but you also witness their family dynamics, reflecting a significant part of Italian-American life at that time,” he observed.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that James Gandolfini, who starred in The Sopranos, contributed valuable input during the development of Megalopolis over the years. “He offered numerous insightful suggestions when I shared a draft in 2001,” Coppola recalled fondly. His collaborative spirit and openness to ideas highlight a career dedicated to continual evolution and storytelling excellence.