Cannes, France: Francis Ford Coppola’s latest film, “Megalopolis,” made quite the splash at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a 10-minute standing ovation. However, the movie has divided critics, with many expressing conflicting opinions. The director, known for classics like “The Godfather” trilogy, invested $120 million of his own money into the project, which features a star-studded cast including Adam Driver, Aubrey Plaza, Shia LaBeouf, Jon Voight, and Dustin Hoffman.
At a press conference in Cannes, the 85-year-old director shared his motivations for making the film, emphasizing his disregard for financial gains. Coppola expressed a deep satisfaction in being able to pursue his creative endeavors and fulfill his personal and professional aspirations, including seeing his daughter Sofia win an Oscar.
Despite the accolades, critics have been divided on their assessment of “Megalopolis.” Reviews range from calling it a “great leap” in cinematic expression to labeling it as “unruly, exaggerated, and drawn to pretension.” The film’s ambitious storyline revolves around an architect’s vision to rebuild New York City as a utopia after a catastrophic event, leaving many critics puzzled about its execution and message.
Amidst the buzz surrounding the film, reports have surfaced accusing Coppola of inappropriate behavior on set. Allegations of misconduct, including pulling women to sit on his lap and attempting to kiss scantily clad extras, have stirred controversy. Executive producer Darren Demetre refuted these claims, stating that he was unaware of any such incidents during the production of the film.
As discussions surrounding “Megalopolis” continue to linger, critics and audiences alike are grappling with the conflicting reviews and controversial allegations. Despite the mixed reception, the film remains a highly anticipated project at one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, capturing both intrigue and skepticism within the industry.