Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis is a painfully awful labour of love — Cannes review

 

Coppola's Dream, Our Headache: A Review of Megalopolis at Cannes

Francis Ford Coppola's long-gestating passion project, Megalopolis, has finally premiered at Cannes. While the film undoubtedly represents a labor of love for the legendary director, early reviews suggest it might be a case of love misplaced.

Lavish Vision, Strained Execution

Reports detail Coppola's grand vision for Megalopolis, a sprawling epic aiming to capture the grandeur and folly of New York City. However, it seems the execution struggles to match the ambition. Critics mention unwieldy pacing, a convoluted plot, and performances that range from uneven to melodramatic.

A Director's Indulgence

Reviews acknowledge Megalopolis' place as a deeply personal project for Coppola. This might explain the film's exorbitant budget and scale. However, some reviewers warn that this indulgence may alienate audiences, leaving them cold despite the obvious passion poured into the production.

A Legacy Untarnished

Despite the lukewarm reception for Megalopolis, most critics acknowledge Coppola's enduring legacy as a filmmaking giant. They point out that even the greatest directors stumble, and that even a flawed Coppola film is likely to spark conversation and debate.

The Final Verdict

Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis seems destined to be a divisive experience. While some may find its ambition and scale intoxicating, others may find it overbearing and self-indulgent. One thing is certain: This will be a film that won't leave anyone indifferent.