After much speculation over its fate, Megalopolis is officially headed to North American movie theaters.
Lionsgate has picked up the Francis Ford Coppola feature and is planning a September 27 release for the much talked-about project. Notably, like his previous films such as Apocalypse Now, Coppola will retain ownership, with Lionsgate distributing.
Mystery Around the Film’s Marketing
It is still unclear if Lionsgate will be paying for the marketing of the film, which currently sports a 52 percent critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes after its debut at Cannes in May. The film has had a dramatic backstory surrounding its making.
A Long-Term Vision Brought to Life
After decades in development, Coppola invested part of his personal fortune into the $120 million project, starring Adam Driver as a man obsessed with creating a utopian city.
The Visionary Genius of Cesar Catilina
The Hollywood Reporter chief film critic David Rooney commented that Adam Driver’s character, Cesar Catilina, is a visionary genius intent on saving New York City by building a utopian future, dislodging the elite ruling class in the process
. Rooney continued that Catilina’s mission mirrors Coppola’s dogged determination to see this movie made at any cost.
Cannes Premiere and Reception
At Cannes, an actor appeared onstage to read dialogue to Driver’s character during the screening. There are hopes this unique presentation could be repeated in other screenings across the country. Notably, IMAX had committed to carrying the project even before it had a North American distributor.
Lionsgate’s film boss Adam Fogelson highlighted Coppola’s legendary status, stating: For many of us, his gifts to cinema were one of the inspirations to devote our own careers to film
. He added that it’s a true privilege to work with him and bring this unique movie to audiences.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film features Nathalie Emmanuel, Aubrey Plaza, and Giancarlo Esposito among its cast. The plot centers around socialite Julia Cicero (Nathalie Emmanuel) who finds herself torn between Cesar Catilina (Adam Driver) and Mayor Franklyn Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito).
Lionsgate and Coppola’s Ongoing Collaboration
Coppola expressed his excitement about working with Lionsgate again saying: This is why I am thrilled to have Adam Fogelson and Lionsgate Studios release Megalopolis
. He also mentioned that he is confident they will apply the same care as with Apocalypse Now.
Lionsgate has had a long relationship with Coppola’s American Zeotrope banner. The studio previously distributed some of its projects on home entertainment including Apocalypse Now Final Cut, The Conversation, and The Cotton Club Encore.
A Story of Personal Investment
Coppola addressed his personal investment stating: The money doesn’t matter. What is important are the friends. The money may evaporate
.
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