Francis Ford Coppola Premieres Risky “Megalopolis” at Cannes Film Festival

Francis Ford Coppola to Premier Risky Film at Cannes

CANNES, France (AP) — Legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola is set to premiere his highly anticipated film, “Megalopolis,” at the Cannes Film Festival on Thursday. The movie, which Coppola self-financed with $120 million of his own money, has been shrouded in rumors of production turmoil, adding to the curiosity surrounding its release.

This isn’t the first time Coppola has taken such a bold risk for a film. Forty-five years ago, he faced a similar situation with his production of “Apocalypse Now.” Coppola poured his personal fortune into the project, facing financial jeopardy and mounting pressure as the film’s release date came and went.

Despite the challenges, Coppola eventually screened an unfinished edit of “Apocalypse Now” in Los Angeles, much like he recently did with “Megalopolis.” The film was ultimately selected to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival as a “work in progress,” generating mixed responses from audiences and critics alike.

In a reminiscent moment, Coppola carried his daughter on his shoulders at the Cannes premiere of “Apocalypse Now,” where the film received a polite but not overwhelming response. The press conference following the screening saw Coppola defending the film against criticism, questioning why his morally charged Vietnam epic received more scrutiny than other blockbusters.

Ultimately, “Apocalypse Now” went on to become one of Cannes’ most talked-about premieres, with the jury awarding the Palme d’Or jointly to Coppola’s film and another war-themed entry, “The Tin Drum.” It remains a pivotal moment in Cannes history, solidifying Coppola’s reputation as a daring and influential filmmaker.

Now, as “Megalopolis” prepares to make its debut at Cannes, the parallels to Coppola’s past struggles and triumphs are evident. The film will premiere in competition, showcasing Coppola’s unwavering vision and determination to see his creative endeavors through to the end.

As the clock ticks down to the premiere of “Megalopolis” at Cannes, all eyes are on Coppola once again, eagerly awaiting a glimpse of his latest cinematic masterpiece.