Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola is making headlines with his upcoming epic film, “Megalopolis.” The director intentionally cast actors who have been previously “canceled” in order to avoid being labeled as just another “woke Hollywood production.” While the $120 million movie is set to be released on September 27th by Lionsgate, it has already faced its fair share of controversy. From mixed critical reviews after its premiere at Cannes to reports of on-set disagreements, Coppola is hoping that the film will spark important conversations.
A Diverse Cast
Coppola’s film stars Adam Driver as an ambitious architect named Cesar Catilina, who dreams of transforming a city into a utopia using a new material called megalon. The cast also includes Giancarlo Esposito and Nathalie Emmanuel in key roles. What sets “Megalopolis” apart is the casting of supporting actors such as Shia LaBeouf, Jon Voight, and Dustin Hoffman, which has raised eyebrows due to the controversies surrounding them.
Controversial Actors
Shia LaBeouf, currently embroiled in a lawsuit filed by FKA Twigs over allegations of abuse, plays a role in the film. Hoffman faced accusations of sexual harassment from a former intern, while Voight’s far-right beliefs and support of former President Donald Trump have caused tension in his personal relationships. Despite these controversies, Coppola stands by his decision to cast these actors, citing the importance of different viewpoints in creating a thought-provoking film.
Starting a Conversation
Coppola acknowledges that “Megalopolis” will not solve all of society’s issues but believes that it can be a catalyst for change. He emphasizes the need for dialogue about the future of the country and hopes his film will encourage viewers to ask tough questions and confront the divisions in society. The filmmaker is eager for “Megalopolis” to kickstart conversations about important issues, as he believes that true progress can only come from open and honest discussions.
Interestingly, “Megalopolis” features Jon Voight portraying a character reminiscent of Trump, despite Voight’s public disagreements with that interpretation. Coppola has expressed his admiration for the range of political ideologies represented by the actors in his film, showcasing a diversity of viewpoints that he believes adds depth to the narrative. By exploring complex political themes through his characters, Coppola hopes to provoke audiences into reevaluating their own beliefs and biases.
“Megalopolis” is poised to be a thought-provoking and controversial film that challenges audiences to engage with difficult topics. By pushing boundaries with his casting choices and exploring political themes, Francis Ford Coppola is using his art to encourage conversations about the future of society. While not everyone may agree with his decisions, there is no denying the impact that “Megalopolis” is likely to have as it enters the cultural conversation.
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