In 2024, no film stirred up as much debate and discussion as Francis Ford Coppola's "Megalopolis." This bold, unique, and, to some, bizarre epic became the talk of the town following its premiere at the previous year's Cannes Film Festival. Throughout the year, it garnered both fervent praise and sharp criticism. Now, Coppola is set to expand the narrative into a new medium with the release of "Megalopolis" as a graphic novel.
Titled "Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel," the adaptation will be published by Abrams ComicArts in October, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The graphic novel will be penned by Chris Ryall, renowned for his adaptations of works by Stephen King, Harlan Ellison, and Clive Barker. Jacob Phillips, known for his contributions to "Newburn" and "That Texas Blood," will provide the illustrations.
Coppola expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "I was pleased to put the idea of a graphic novel in the competent hands of Chris Ryall with the idea that, although it was inspired by my film Megalopolis, it didn’t necessarily have to be limited by it. I hoped the graphic novel would take its own flight, with its own artists and writer so that it would be a sibling of the film, rather than just an echo."
He further elaborated on the creative process, saying, "That’s what I feel Chris, Jacob Phillips, and the team at Abrams ComicArts have accomplished. It confirms my feeling that art can never be constrained, but rather always a parallel expression, and part of the bounty we can make available to our patrons, audiences, and readers."
The story of "Megalopolis" centers on a forward-thinking architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is driven by a vision to construct a modern utopian city. His ambitious plans to transform New Rome into Megalopolis clash with the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who is determined to thwart his efforts. This narrative unfolds as a modern Roman fable.
While the film is not currently available for streaming, it can be rented or purchased from various movie platforms.
