A Shakespearean Satire Built Within a Futuristic Fable

Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis is a cinematic marvel that boldly ventures into the depths of societal and political critique. This bombastic and frivolous fable intertwines Shakespearean satire with a modern narrative, weaving an intricate tapestry that scrutinises the social and political landscape of contemporary America.

Set in a futuristic yet decaying metropolis, Megalopolis follows the story of Cesar Catilina, a brilliant architect who dreams of rebuilding New Rome into a utopian paradise. However, his vision faces fierce opposition from corrupt politicians, powerful corporations, and a society teetering on the brink of chaos. Cesar’s journey is fraught with moral dilemmas, alliances, and betrayals that challenge his ideals and resolve. The city also faces the duel between Cesar, who is in favour of a utopian future, and the greedy mayor, Franklyn Cicero. Between them is Julia Cicero, with her loyalty divided between her father and her beloved. As Cesar navigates this precarious landscape, the film delves into the complexities of human nature, ambition, and the eternal struggle between progress and tradition.

One of the film’s most remarkable features is its extravagant and audacious approach to world-building. Coppola conjures a convoluted and intricate narrative, spanning multiple dimensions, both literal and metaphorical. The city’s architecture is a dazzling blend of futuristic skyscrapers and classical ruins, symbolizing the ongoing tension between progress and decay. This meticulously crafted world immerses the audience in a visually arresting environment that is both awe-inspiring and deeply thought-provoking.

Coppola’s directorial brilliance shines through in the poetical and artistically executed scenes that define Megalopolis. Every frame is a masterclass in composition, and with the help of his son, Roman Coppola, as second unit director, the film’s visual language brims with symbolism and allegory. The cinematography and visual effects capture both the grandeur and the grit of the city’s landscapes, while the evocative score underscores the emotional and thematic undertones of the narrative. The result is a film that stands unrivalled in its artistic ambition and execution.

At its core, Megalopolis delves into themes of power, corruption, and the human condition, much like Coppola’s Godfather trilogy. The film’s Shakespearean elements are evident in its exploration of ambition, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. Characters navigate a labyrinthine web of political intrigue and personal vendettas, mirroring the complexities of real-world governance and societal dynamics.

The film’s Darwinist philosophical foundations also draw heavily from the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher. Themes of duty, resilience, and the transient nature of power are intricately woven into the narrative, reflecting Aurelius’s meditations on leadership and virtue. Characters in Megalopolis often find themselves at pivotal crossroads where they must reconcile their desires with their responsibilities, echoing the Stoic ideal of rational self-control and ethical conduct.

While Megalopolis stands out for its extravagant world-building and artistic execution, the screenplay is heavily flawed. The narrative, though ambitious, often becomes convoluted and difficult to follow. The film’s attempt to intertwine multiple dimensions and complex themes results in a disjointed storyline that lacks coherence. Additionally, the character development is inconsistent, with some characters feeling underdeveloped and their motivations unclear. For instance, Cesar’s transformation from an idealistic architect to a disillusioned leader is compelling, but other characters, such as the corrupt politicians and powerful corporate figures, lack depth and nuance. This lack of clarity and focus detracts from the overall impact of the film, making it challenging for the audience to fully engage with the story and its themes.

Ultimately, Coppola’s Megalopolis is a bombastic, frivolous, stupefying fable that delivers a Shakespearean satirical commentary on the American socio-political landscape but fumbles and crumbles under its own weight. Its extravagant world-building and complex narrative, combined with its poetical and artistically executed scenes, set it apart as a cinematic masterpiece that does not deliver as it should. However, the film’s exploration of themes and philosophies adds profound depth and resonance to its critique, making Megalopolis not only a visual and auditory delight but also a profound reflection on the human condition.

Now available for streaming everywhere.

-Dirk Lombard Fourie