In 2024, no movie stirred as much controversy and discussion as Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. This bold, unique, and to some, bizarre epic became the talk of the town right after its premiere at the previous year's Cannes Film Festival. As the year unfolded, it continued to be a focal point of both acclaim and criticism. Now, Coppola is bringing the story to fans in a new form: a graphic novel.
Titled Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel, this reinterpretation is set to 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. The illustrations will be crafted by Jacob Phillips, known for his contributions to Newburn and That Texas Blood.
“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,” Coppola shared in a statement to the outlet.
“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.”
Megalopolis follows the journey of a visionary architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is driven by the belief that it is his destiny to construct a modern utopian city. His ambitious project to transform New Rome into Megalopolis pits him against the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who is determined to thwart his plans. The narrative draws inspiration from Roman fables, adding a layer of depth to the storyline.
While the film is not currently available for streaming, it can be rented or purchased from various digital platforms where movies are sold.
