Francis Ford Coppola’s ambitious film Megalopolis is now available for home rental on platforms like Fandango, Prime Video, and Apple TV+. The movie has sparked polarized reactions, with some calling it a masterpiece while others criticize it as a “trashterpiece.”
Despite Coppola‘s dedication to finally bringing this project to life, the film was a major box office disappointment, reportedly losing tens of millions. Fans of Coppola may still find interest in his unique vision, but mainstream audiences have shown less enthusiasm.
But for this critic, Megalopolis is a daring success. The film’s mix of surreal set pieces, unexpected twists, and emotional shifts—both sincere and cynical—contributes to its unique appeal. Coppola’s sprawling vision, while messy, comes across as intentional, especially with a dedicated cast that fully embraces the project’s ambition.
Adam Driver (Ferrari, White Noise), Nathalie Emmanuel (The Killer, The Invitation), and Giancarlo Esposito (MaXXXine, TMNT: Mutant Mayhem) deliver performances that anchor Coppola’s complex vision, creating a film that feels heartfelt yet fractured, ambitious yet unpolished. It’s a rare, risk-taking work from a legendary filmmaker.
Regardless, Megalopolis is now available to stream at home, giving wider audiences a chance to experience Coppola’s ambitious, self-financed film. Clocking in at 138 minutes, it’s a bold, indulgent ride. While it underperformed at the box office, Coppola’s hope is that home streaming will help recoup more of its substantial budget.
It’s uncertain if Megalopolis will be Coppola’s last film. His age and lengthy gaps between projects suggest it might be possible, but his attitude around the release was upbeat, hinting at more to come. If this is his final project, he leaves on a high note with an explosive blend of ideas and themes. Though Megalopolis may not match Coppola’s iconic classics, it remains intriguing, and I look forward to re-watching it to uncover more of its layered narrative and visuals.
