In 2024, no film stirred as much debate as Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. This audacious, unique, and, to some, bizarre epic became the center of conversation right after its premiere at the previous year's Cannes Film Festival, sparking a year-long wave of both admiration and criticism. Now, the visionary filmmaker is set to explore the story in a new medium, as Megalopolis will soon be available as a graphic novel.
Titled Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel, the book is slated for release in October by Abrams ComicArts, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The adaptation is penned by Chris Ryall, renowned for his work on adaptations of 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.
Coppola shared 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 expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, noting, “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 centers on a visionary architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is driven by a destiny to construct a utopian city. His grand plan, however, puts him at odds with the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who is determined to thwart his efforts to transform New Rome into Megalopolis—a narrative deeply rooted in Roman mythology.
While the film is not yet available for streaming, it can be rented or purchased from various movie platforms.
