Coppola's Megalopolis Expands to Graphic Novel: 'Sibling, Not Echo'

In 2024, no movie stirred as much debate as Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis. This bold, unique, and, to some, bizarre epic immediately captured the attention of film enthusiasts and critics alike upon its premiere at the previous year’s Cannes Film Festival. Throughout the year, it became a focal point of both praise and criticism. Now, Coppola is set to bring this compelling story to a new medium: a graphic novel.

Titled Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel, this reinterpretation will be published by Abrams ComicArts in October, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The graphic novel is being 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 work on Newburn and That Texas Blood.

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 emphasized his belief 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 narrates the tale of a visionary architect, played by Adam Driver, who is driven by a destiny to construct a modern utopian city. However, his ambitions clash with the city’s mayor, portrayed by Giancarlo Esposito, who is determined to thwart his plans to transform New Rome into Megalopolis. This narrative draws inspiration from Roman fables, adding a rich layer to the story.

While the film is not currently available for streaming, it can be rented or purchased from various movie platforms.