Here's my breakdown and review for Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. What did you think of the film, and like me, were you mixed on the execution of it?
I found this film very interesting because of its audacious and experimental approach. It’s essentially like watching a 120 million dollar avant-garde film on the big screen which is a rarity in today’s Hollywood landscape. I also appreciate the meta-narrative to it all because it adds another layer to this maximalist romp. The film is messy, chaotic, heterodox, satirical, and eccentric in all the right places. It’s going to be polarizing but put me on the more favorable end of the spectrum. I’ll be coming back to Megalopolis.
Thank you! With all the negative reviews and bad box office results, it's good to find another viewer who thought it was a great movie. I left the theater with a sense of hope, short-lived though it may be.
I found the idea of a living building material interesting, especially how Cesar uses Megalon to create organic shapes found in nature. Certainly made me think about technocracy and I personally view Cesar as a technocrat that might not be all he seems. Control of nature is replaced by creating nature itself. His construction is referred to as the "Garden of Eden", implying Cesar is a god-like figure and a creator of a new world, a new future. But it's still artificial. And this kind of utopian thinking often leads to the very opposite playing out in the world. Many despots began as idealists wanting to create a better world, but then, if anyone went against their utopian vision, they were eliminated. Megalopolis obviously isn't just referring to the size of this city, but implies Cesar might be a megalomaniac. Cicero explicitly calls him one. It's interesting that Cesar is an explicit reference to Julius Caesar, considered a despot by many historians. There's of course the dynamic between the historic Cicero and Caesar. The two often formed uneasy alliances, but were never friends. After Caesar took Rome, he pardoned Cicero who favoured Pompey, Caesar's enemy. Cicero was allowed to remain unharmed in Rome, but forced to stay out of politics at least until Caesar's death. This certainly makes me view Cesar as a false Messiah, made even more relevant with his new face, half-made from an artificial substance megalon. There's certainly multiple readings of Coppola's work. Megalopolis is thought-provoking that's for sure.
I think I liked the movie a lot, but I can also easily admit it's a huge unfocused mess...either way I can't stop thinking about it a couple days later
I think if he were to make a director's cut turn it into 3 hours plus like he probably wanted to then the critics would jump all over him. "Megalopolis is a megaflopolis! It's so looooong!" 😢 So some scenes are cut for the purpose of keeping the pacing but then some things can be lost.
this is an analysis i i did just after seeing the film a few days ago, i am glad it mostly aligns with your take. "I saw Francis Ford Coppola's (think The Godfather and Apocalypse Now) new film, Megalopolis, today and would love to hear other people's take on it. Here are mine. It starts slow, with a disjointed, collage-like approach that nearly put me to sleep in the first half. I wasn't sure if I was watching scenes from a poorly made sequel of Joker or The Matrix. To be honest, I considered walking out-something I’ve only done once or twice in my life-but I’m glad I stayed. Someone nearby even started snoring, lol. Don't get hung up or distracted by the Roman and modern-day juxtapositions-maybe that's the intent-however, it’s largely symbolic. The film blends complex themes of political power, corruption, progress, and collapse with both historical and modern allegories. It starts sluggishly but gains momentum as deeper revelations unfold, much like social or political movements that begin with idealism but reveal layers of power and personal agendas. The contrast between Caesar and Cicerro is key to the film’s message. Caesar advocates for progress, but his vision remains elusive, while Cicerro, once prosecuting Caesar for his wife’s death, is mistrustful and believes in maintaining the status quo. He seems tempered, however, by the weight of his past actions when his daughter, Julia Cicero, falls for Caesar after she realizes he is genuine. Clodio, Caesar's jealous cousin, also plays a pivotal role. While his character evokes echoes of Roman history, especially themes of power and betrayal, the film uses these historical references more symbolically to comment on modern political dynamics. The demagoguery and manipulation in Clodio’s actions feel like a loose adaptation of the power struggles we see in today’s society. There’s also Wow Platinum, a seductive TV presenter specializing in financial news, who desires money and power. She manages to entangle herself with powerful men through her allure, playing a significant role in the film’s portrayal of manipulation and ambition. Her character feels like a critique of the role modern media plays in shaping society today. Earlier in the film, there’s a scene suggesting the construction of a casino, showcased with a flashy simulation, which feels particularly apt. The film isn't without its flaws. Its collage-like style may feel overindulgent at times, and the early pacing could leave some viewers disengaged. Sometimes I think it could have been more engaging and authentic if handled by a film student with a much smaller budget (haha). The film seems to perk up when attention shifts to the auction of a singing girl’s virginity. Yet, it redeems itself as it moves toward more substantial themes, critiquing both the idealistic vision of progress and the manipulations that often accompany power. n the end, Megalopolis delivers a thought-provoking message: even when progress seems naive or flawed, it remains essential. The experimental, fragmented style reflects the fractured nature of modern political discourse, where clarity and direction often get lost in the noise. A scene where a little boy asks for an autograph suggests that you can't stop ideas or dreams. This also connects to a broader theme in life: how do we stop time or keep things the same when everything feels perfect? How do we keep it from slipping away? Megalopolis seems to suggest that while you can't literally freeze those moments, the pursuit of progress and happiness, even if elusive, is what keeps life moving forward. The film even echoes political slogans we hear today: "We are not going back." It explores the blurred lines between progress and corruption-Caesar pushes for progress, but it remains out of reach, until the end, where, like in a fairy tale, his vision is realized."
I enjoyed the dream like qualities. It definitely took some time for me to drop into the world but I let myself, once there, I felt like I could see the vision. I don’t understand all the bashing that it has gotten. It may not be for everyone. I know I like strange and different movies. This one is definitely an experience.
Thank you so much for explaining this film. I’ve seen reviews, but they’ve all described it as a confused mess. I was hoping for a better explanation on what to expect, and you have approached this with sincerity, an open mind, and with intellectual curiosity. Not sure I’m going to like the movie, but your analysis has encouraged me to see it. Thank you ❤
This reviewer doesn't understand some of the basics of the story. What actually happens in the movie is: He dislikes the mayor's daughter until he finds out that she has the same magic power as him, which is called "T-Symmetry". when he discovers she is the only other person who has "T-Symmetry", after that Then they start to work together and become lovers. Because they are the only two people with that magic power. So they can do magic stuff together throughout it.
@ in that scene toward the beginning in his office, he’s totally uninterested until she discloses that she also is “T-Symmetry” (which is some time freezing superpower). From then on they often utilize “T-Symmetry” together. But it’s defined as some super power, (and no other characters besides he and her are shown to have thst power)
I did not enjoy this film, but I can absolutely appreciate the effort, passion and vision behind it. I think that it should be considered that part of the skill of the film maker is ensuring your film connects with people and I think, in the case of Megalopolis, unfortunately it is just too inaccessible for most audiences. And that's not to do with the audience being too 'stupid' or impatient to understand - I think that this film was presented in such a way that it's confusing and causing audiences to disengage. I really like the ideas at play in Megalopolis, but sadly, not the execution.
same here, I just felt like I didn't understand it. I think maybe with time and commentary from listening to others that understand the movie, maybe I"ll develop an appreciation for the film.
@ryan9891 well, for me, I just didn't understand the symbolism he was using. It was great cinematography for sure, but I think I'm just not smart enough to get it
@ryan9891 part of me thinks it might be autobiographical with Cesar and Julia representing Francis and Eleanor. The extravagant parties we see at the beginning may represent Hollywood when Francis entered the business, and through it all he met Eleanor and she worked with him and their love conquered hollywood.
@@theclaybeartravels3596 that may be some interpretation of the movie, or even his intent. If that is his intent, it doesn't make the movie confusing. The plot is pretty straightforward.
Great review thanks! The rants are too easy for my taste. I enjoyed the movie and it stimulated my brain which hardly ever happens. This surprise mess chaos element really is unique and refreshing. I can’t stand predictability anymore. I enjoyed being utterly confused and really lost my mind and being forced to think and sort through it. A truly challenging movie
Before seeing the film, before its release I predicted that it would panned at first, re-evaluated ten years from now, and considered a classic of 21st century filmmaking twenty years from now. Now that I've seen it I still think that's likely. I had some mini allergic reactions while viewing it but love FFC for the challenges. Above all I'm love with the film's scope, imagery, and above all artistic and intellectual audacity. In the future we'll say the movie was ahead of its time.
@@jd3jefferson556 Except, that's the Neanderthal tier level take. He's effectively been ousted from Hollywood and hired 'cancelled' actors intentionally. It's "Great Man" ethos undermines the leftist oriented content.
Idk maybe the random depictions of Hitler era Germany in black and white? Some guy was literally cracking up in the theater during this moment@@barbaraallen5290
Was it ever explained how Caesar's wife died? How did he get shot in the eye and not die? I don't get how the building of a utopia city has to do with the time stopping mumbo jumbo.
I have not seen it, but based on this I can imagine why people hate it. The story and style remind me of German expressionism (and obviously Metropolis), which is very far removed from what audiences expect today. It's clearly not reality-based and is full of metaphors and symbolism. That is kryptonite for Americans. The only way he could have made less money is by filming it with Italian actors with subtitles.
I have nothing against metaphors and symbolism. Some of my favorite films hinge on this very heavily. A somewhat recent one that comes to mind is The Lighthouse. But this film just does a pisspoor job of making that symbolism palatable. Like I got the message of what he was saying but was confused at the same time, idk how else to explain it. There was so much that happened and didn’t really have much explanation. Like why is the Nazi symbolism supposed to represent the pleas of the people? Especially when the people that represent the lower class in this film are a mixed bag of races and ethnicities. It just felt jarring and unnecessary. The satellite crashing into the city just happens and then they don’t even mention it again throughout the rest of the film. I understand what he was trying to accomplish with this movie but I think he was far too ambitious and wasn’t clear on what he actually wanted. It seems like this movie should’ve been 8 hours long so we could actually see the metaphors simmer a little bit. Because it’s just metaphor after metaphor, symbol after symbol, to the point where it’s just jarring and not all that effective. That coupled with the abysmal dialogue, and the shitty CGI it just doesn’t make for a very pleasant experience.
@@WickedIndigoi saw the nazi symbolism as a reference to how nazism started, as a “socialist” party that rallied the people under the lie that their leader cared about them and is fighting for bettering their lives while he’s in fact just trying to gain power
Wow that's incredible. You know while I was watching Megalopolis, one of my favourite shots in the film, or visual sequences was that moment Adam Driver's car went past the statue. It looked so impressive on screen! So cool of you to leave a comment and to see you in the film.
I think this was just a scene of a man regretting one moment too late his suicide and imaging in his mind he can stop time and what that would change…. The hope from the baby, is actually the opposite… no hope.
Short analysis. Cesar Catilina is Blackrock Wef, and the evil world puppeteers. The other corrupt characters are the excuse for the evil to take over and destroy the world.
The colosseum scene for instance. Loooong scene of bad edits, characters jabbering nonsense, laughing, crying, screaming drunkenly, circus people dancing. Why was any of that necessary
@@therealmattdamon5161 Exactly. Why would the rich, politicians & society invest time in doing any of that? You would think their time would be better spent contributing to better society.... I forgot the quote, but before Cesar's drug scene, Julia asks him why he does 'that'. He responds that the people like him to be accessible, or to see him have fun? I think? Until they want him dead? I forget exactly but maybe, theres a reason in there somewhere.... Maybe not. Maybe the movie sucks. Maybe our society sucks. Maybe both. Could that be the point?
I could not disagree more. This is a film that doesn't get the credit it deserves because even though it couldnt be any more blatant, studios only chase comic book blockbusters, the audience has become so lazy in their interpretation of any message. I think it makes perfect sense & am frustrated at FFC's lack of mystery to barely leave any meat on the bone of interpretation. He obviously knows the audience better than me, because here we are.
I don't understand what people think doesn't make sense about it. It makes fine sense. Some aspects of it are a little abstract or stylized, there's a lot of metaphor and references to Roman history, Old Hollywood epics, and Shakespeare, etc... but there's a perfectly understandable plot and point to the movie. What is so confusing to you?
@AWSVids I honestly haven't seen the movie, but Lynch is like that, Eraserhead and Mulholland Drive don't make much sense. But they apparently do. I love those movies. Lynch says Drive makes sense, but he won't explain how. Coppala did Twixt which is a confusing movie but I liked it.
To me it was a silent film just made today like the abstract esthetics, the pacing and characters quoting ideology all seemed very silent era to me. I'll keep an eye out for a directors cut maybe
The sad thing is: This explainer-video is actually better than the movie. Or rather.. it paints a picture of what an awesome movie Megalopolis could have been.. if it wasn’t such a jumbled mess. I really want to like it. But it just.. isn’t good. 😢
I think that is the bigger issue. People who enjoy it will explain it in a manner that makes the movie seem more than it actually is. Meanwhile, those of us who had to sit through the ordeal of this disorganized bloated mess will see it for what it is: A film art project for a famed director who made it fundamentally for himself and not for the general audience at large.
Dude it's a Roman play based on modern time. It's not written or acted in a modern way though thus. If this was made during the classical Roman time people would totally get it. We are all just used to simple movies like Marvel. But they are what are mean to be. This movie is not meant to be that.@@ScuffedF
@@1220THEMAN Because neither of those are ancient Roman or Greek style plays. Also well the director was high 90% of the time making this movie so maybe somebody needs to watch while loaded
The entire studio-led movie industry came at it with a chip on their shoulder about the fact that Coppola made it independently, but did so on a level high enough to compete with studio blockbusters. They had to destroy it. And they did. They trashed it at Cannes, which set off the negative media blitz that was no doubt led by studio connections in the media, studio-friendly movie critics, etc... this movie's chances at success were sabotaged from there. When in doubt, people will interpret an experimental movie like this negatively, when they're primed to see it as bad from what they've heard going into it. Compare that to how an even weirder and more abstract, experimental movie like Poor Things was received by the Hollywood studio-led establishment. If people had been primed by bad reviews to think that movie was bad going into it, they wouldn't have given it much of a chance, the same way they did with Megalopolis. But because people hear that it's great despite the weirdness, people are willing to give it more of a chance. The power of suggestion is very strong with a movie like this. This is why time will ultimately tell the truth about it, and I can already see that the kind of people who are primed to really give a movie like this a chance, are liking it.
Wow, this review is way too positive. By the end of the film, I couldn’t care less about any of the characters, and there was no convincing evidence that Caesar Catalina was some visionary architect. Coppola cashed in on wine and alcohol, saved a buck, and ended up producing this mess, which seems to glorify decadence and excess. Well, at least we have some other great films like The Godfather I & II and Apocalypse Now.
I really wanted to enjoy this movie and have something to think about, but it's incredibly predictable. It's also incredibly boring and slow. I think the majority of people that are going to pretend to like this movie are the ones that bash Marvel and like to pretend they are smarter than you at dinner parties. Ohhhh what an idea, using natural shapes and forms in architecture. Trope. I've been to Hudson Yards and seen the Vessel. I get why people are jumping off it. The actors did good, some of the shots are beautiful, and the costume and outfits are top notch. It is also celebrity packed, where even the side characters are notable actors. But still, I wasn't left with anything new to think about. I wasn't inspired. I was just bored and have a crick in my neck from sitting for so long.
This movie is historic in a few ways. 1. It will rank among history's greatest egocentric ridiculous propaganda films with "Triumph of the Will" and "Birth of a Nation". This films goal is a common psyop piece that is intended to normalize a coming dramatic catastrophe (massive global war) and global shift (to global socialism) so people have a way to perceive what is about to happen perceive what is about to happen and hope to see it as a way to make sense of what is to come. It paints America as a failing empire like Rome was because of its character of greed and excess while workers took under ground ( Marxist herion 101 for the masses) Villainizing those who would want to maintain structure and patriot zealots. Meanwhile it's prescribing a new organic techno global communism's that seeks to not give any answers but just to ponder pompous philosophical non answers for the sheeple to be mesmerized by with shiny lights undefined moral ambiguity. Getting us ready for the coming global resents war that they can put into place. Secondly the most fantasticly breathtaking horrible film to be studied and laughed at forever and realize that a young man can make 2 of the greatest movies of all time and the same old senile one can make the worst
You explained more in 5 min than I got out sitting and watching the movie for 45 min. It made no f’n sense while your sitting and watching it. It needed a narrator or something (which it sort of already had) but wasn’t utilized enough. The beginning of the movie feels like you accidentally were fast forwarded into the middle of the story with no one to explain what the heck is going on. I wasn’t sure if some things were real or just seen through characters vision of things. I did not get that NY was New Rome. We weren’t sure if this was the future or a made up time only that it was blending Art Deco time period, with the future and Roman Times. So yeah very confusing in terms of time and place. The script was so poor it felt like some of the characters (ie mayors daughter) were extremely shallow and overly simplified. Shia Labouf character looked awful. If your gonna dress a man in women’s clothing than make him look fabulous. He looked hideous and his character was nasty for no reason. His sister was all over the place. Incest is not cute. She started trouble then helped mayors daughter break into a building to get a document proving someone innocent of crimes accused of. Like make up your mind girl. Are you on the side of evil or justice? The whole time I’m sitting there, I’m like get to the point. No clear plot emerged, no character development, and scenes that made no sense. If I have to watch 2 hours to final make sense of the movie at the very end, it’s make my brain hurt and not worth the effort. I want to be taken for a ride with the storyline not constantly questioning what just happened? I waited months to see this and was greatly disappointed. Coppola should have worked with Christopher Nolan on this film. It had so much potential to be a freaking interesting film but fell short miserably. We unfortunately walked out half way through the movie. We never do that.
People dont understand the movie becuase it not a marvel movie. This is a classic heady Roman play based in a alternate modern day instead of rome. Think Romano and Juliette with leo.
They don’t understand it because it was edited by a mental institution patient, I actually appreciated the avant-garde approach to the storytelling through the editing even as I found it consistently hilarious and baffling in equal measures, but it comes at the cost of overall cohesion. Yes the basic story is not that difficult to follow, and it’s nice to see a big budget movie completely break from any form of narrative convention and structure, but there are films that do it better and it only goes to show why the storytelling formula we have is used so often: when you do something interesting within it, you are very likely to create a great film. This was experimental, and that is fabulous, but in my opinion, the experiment is pretty much held together by duct-tape and a weird cosmic force that was also responsible for keeping me engaged throughout. It’s an experience, but not one that is entirely successful in its aims I think.
@@horrorfanandy4647 I remember watching it in class right after watching the one the made in the 60s or 70s or whenever it was, and the Leo one felt like they were trying to “scary movie” Shakespeare . Like satirize it or something . But it was awful even though it was full of great actors
O there was a PLOT! Poor stupid me, I saw one view after another, never getting what this was supposed to be about. Maybe others are smarter than me. All I wanted the movie to do was END.
@@fireinthesky2333lmao I watch a lot of surreal films and I still think it was bad. What a weak take putting and assuming someone loves Marvel because they hate Megalopolis
Honestly, I'm not a fan of the message - to me, it's just unreasonable and useless claims about the nature of society and humanity told in a confusing way. The story also seems to do a lot more hinting at ideas than showing what they mean.
Worst movie ever made, certainly a candidate. I could only watch about 20 minutes at a time before shutting it down in disgust with the inane writing, flat acting and awful directing. Made my way through it on a dare, but took several evenings. Just plain awful movie.
It's less about spoonfeeding a coherent, plot driven narrative to a dumbed down audience than capturing the spectacle of a crumbling civilization. It wasn't perfect by any stretch but all the whining from the "Marvel Universe" addicts just want yet another round of bland nostalgia mongering is sickening.
It was hilarious how everything just switched so quickly. I was like “Hang on, what?” It completely bypassed me and I was fixed to the screen for the last half of the film due to how insane it was.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Here's my breakdown and review for Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. What did you think of the film, and like me, were you mixed on the execution of it?
Hearing your breakdown definitely makes the film more digestible, but man it’s still tough.
For those that saw the movie, is that a crossbow, or are you just happy to see me?
Whatever it is, it’s in Shia LaBeouf’s @$$
I found this film very interesting because of its audacious and experimental approach. It’s essentially like watching a 120 million dollar avant-garde film on the big screen which is a rarity in today’s Hollywood landscape. I also appreciate the meta-narrative to it all because it adds another layer to this maximalist romp. The film is messy, chaotic, heterodox, satirical, and eccentric in all the right places. It’s going to be polarizing but put me on the more favorable end of the spectrum. I’ll be coming back to Megalopolis.
That's a perfect analogy. Thanks.
I went in with no expectations just vibes and it was fucking awesome
Thank you! With all the negative reviews and bad box office results, it's good to find another viewer who thought it was a great movie. I left the theater with a sense of hope, short-lived though it may be.
No it was beyond bad.
Totally agree!
What movie did you watch? It was so bad. Little to no plot, horrible acting, terrible visuals… I wanted to love this movie but it was so bad
@@therealmattdamon5161 you need a rich Emersonian mind to understand
I found the idea of a living building material interesting, especially how Cesar uses Megalon to create organic shapes found in nature. Certainly made me think about technocracy and I personally view Cesar as a technocrat that might not be all he seems. Control of nature is replaced by creating nature itself. His construction is referred to as the "Garden of Eden", implying Cesar is a god-like figure and a creator of a new world, a new future. But it's still artificial. And this kind of utopian thinking often leads to the very opposite playing out in the world.
Many despots began as idealists wanting to create a better world, but then, if anyone went against their utopian vision, they were eliminated. Megalopolis obviously isn't just referring to the size of this city, but implies Cesar might be a megalomaniac. Cicero explicitly calls him one.
It's interesting that Cesar is an explicit reference to Julius Caesar, considered a despot by many historians. There's of course the dynamic between the historic Cicero and Caesar. The two often formed uneasy alliances, but were never friends. After Caesar took Rome, he pardoned Cicero who favoured Pompey, Caesar's enemy. Cicero was allowed to remain unharmed in Rome, but forced to stay out of politics at least until Caesar's death. This certainly makes me view Cesar as a false Messiah, made even more relevant with his new face, half-made from an artificial substance megalon. There's certainly multiple readings of Coppola's work. Megalopolis is thought-provoking that's for sure.
I think I liked the movie a lot, but I can also easily admit it's a huge unfocused mess...either way I can't stop thinking about it a couple days later
I think if he were to make a director's cut turn it into 3 hours plus like he probably wanted to then the critics would jump all over him.
"Megalopolis is a megaflopolis! It's so looooong!" 😢
So some scenes are cut for the purpose of keeping the pacing but then some things can be lost.
an unfocused mess is our world! i think its on purpose and its not a bad thing!
I have been waiting patiently for yours....lol!
Hope you like it! Apologies for the late upload, was still gathering my thoughts from watching the film haha
Loved it. And I can't wait to see it again on imax.
As time passes I like it more and more.
Honestly it's pretty basic in terms of plot, just all the theatrical stuff puts people off because they are more used to generic hollywood stuff.
Interesting timing considering the recent arrest of Diddy and the revealing facts about his parties.
this is an analysis i i did just after seeing the film a few days ago, i am glad it mostly aligns with your take. "I saw Francis Ford Coppola's (think The Godfather and Apocalypse Now) new film, Megalopolis, today and would love to hear other people's take on it. Here are mine. It starts slow, with a disjointed, collage-like approach that nearly put me to sleep in the first half. I wasn't sure if I was watching scenes from a poorly made sequel of Joker or The Matrix. To be honest, I considered walking out-something I’ve only done once or twice in my life-but I’m glad I stayed. Someone nearby even started snoring, lol. Don't get hung up or distracted by the Roman and modern-day juxtapositions-maybe that's the intent-however, it’s largely symbolic. The film blends complex themes of political power, corruption, progress, and collapse with both historical and modern allegories. It starts sluggishly but gains momentum as deeper revelations unfold, much like social or political movements that begin with idealism but reveal layers of power and personal agendas.
The contrast between Caesar and Cicerro is key to the film’s message. Caesar advocates for progress, but his vision remains elusive, while Cicerro, once prosecuting Caesar for his wife’s death, is mistrustful and believes in maintaining the status quo. He seems tempered, however, by the weight of his past actions when his daughter, Julia Cicero, falls for Caesar after she realizes he is genuine. Clodio, Caesar's jealous cousin, also plays a pivotal role. While his character evokes echoes of Roman history, especially themes of power and betrayal, the film uses these historical references more symbolically to comment on modern political dynamics. The demagoguery and manipulation in Clodio’s actions feel like a loose adaptation of the power struggles we see in today’s society.
There’s also Wow Platinum, a seductive TV presenter specializing in financial news, who desires money and power. She manages to entangle herself with powerful men through her allure, playing a significant role in the film’s portrayal of manipulation and ambition. Her character feels like a critique of the role modern media plays in shaping society today.
Earlier in the film, there’s a scene suggesting the construction of a casino, showcased with a flashy simulation, which feels particularly apt. The film isn't without its flaws. Its collage-like style may feel overindulgent at times, and the early pacing could leave some viewers disengaged. Sometimes I think it could have been more engaging and authentic if handled by a film student with a much smaller budget (haha). The film seems to perk up when attention shifts to the auction of a singing girl’s virginity. Yet, it redeems itself as it moves toward more substantial themes, critiquing both the idealistic vision of progress and the manipulations that often accompany power.
n the end, Megalopolis delivers a thought-provoking message: even when progress seems naive or flawed, it remains essential. The experimental, fragmented style reflects the fractured nature of modern political discourse, where clarity and direction often get lost in the noise. A scene where a little boy asks for an autograph suggests that you can't stop ideas or dreams. This also connects to a broader theme in life: how do we stop time or keep things the same when everything feels perfect? How do we keep it from slipping away? Megalopolis seems to suggest that while you can't literally freeze those moments, the pursuit of progress and happiness, even if elusive, is what keeps life moving forward. The film even echoes political slogans we hear today: "We are not going back." It explores the blurred lines between progress and corruption-Caesar pushes for progress, but it remains out of reach, until the end, where, like in a fairy tale, his vision is realized."
I enjoyed the dream like qualities. It definitely took some time for me to drop into the world but I let myself, once there, I felt like I could see the vision. I don’t understand all the bashing that it has gotten. It may not be for everyone. I know I like strange and different movies. This one is definitely an experience.
Thank you so much for explaining this film. I’ve seen reviews, but they’ve all described it as a confused mess. I was hoping for a better explanation on what to expect, and you have approached this with sincerity, an open mind, and with intellectual curiosity. Not sure I’m going to like the movie, but your analysis has encouraged me to see it. Thank you ❤
This reviewer doesn't understand some of the basics of the story. What actually happens in the movie is: He dislikes the mayor's daughter until he finds out that she has the same magic power as him, which is called "T-Symmetry". when he discovers she is the only other person who has "T-Symmetry", after that Then they start to work together and become lovers. Because they are the only two people with that magic power. So they can do magic stuff together throughout it.
Or it's just plain... art and love freezes time
@ in that scene toward the beginning in his office, he’s totally uninterested until she discloses that she also is “T-Symmetry” (which is some time freezing superpower). From then on they often utilize
“T-Symmetry” together. But it’s defined as some super power, (and no other characters besides he and her are shown to have thst power)
@@sizzlepointz maybe it's a metaphor for their vision and hope to change the future
I did not enjoy this film, but I can absolutely appreciate the effort, passion and vision behind it.
I think that it should be considered that part of the skill of the film maker is ensuring your film connects with people and I think, in the case of Megalopolis, unfortunately it is just too inaccessible for most audiences. And that's not to do with the audience being too 'stupid' or impatient to understand - I think that this film was presented in such a way that it's confusing and causing audiences to disengage.
I really like the ideas at play in Megalopolis, but sadly, not the execution.
same here, I just felt like I didn't understand it. I think maybe with time and commentary from listening to others that understand the movie, maybe I"ll develop an appreciation for the film.
what was confusing?
@ryan9891 well, for me, I just didn't understand the symbolism he was using. It was great cinematography for sure, but I think I'm just not smart enough to get it
@ryan9891 part of me thinks it might be autobiographical with Cesar and Julia representing Francis and Eleanor. The extravagant parties we see at the beginning may represent Hollywood when Francis entered the business, and through it all he met Eleanor and she worked with him and their love conquered hollywood.
@@theclaybeartravels3596 that may be some interpretation of the movie, or even his intent. If that is his intent, it doesn't make the movie confusing. The plot is pretty straightforward.
Great review thanks! The rants are too easy for my taste. I enjoyed the movie and it stimulated my brain which hardly ever happens. This surprise mess chaos element really is unique and refreshing. I can’t stand predictability anymore. I enjoyed being utterly confused and really lost my mind and being forced to think and sort through it. A truly challenging movie
Oh man, I haven't seen one of your videos in years! Just got out of this movie and jeez have I ever required a debriefing
I loved every minute of it, hazyness and all.
Future Classic. It's an experience
Before seeing the film, before its release I predicted that it would panned at first, re-evaluated ten years from now, and considered a classic of 21st century filmmaking twenty years from now. Now that I've seen it I still think that's likely. I had some mini allergic reactions while viewing it but love FFC for the challenges. Above all I'm love with the film's scope, imagery, and above all artistic and intellectual audacity. In the future we'll say the movie was ahead of its time.
The "make Rome great again", was just so stupid and we get it, Hollywood hates Trump. I'm so tired of getting politics rammed down our throats
@@jd3jefferson556 Except, that's the Neanderthal tier level take. He's effectively been ousted from Hollywood and hired 'cancelled' actors intentionally. It's "Great Man" ethos undermines the leftist oriented content.
@@jd3jefferson556, interesting that you saw Trump referenced. Why not Harris?
You prove why people shouldn’t be allowed to vote.
Idk maybe the random depictions of Hitler era Germany in black and white? Some guy was literally cracking up in the theater during this moment@@barbaraallen5290
For this movie to be a success, it doesn't need to be reached by most people. It only needs to be reached by the RIGHT people, or person
Was it ever explained how Caesar's wife died?
How did he get shot in the eye and not die?
I don't get how the building of a utopia city has to do with the time stopping mumbo jumbo.
I have not seen it, but based on this I can imagine why people hate it. The story and style remind me of German expressionism (and obviously Metropolis), which is very far removed from what audiences expect today. It's clearly not reality-based and is full of metaphors and symbolism. That is kryptonite for Americans. The only way he could have made less money is by filming it with Italian actors with subtitles.
I have nothing against metaphors and symbolism. Some of my favorite films hinge on this very heavily. A somewhat recent one that comes to mind is The Lighthouse.
But this film just does a pisspoor job of making that symbolism palatable. Like I got the message of what he was saying but was confused at the same time, idk how else to explain it. There was so much that happened and didn’t really have much explanation. Like why is the Nazi symbolism supposed to represent the pleas of the people? Especially when the people that represent the lower class in this film are a mixed bag of races and ethnicities. It just felt jarring and unnecessary. The satellite crashing into the city just happens and then they don’t even mention it again throughout the rest of the film.
I understand what he was trying to accomplish with this movie but I think he was far too ambitious and wasn’t clear on what he actually wanted. It seems like this movie should’ve been 8 hours long so we could actually see the metaphors simmer a little bit. Because it’s just metaphor after metaphor, symbol after symbol, to the point where it’s just jarring and not all that effective. That coupled with the abysmal dialogue, and the shitty CGI it just doesn’t make for a very pleasant experience.
@@WickedIndigoi saw the nazi symbolism as a reference to how nazism started, as a “socialist” party that rallied the people under the lie that their leader cared about them and is fighting for bettering their lives while he’s in fact just trying to gain power
u forgot the debt cancellation which also symbolizes a profound shift in how the economy is set up and works- or even the economic system
I'm the statue at 0:45 Loved working on this movie and enjoyed watching it as well.
Wow that's incredible. You know while I was watching Megalopolis, one of my favourite shots in the film, or visual sequences was that moment Adam Driver's car went past the statue. It looked so impressive on screen! So cool of you to leave a comment and to see you in the film.
I found this movie interesting...
Yes Aunty Wow
Id like to see this
I think this was just a scene of a man regretting one moment too late his suicide and imaging in his mind he can stop time and what that would change…. The hope from the baby, is actually the opposite… no hope.
Great film, sad it’s getting so much hate
Incredibly tough watch
Short analysis. Cesar Catilina is Blackrock Wef, and the evil world puppeteers. The other corrupt characters are the excuse for the evil to take over and destroy the world.
Damn, thanks.
Its very strange to me that people think there was a jumbled plot. Like, what part specifically?
The colosseum scene for instance. Loooong scene of bad edits, characters jabbering nonsense, laughing, crying, screaming drunkenly, circus people dancing. Why was any of that necessary
@@therealmattdamon5161 Exactly. Why would the rich, politicians & society invest time in doing any of that? You would think their time would be better spent contributing to better society....
I forgot the quote, but before Cesar's drug scene, Julia asks him why he does 'that'. He responds that the people like him to be accessible, or to see him have fun? I think? Until they want him dead? I forget exactly but maybe, theres a reason in there somewhere.... Maybe not. Maybe the movie sucks. Maybe our society sucks. Maybe both. Could that be the point?
@@therealmattdamon5161ya why would people tune into celebrity awards shows, sports events, etc. crazy the populous eats these events up smh
This a movie where like, you Don't have to think about it too much. Cause it won't make sense anyway you look at it.
I could not disagree more. This is a film that doesn't get the credit it deserves because even though it couldnt be any more blatant, studios only chase comic book blockbusters, the audience has become so lazy in their interpretation of any message. I think it makes perfect sense & am frustrated at FFC's lack of mystery to barely leave any meat on the bone of interpretation. He obviously knows the audience better than me, because here we are.
I don't understand what people think doesn't make sense about it. It makes fine sense. Some aspects of it are a little abstract or stylized, there's a lot of metaphor and references to Roman history, Old Hollywood epics, and Shakespeare, etc... but there's a perfectly understandable plot and point to the movie. What is so confusing to you?
@AWSVids I honestly haven't seen the movie, but Lynch is like that, Eraserhead and Mulholland Drive don't make much sense. But they apparently do. I love those movies. Lynch says Drive makes sense, but he won't explain how.
Coppala did Twixt which is a confusing movie but I liked it.
To me it was a silent film just made today like the abstract esthetics, the pacing and characters quoting ideology all seemed very silent era to me. I'll keep an eye out for a directors cut maybe
I liked back to the future ❤all of them.
Can't they make good movies anymore?
WELL, IM LOST
It seems this film is Fellini and Ayn Rand on crack.
Everyone saying this movie is not hard to follow is b-sing I do not know what happened for any of that 😭
I love the themes but the story and messages could have been delivered so much better... it really came off like a fever dream...
The sad thing is: This explainer-video is actually better than the movie.
Or rather.. it paints a picture of what an awesome movie Megalopolis could have been.. if it wasn’t such a jumbled mess.
I really want to like it. But it just.. isn’t good. 😢
I think that is the bigger issue. People who enjoy it will explain it in a manner that makes the movie seem more than it actually is.
Meanwhile, those of us who had to sit through the ordeal of this disorganized bloated mess will see it for what it is:
A film art project for a famed director who made it fundamentally for himself and not for the general audience at large.
Dude it's a Roman play based on modern time. It's not written or acted in a modern way though thus. If this was made during the classical Roman time people would totally get it. We are all just used to simple movies like Marvel. But they are what are mean to be. This movie is not meant to be that.@@ScuffedF
@@Joshua.Developerwtf are you talking about why not make this classically like a Shakespeare play or keep it grounded like his godfather trilogy
@@1220THEMAN Because neither of those are ancient Roman or Greek style plays. Also well the director was high 90% of the time making this movie so maybe somebody needs to watch while loaded
I liked the movie. Not hard to follow but a bunch of people came to watch with a chipnon their shoulder based on some hostile reviews on youtube
The entire studio-led movie industry came at it with a chip on their shoulder about the fact that Coppola made it independently, but did so on a level high enough to compete with studio blockbusters. They had to destroy it. And they did. They trashed it at Cannes, which set off the negative media blitz that was no doubt led by studio connections in the media, studio-friendly movie critics, etc... this movie's chances at success were sabotaged from there. When in doubt, people will interpret an experimental movie like this negatively, when they're primed to see it as bad from what they've heard going into it.
Compare that to how an even weirder and more abstract, experimental movie like Poor Things was received by the Hollywood studio-led establishment. If people had been primed by bad reviews to think that movie was bad going into it, they wouldn't have given it much of a chance, the same way they did with Megalopolis. But because people hear that it's great despite the weirdness, people are willing to give it more of a chance. The power of suggestion is very strong with a movie like this. This is why time will ultimately tell the truth about it, and I can already see that the kind of people who are primed to really give a movie like this a chance, are liking it.
Sorry didn't mean that to be rude but you r my favorite breakdown ever so I wait and usually our likes align. Sorry
Anyone else feel Britney Spears vibes in the character of Vespa?
Def. Exploitation of teenage sexuality in media
Wow, this review is way too positive. By the end of the film, I couldn’t care less about any of the characters, and there was no convincing evidence that Caesar Catalina was some visionary architect. Coppola cashed in on wine and alcohol, saved a buck, and ended up producing this mess, which seems to glorify decadence and excess. Well, at least we have some other great films like The Godfather I & II and Apocalypse Now.
I really wanted to enjoy this movie and have something to think about, but it's incredibly predictable. It's also incredibly boring and slow. I think the majority of people that are going to pretend to like this movie are the ones that bash Marvel and like to pretend they are smarter than you at dinner parties.
Ohhhh what an idea, using natural shapes and forms in architecture. Trope. I've been to Hudson Yards and seen the Vessel. I get why people are jumping off it.
The actors did good, some of the shots are beautiful, and the costume and outfits are top notch. It is also celebrity packed, where even the side characters are notable actors.
But still, I wasn't left with anything new to think about. I wasn't inspired. I was just bored and have a crick in my neck from sitting for so long.
Megalopolis is about.... 2 and a half hours long.
#97th📽️🎥🃏💟🌪️🌪️
I HATE that the reviews on letterbox are so bad just because people don’t understand the film or are used to stupid hollywood clishé films…
This is a summary. There are no explainations
This movie is historic in a few ways. 1. It will rank among history's greatest egocentric ridiculous propaganda films with "Triumph of the Will" and
"Birth of a Nation".
This films goal is a common psyop piece that is intended to normalize a coming dramatic catastrophe (massive global war) and global shift (to global socialism) so people have a way to perceive what is about to happen perceive what is about to happen and hope to see it as a way to make sense of what is to come. It paints America as a failing empire like Rome was because of its character of greed and excess while workers took under ground ( Marxist herion 101 for the masses) Villainizing those who would want to maintain structure and patriot zealots. Meanwhile it's prescribing a new organic techno global communism's that seeks to not give any answers but just to ponder pompous philosophical non answers for the sheeple to be mesmerized by with shiny lights undefined moral ambiguity. Getting us ready for the coming global resents war that they can put into place.
Secondly the most fantasticly breathtaking horrible film to be studied and laughed at forever and realize that a young man can make 2 of the greatest movies of all time and the same old senile one can make the worst
This movie was not made for me. It was made for FFC and no one else.
okay so i didnt misunderstand it, it just wasnt good
You explained more in 5 min than I got out sitting and watching the movie for 45 min. It made no f’n sense while your sitting and watching it. It needed a narrator or something (which it sort of already had) but wasn’t utilized enough. The beginning of the movie feels like you accidentally were fast forwarded into the middle of the story with no one to explain what the heck is going on. I wasn’t sure if some things were real or just seen through characters vision of things. I did not get that NY was New Rome. We weren’t sure if this was the future or a made up time only that it was blending Art Deco time period, with the future and Roman Times. So yeah very confusing in terms of time and place. The script was so poor it felt like some of the characters (ie mayors daughter) were extremely shallow and overly simplified. Shia Labouf character looked awful. If your gonna dress a man in women’s clothing than make him look fabulous. He looked hideous and his character was nasty for no reason. His sister was all over the place. Incest is not cute. She started trouble then helped mayors daughter break into a building to get a document proving someone innocent of crimes accused of. Like make up your mind girl. Are you on the side of evil or justice? The whole time I’m sitting there, I’m like get to the point. No clear plot emerged, no character development, and scenes that made no sense. If I have to watch 2 hours to final make sense of the movie at the very end, it’s make my brain hurt and not worth the effort. I want to be taken for a ride with the storyline not constantly questioning what just happened? I waited months to see this and was greatly disappointed. Coppola should have worked with Christopher Nolan on this film. It had so much potential to be a freaking interesting film but fell short miserably. We unfortunately walked out half way through the movie. We never do that.
The info was good just movie wise.... it was ass
if j lo made this movie, people would have could her a crazy narcissist…. oh, wait …….
People dont understand the movie becuase it not a marvel movie. This is a classic heady Roman play based in a alternate modern day instead of rome. Think Romano and Juliette with leo.
They don’t understand it because it was edited by a mental institution patient, I actually appreciated the avant-garde approach to the storytelling through the editing even as I found it consistently hilarious and baffling in equal measures, but it comes at the cost of overall cohesion.
Yes the basic story is not that difficult to follow, and it’s nice to see a big budget movie completely break from any form of narrative convention and structure, but there are films that do it better and it only goes to show why the storytelling formula we have is used so often: when you do something interesting within it, you are very likely to create a great film.
This was experimental, and that is fabulous, but in my opinion, the experiment is pretty much held together by duct-tape and a weird cosmic force that was also responsible for keeping me engaged throughout. It’s an experience, but not one that is entirely successful in its aims I think.
Except that particular Romeo and Juliet was awful. For specificity that reason
@@stevefromyellowstone7911 Or maybe everyone should watch this stoned. I heard the director was
@@stevefromyellowstone7911
I have never liked that film, even in school I found it to be equal parts laughable and insufferable.
@@horrorfanandy4647 I remember watching it in class right after watching the one the made in the 60s or 70s or whenever it was, and the Leo one felt like they were trying to “scary movie” Shakespeare . Like satirize it or something . But it was awful even though it was full of great actors
Too dsmn bright
O there was a PLOT! Poor stupid me, I saw one view after another, never getting what this was supposed to be about. Maybe others are smarter than me. All I wanted the movie to do was END.
Perhaps you should stick with She Hulk and Captain Marvel.
Oooops, here come the 10-year olds.
@@marionmarino1616Because you can’t understand the film, we’re 10 year olds? You make no sense.
@@fireinthesky2333lmao I watch a lot of surreal films and I still think it was bad. What a weak take putting and assuming someone loves Marvel because they hate Megalopolis
@@fireinthesky2333 even She Hulk is better than this pretentious shit lol
You literally didnt explain anything because you really didn't understand the movie at all 🥴
Sounds like all the boring parts of the Matrix , even has Morpheus in it
Honestly, I'm not a fan of the message - to me, it's just unreasonable and useless claims about the nature of society and humanity told in a confusing way.
The story also seems to do a lot more hinting at ideas than showing what they mean.
No need to explain this movie, are you reta?
Beautiful set and filming and great actors however this movie is horrible and it makes no sense. I couldn’t finish. 😏
incredible butchering of Giancarlo Esposito’s name, Jesus Christ
Unhinged Bombastic fluff.
Worst movie ever made, certainly a candidate. I could only watch about 20 minutes at a time before shutting it down in disgust with the inane writing, flat acting and awful directing. Made my way through it on a dare, but took several evenings. Just plain awful movie.
New York City is not “New Rome”.
It's less about spoonfeeding a coherent, plot driven narrative to a dumbed down audience than capturing the spectacle of a crumbling civilization. It wasn't perfect by any stretch but all the whining from the "Marvel Universe" addicts just want yet another round of bland nostalgia mongering is sickening.
Bro it was bad lmao 😂 why you assumed that everyone just loves Marvel ? The film is a beautiful tragedy
This movie is worst than the worst Marvel movie ever made ..lol
@@lanalan4157 facts
@@lanalan4157 🤡 🤡 🤡
@@lanalan4157Dude it's a Roman play written and acted as one.
You explaining this, only makes the movie seem even more stupid
Lol...
Movie sounds gay
Nah sorry it is a bad film
the ending seemed rushed to me i didn’t really understand why the father (the mayor) changed his mind
It was hilarious how everything just switched so quickly. I was like “Hang on, what?” It completely bypassed me and I was fixed to the screen for the last half of the film due to how insane it was.
It was dumb af