Coppola's Megalopolis to Expand into Graphic Novel: 'A Sibling, Not Just an Echo'

In 2024, no film stirred as much controversy and discussion as Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. From its debut at the Cannes Film Festival last year, this bold, unique, and to some, bizarre epic became a focal point of both acclaim and criticism throughout the year. Now, Coppola is set to expand the narrative into a new medium with the upcoming release of a graphic novel adaptation.

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 project is being spearheaded by writer Chris Ryall, renowned for his adaptations of works by Stephen King, Harlan Ellison, and Clive Barker. The illustrations are being crafted by Jacob Phillips, known for his contributions to Newburn and That Texas Blood.

Coppola expressed his enthusiasm for the graphic novel, 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 praised the creative team at Abrams ComicArts, emphasizing the freedom of artistic expression and the potential to offer a rich, parallel experience to audiences and readers.

Megalopolis tells the story of a visionary architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is determined to construct a modern utopian city. His ambition, however, pits him against the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who seeks to thwart his plans to transform New Rome into Megalopolis. This narrative unfolds as a modern-day Roman fable.

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