No 2024 film was as polarizing as Francis Ford Coppola's "Megalopolis." This audacious, singular, and to some, bewildering epic became an instant topic of debate after its premiere at last year's Cannes Film Festival, drawing both ardent praise and sharp criticism throughout the year. Now, the director is reimagining the story in a new format, with "Megalopolis" slated for release as a graphic novel.
The graphic novel adaptation, titled "Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel," will be published by Abrams ComicArts this October, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The story will be penned by Chris Ryall, renowned for his adaptations of works by major genre authors like Stephen King, Harlan Ellison, and Clive Barker. Illustrations will be handled by Jacob Phillips, the artist behind series such as "Newburn" and "That Texas Blood."
"I was delighted to entrust the graphic novel concept to the capable hands of Chris Ryall, with the understanding that while inspired by my film 'Megalopolis,' it shouldn't be bound by it," Coppola stated. "My hope was for the graphic novel to take flight on its own, with its own creative team, making it a sibling to the film rather than a mere echo."
"I believe Chris, Jacob Phillips, and the team at Abrams ComicArts have achieved just that. It reinforces my conviction that art cannot be confined; it is always a parallel expression and part of the rich offerings we can provide to our patrons, audiences, and readers."
"Megalopolis" centers on a visionary architect (Adam Driver) convinced he is destined to build a modern utopian city. His ambitions put him at odds with the city's mayor (Giancarlo Esposito), who is determined to thwart his plans to transform New Rome—a setting for this Roman-esque fable—into the metropolis of Megalopolis.
The film is not currently available on streaming services but can be rented or purchased through major digital movie retailers.
