Francis Ford Coppola hasn’t had a huge commercial movie in a long time. Most people probably don’t even remember he directed the 1996 Robin Williams-starring flop, “Jack,” and the filmmaker has kept a lower profile in recent decades. “Megalopolis” was meant to be a return to form, but these allegations could upend distribution plans for the movie, lest audiences don’t want to support a man accused of inappropriately kissing and hugging women. There’s also the disheartening matter of Coppola being a staunch supporter of convicted child molester Victor Salva, who served 15 months in prison for his crimes.
The conviction occurred in 1988, yet Coppola served as an executive producer on 2001’s “Jeepers Creepers,” a film Salva directed. And then there are the several problematic actors cast in “Megalopolis.” Shia LaBeouf is in the movie, even after he’s done many terrible things fans can’t forget, such as being accused of perpetrating physical and emotional abuse toward FKA Twigs. “Megalopolis” also stars Dustin Hoffman, whom several women have accused of sexual harassment and assault.
It’s possible “Megalopolis” may be too controversial for a mainstream U.S. distributor to give it a mass release, let alone try to position it on the awards circuit. That’s even assuming the movie is good to begin with, which … who knows at this point. But with so much going against it, it’s possible Coppola’s potential final film will end his career not with a bang but a whimper.
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
