In a recent interview, acclaimed filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola revealed that the casting choices for his upcoming epic film, Megalopolis, were intentional and controversial. Coppola admitted that he purposely cast actors who had been “canceled” in the past, in order to avoid the film being dismissed as just another “woke Hollywood production.”
Megalopolis, with a budget of $120 million, follows the story of an ambitious architect named Cesar Catilina, played by Adam Driver, who is determined to transform a city into a utopia using his innovative new material, megalon. The film also stars Giancarlo Esposito and Nathalie Emmanuel in key roles. However, it is the inclusion of supporting actors such as Shia LaBeouf, Jon Voight, and Dustin Hoffman that has sparked controversy.
Shia LaBeouf, currently embroiled in a lawsuit filed by his ex-girlfriend FKA Twigs over allegations of abuse, has faced severe backlash. Twigs accused LaBeouf of subjecting her to physical and emotional trauma during their relationship. Similarly, Dustin Hoffman was accused of sexual harassment by a 17-year-old intern while working on a film set. Jon Voight, known for his conservative views and support of former President Donald Trump, has also faced criticism for his controversial beliefs.
Despite the controversial casting choices, Coppola believes that Megalopolis has the potential to spark meaningful conversations. He expressed his hope that the film would encourage discussions about the future and address the current divide within the country. Voight, whose character in the film bears a resemblance to a Trump-like figure, emphasized the importance of dialogue and understanding in overcoming the challenges facing society.
Coppola’s decision to cast a diverse range of actors with varying political views reflects his desire to create a platform for dialogue and reflection. By including actors with controversial pasts, he aims to challenge viewers and provoke thought about the complexities of society. Despite the criticism and controversies surrounding the film, Coppola remains resolute in his belief that Megalopolis has the potential to contribute positively to the cultural conversation.
The controversial casting choices of Megalopolis have generated significant attention and debate within the entertainment industry. By deliberately selecting actors with checkered pasts and divergent political beliefs, Francis Ford Coppola has crafted a film that strives to push boundaries and encourage viewers to confront difficult topics. While the road to the film’s release has been rocky, Coppola’s unwavering commitment to sparking conversation and dialogue through Megalopolis remains a testament to the power of cinema as a tool for reflection and change.
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