Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola dropped the official trailer of his upcoming film Megalopolis on Tuesday, calling it his “best work” till date. Megalopolis is set to premiere in competition at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 17.
Sharing the video on Instagram, the Apocalypse Now director wrote, “Our new film MEGALOPOLIS is the best work I’ve ever had the privilege to preside over.”
The one-and-a-half-minute long trailer begins with a contemplative voice reflecting on the decline of empires, pondering the moment of their downfall and the loss of belief in their existence. The visuals keep changing from a Roman chariot race to the skyline of a bustling metropolis and scenes of social unrest.
The official synopsis describes Megalopolis as a modern American rendition of a Roman epic fable. Set in the city of New Rome, Megalopolis revolves around two contrasting figures: Cesar Catilina (Adam Driver), a visionary artist driven by the pursuit of an idealistic future, and Mayor Franklyn Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito), who staunchly defends the status quo entrenched in self-serving interests and divisive politics.
Caught in the midst of this ideological clash is Julia Cicero (Nathalie Emmanuel), the mayor's daughter and a prominent figure in the city's social scene. Her affection for Cesar complicates her allegiances, compelling her to confront her own beliefs about the fate humanity deserves.
Megalopolis, which marks Coppola's return to director’s chair after 13 years, features an ensemble cast including Aubrey Plaza, Shia LaBeouf, Jon Voight, Laurence Fishburne, Talia Shire, Jason Schwartzman, Kathryn Hunter, Grace VanderWaal, Chloe Fineman, James Remar, D.B. Sweeney and Dustin Hoffman.
