Coppola's Megalopolis Expands to Graphic Novel: 'Sibling, Not Echo'

There was no movie released in 2024 as divisive as Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. The bold, unique, and, to some, bizarre epic became a focal point of discussion immediately following its premiere at last year's Cannes Film Festival. As the year unfolded, Megalopolis garnered both fervent praise and sharp criticism. Now, the visionary filmmaker is set to reintroduce the story in a new medium: a graphic novel.

The graphic novel, titled Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel, is slated for release by Abrams ComicArts in October, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Chris Ryall, renowned for his adaptations of works by Stephen King, Harlan Ellison, and Clive Barker, will pen the narrative. The illustrations will be crafted by Jacob Phillips, whose previous works include Newburn and That Texas Blood.

"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," Coppola stated.

"That’s what I feel Chris, Jacob Phillips, and the team at Abrams ComicArts have accomplished. It confirms my feeling that art can never be constrained, but rather always a parallel expression, and part of the bounty we can make available to our patrons, audiences, and readers."

Megalopolis follows the journey of a forward-thinking architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is driven by a vision to construct a modern utopian city. His ambitious plans to transform New Rome into Megalopolis clash with the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who is determined to thwart his efforts. The narrative weaves a Roman fable, adding depth and intrigue to the storyline.

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