Ever since it was announced that Francis Ford Coppola was sinking in his own cash to make his passion project, “Megalopolis,” there was always a question about what studio would be willing to distribute the film. Then, when it was part of Cannes and got somewhat mixed (to put it nicely) reviews, the question about distribution came up yet again. Well, we now know the studio willing to stick its neck on the line with Coppola—Lionsgate.
READ MORE: ‘Megalopolis’ Review: Francis Ford Coppola’s Epic Is A Madman’s Fever Dream [Cannes]
In a new announcement from Lionsgate, the studio has teamed up with Francis Ford Coppola to release “Megalopolis” in theaters (including IMAX screens). After working with Coppola on a variety of releases through the years, it shouldn’t be too much of a shock to see Lionsgate take the opportunity. Of course, with a budget said to be around $125 million and the polarizing reviews, it seemed silly to assume a major studio like Universal or Warner Bros. would come calling. That said, Lionsgate is still going to be able to put “Megalopolis” in front of millions of people, and that’s all Coppola has been hoping for.
“One rule of business I’ve always followed and prioritized (to my benefit) is to continue working with companies and teams who over time have proven to be good friends as well as great collaborators,” said Coppola. “This is why I am thrilled to have Adam Fogelson and Lionsgate Studios release ‘Megalopolis.’ I am confident they will apply the same tender love and care given to ‘Apocalypse Now,’ which is currently in its 45th year of astounding revenue and appreciation.”
The film features a star-studded ensemble cast that includes Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, Nathalie Emmanuel, 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.
“Megalopolis” is set to arrive in theaters on September 27.
Here’s the synopsis:
Megalopolis is a Roman Epic fable set in an imagined Modern America. The City of New Rome must change, causing conflict between Cesar Catilina, a genius artist who seeks to leap into a utopian, idealistic future, and his opposition, Mayor Franklyn Cicero, who remains committed to a regressive status quo, perpetuating greed, special interests, and partisan warfare. Torn between them is socialite Julia Cicero, the mayor’s daughter, whose love for Cesar has divided her loyalties, forcing her to discover what she truly believes humanity deserves.
