Coppola's Megalopolis Expands to Graphic Novel: A Unique Companion, Not Mere Echo

In 2024, Francis Ford Coppola's "Megalopolis" emerged as one of the most polarizing films of the year. Since its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, it has sparked extensive debate, drawing both admiration and criticism. Now, Coppola is set to expand the universe of "Megalopolis" into a new medium: a graphic novel.

Titled "Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel," this adaptation will be published by Abrams ComicArts in October, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The graphic novel will be penned by Chris Ryall, renowned for his adaptations of works by Stephen King, Harlan Ellison, and Clive Barker. The illustrations will be crafted by Jacob Phillips, known for his work on "Newburn" and "That Texas Blood."

Coppola shared his vision for the project, stating, “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.” He further elaborated, “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.”

The story of "Megalopolis" revolves around a visionary architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is determined to construct a utopian city. His ambitious project pits him against the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who is intent on thwarting his plans to transform New Rome into Megalopolis. This narrative is framed as a modern-day Roman fable.

While the film "Megalopolis" is not available for streaming, it can be rented or purchased from various digital platforms where movies are sold.