Coppola's Megalopolis Spawns Graphic Novel: 'Sibling, Not Echo'

No 2024 film sparked as much debate as Francis Ford Coppola's ambitious Megalopolis. This visually stunning and conceptually daring epic became an instant conversation starter after its Cannes debut, dividing audiences with its unconventional vision. Now, the legendary director is reimagining his cinematic achievement in comic book form.

The graphic novel adaptation, titled Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel, arrives this October through Abrams ComicArts. Veteran comic writer Chris Ryall (known for adapting works by Stephen King and Clive Barker) pens the script while illustrator Jacob Phillips (Newburn, That Texas Blood) brings the dystopian metropolis to life visually.

"I entrusted Chris Ryall with the graphic novel adaptation on one condition - that it shouldn't simply mirror the film," Coppola explained. "I wanted it to become its own unique artistic expression while maintaining the spirit of Megalopolis. The creative team at Abrams ComicArts has achieved exactly that, proving how art continuously evolves through different mediums."

The story follows visionary architect Caesar (Adam Driver) as he battles conservative Mayor Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito) over the future of New Rome. Caesar dreams of building a utopian "Megalopolis", while the political establishment fights to preserve the crumbling status quo in this modern Roman allegory.

While not currently available on streaming platforms, the film can be purchased through major digital retailers. The graphic novel adaptation promises to offer fans a fresh perspective on Coppola's controversial masterwork.