A Surreal Screening

Stepping out from the premiere of Megalopolis, I felt like I had just emerged from a fever dream. The film, starring Adam Driver as Cesar Catilina and Nathalie Emmanuel as his love interest, is an ambitious tale set in a futuristic New York dubbed “New Rome.” But it’s not the plot that left me dazed—it’s how the movie unfolds.

Unexpected Theatre Intrigue

In the middle of the screening, something extraordinary happened. The screen went black, and applause erupted from a few in the audience who thought it was over. But then, with the lights still down, a man appeared on stage, holding a microphone as if for an impromptu Q&A session with Driver’s character.

• This strange occurrence had us wondering: Was this part of the film?
• It felt like a nod to pandemic-era Zoom meetings but was it necessary?
• The moment lingered, leaving an indelible mark on my experience and perhaps will too on future audiences.

Nathalie Emmanuel Shines

Despite the film’s flaws, Nathalie Emmanuel’s performance was a beacon of talent. Her portrayal brought a groundedness to Megalopolis that stood out against the more caricatured supporting roles.

I can’t help but hope this role opens up even bigger opportunities for her future.

Aubrey Plaza’s Commitment

Playing Wow Platinum, a character that could easily be dismissed as over-the-top, Aubrey Plaza brought sincerity and humor to the role. Her commitment made me wonder how anyone else could have approached such a challenging part with the same energy.

A Memorable Scene Involving Jon Voight

Jon Voight’s performance included one unforgettable scene involving a crossbow and an unintentional reveal. The absurdity of it all is what makes Megalopolis so peculiarly memorable.

The Aftermath: A Mixed Reaction

Post-screening, the audience was split. Some left before the credits rolled, while others stayed to express their disdain with boos or reluctant applause. The screening ended as dramatically as it began.

In the foyer, conversations buzzed and cameras flashed. “What the fuck was that?” one attendee muttered—a sentiment I echoed silently.

Why Megalopolis Stands Out

Despite its shortcomings, Megalopolis delivered an entertaining experience like no other. Its blend of ambitious storytelling and bizarre moments is precisely the kind of drama that defines Cannes.

Cannes is a place where filmmakers dare to push boundaries and audiences are invited to interpret them. Megalopolis may not be Coppola’s masterpiece, but it surely is his most audacious experiment yet—a testament to a lifetime of bold creativity.