Exploring Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis: A Missed Opportunity?

After decades of planning and dreaming, Francis Ford Coppola's ambitious film Megalopolis finally premiered in 2024 at the Cannes Film Festival. Set in an alternate reality based on New York City, known as New Rome, the story follows an architect's utopian vision for the city, assembled against the backdrop of grandeur and chaos. Despite its ambitious scope and a staggering budget of at least $120 million, the film has been met with mixed reviews and is edging toward becoming one of the biggest box office bombs in cinematic history, grossing just over $11 million worldwide.

A Unique Yet Underutilized Character

One of the film's most intriguing aspects is the character of Wow Platinum, portrayed by Aubrey Plaza. Critics have noted that Plaza's performance stands out amidst the cast, which includes hefty talents such as Adam Driver and Nathalie Emmanuel. Plaza's character, an ambitious journalist involved with Driver’s character Cesar Catalina, brings a certain campiness essential to the film's tone. She dives into her role with a flair that balances humor and intensity. Her famous line, "You're anal as hell, Cesar. I, on the other hand, am oral as hell," exemplifies the quirky charm that Plaza is known for.

However, despite her engaging performance, critics argue that Megalopolis would have greatly benefited from a stronger female presence throughout the story. The character of Julia Cicero, played by Nathalie Emmanuel, is relegated primarily to the role of the love interest, lacking substantial character development. The film is largely dominated by male characters debating the city’s future, sidelining female perspectives that could have added depth and nuance.

The Case for Wow Platinum as Protagonist

Critics and audiences alike have speculated that if Wow Platinum were to serve as the film's protagonist, the narrative might have thrived under her dynamic essence. Plaza, who has carved out a name for herself with roles that blend comedy and drama, showcases that she not only understands the absurd nature of her character but thrives within it.

Having more scenes centered on Plaza's scheming and goal-oriented persona could well have transformed the film, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the otherwise stoic male cast. As it stands, Plaza's occasional moments in the spotlight amplify the glaring absence of agency for most of the female characters present.

Reflecting on Production Challenges

Plaza has openly discussed the chaotic filming environment of Megalopolis, detailing her discomfort and anxiety during production. She revealed that embodying Wow Platinum helped her cope: "I would transform into Wow... if you weren't, then you'd get eaten alive." This insight showcases her dedication to understanding and internalizing the character, even amidst the turbulent filmmaking process.

The opportunity to work with Francis Ford Coppola, a titan of American cinema, was not lost on her. In interviews, Plaza expressed admiration for Coppola's unique directing style, acknowledging both his magical storytelling ability and his desire to cultivate an enriching acting environment. This collaboration is a testament to Plaza's evolution as an actress, further evidenced by her success in multiple projects throughout 2024, including notable roles in My Old Ass and MCU’s Agatha All Along.

The Bigger Picture: The Future of Megalopolis

While Megalopolis has sparked debates about its artistic merits and notable shortcomings, many see Plaza's portrayal of Wow Platinum as a significant highlight. As audiences and critics reflect on the film years down the line, the character's potential as the focal point could be the key to appreciating Coppola's vision. Indeed, the film represents a realization of Coppola's long-desired dream, yet also serves as a reminder of missed opportunities, particularly in enhancing female representation within its narrative.

In conclusion, Megalopolis may be labeled as a misstep for Coppola, but it is Aubrey Plaza's standout performance that shines brightest. As the film's reception evolves, discussions about its feminist implications remain crucial, reiterating the importance of multidimensional characters that resonate with a broader audience.

Conclusion

Megalopolis is more than an artistic attempt by Coppola; it’s a reflection on how narrative decisions can impact character development and representation in film. While audiences grapple with its overwhelming scope and discouraging box office performance, one thing remains clear: Aubrey Plaza’s Wow Platinum steals the spotlight, highlighting what could have been if her character had been given the narrative weight she truly deserved.