Article Summary –
Director Francis Ford Coppola, at the premiere of his first film in over a decade, has shared his belief that the US is heading towards a self-inflicted collapse similar to that of the Roman republic. He argues that the political climate in America is mirroring the downfall of Rome and that the current shift towards “neo-right and even fascist tradition” globally is concerning. Coppola also highlighted the decline in the US’s film industry, with studios more focused on meeting debt obligations than creating quality movies.
Impending US collapse mirrors Rome’s fate: Francis Ford Coppola
Francis Ford Coppola, the renowned director, warns that America could lose its republic following a trajectory similar to the ancient Roman republic. “What’s happening in America…is exactly how Rome lost their republic thousands of years ago,” Coppola remarked at his film premiere.
Historical parallels in politics and government
America’s founders were greatly influenced by the Roman republic, neither wanting a king and instead opting for a republic. The US political situation is now at a precarious point, mirroring Rome’s collapse, Coppola suggests.
New Film: Megalopolis
Coppola’s film, Megalopolis, which premiered at Cannes, is an analogy of America’s political landscape. It draws on the Catiline conspiracy from ancient Rome, which attempted to overthrow the rules of the Roman republic in 63BC. The film is set in a futuristic metropolis resembling New York.
Relevance of the Film and Current Politics
The veteran director began his passion project in the 1980s but feels it has become more relevant due to current politics. “My feeling was to make a Roman epic set in modern America…the politics of today make that so relevant.”
Similarities between Ancient Rome and Modern America
The Roman republic faced economic problems, corruption, and Julius Caesar’s rise as a dictator before its collapse. Coppola sees a rise in neo-right and fascist trends globally which he links to the horrors of WWII and warns against repeating such history.
Film Industry and Politics
Besides political culture, Coppola sees a decline in the film industry. He criticizes studios for prioritizing debt payments over quality productions. Newer companies like Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft have stepped in but their support may not be permanent. He predicts that many known studios may not survive into the future.
Megalopolis Reviews and Coppola’s response
Megalopolis received mixed reviews. Coppola, however, remains unregretful about the $120m self-financed project. He stated, “When I die, I’m going to say: ‘I’ve got to do this and I’ve got to see my daughter win an Oscar and I’ve got to make wine and I’ve got to make every movie I wanted to make.”
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