Megalopolis (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Francis Ford Coppola’s Long-Awaited Sci-Fi Epic
Francis Ford Coppola, the visionary director behind classics like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, returns with Megalopolis (2024), a passion project decades in the making. This ambitious film has been described as both a futuristic fantasy and a melancholic reflection on the cyclical rise and fall of civilizations. Despite its visual splendor, Megalopolis is a polarizing experience for viewers, with reactions ranging from awe to confusion.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, its critical reception, and where you can stream Megalopolis online, either via subscription or rental services in the U.S.
The Plot: Ambition Meets Chaos
Megapolis unfolds in a futuristic version of New York City, now called “New Rome.” At its center is Cesar Catilina (Adam Driver), a visionary architect with radical dreams of reshaping the city using a new sustainable material. His vision for a utopian “Megalopolis” contrasts sharply with the existing urban landscape, where power is held by a corrupt mayor, Franklyn Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito).
The film explores themes of ambition, societal decay, and the inevitable conflict between dreamers and the establishment. Cesar’s quest for innovation is hampered by Cicero’s political games, while personal dynamics further complicate matters, including Cesar’s romantic entanglement with Cicero’s daughter, Julia (Nathalie Emmanuel).
One of the most fantastical elements is Cesar’s ability to stop time, a power that gives him a god-like status but also underscores the theme of existential burden. His relationships and vision for the city face both internal struggles and external political pressures, leading to a climax that is as visually extravagant as it is thematically layered.
A Visual Feast
Coppola’s film is a spectacle, blending retro-futuristic visuals with classical influences. Cinematographer Mihai Mălaimare Jr. employs grandiose shots, from cityscapes that mimic ancient Rome to visually stunning moments like Cesar’s ability to halt time. The imagery is both confounding and breathtaking, with giant statues crumbling, futuristic skyscrapers towering, and color palettes that range from opulent reds to cold metallic hues.
However, while the film excels in visual creativity, the screenplay has been criticized for its incoherence. Viewers may struggle to follow the narrative, and the dialogue often feels more like philosophical musings than grounded conversation. The blend of lofty ideals and experimental filmmaking leaves Megalopolis feeling less like a traditional movie and more like an artistic exploration.
Mixed Reception: Love It or Hate It
Coppola’s Megalopolis has divided critics and audiences. Some praise its boldness and experimental nature, while others find it chaotic and pretentious. The film doesn’t pander to mainstream audiences, which might explain why it has been labeled both a masterpiece and a failure.
Adam Driver’s portrayal of Cesar has been particularly well-received, with critics highlighting his ability to bring gravitas to a role that could easily have become cartoonish. On the other hand, some supporting performances, particularly from Shia LaBeouf and Aubrey Plaza, have been described as inconsistent, struggling to find a foothold in the film’s surreal world.
Where to Watch Megalopolis Online
If you’re intrigued by this cinematic rollercoaster, there are several ways to watch Megalopolis online. In the U.S., the film is available on a variety of streaming platforms, both through subscription services and for rent or purchase.
Streaming Services
- HBO Max: Megalopolis is available for streaming as part of HBO Max’s library. Subscribers can watch it at no additional cost.
- Apple TV+: For Apple TV+ subscribers, Megalopolis is available as part of its premium film lineup.
Rental and Purchase
If you prefer to rent or purchase Megalopolis, here are some popular platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent Megalopolis for a 48-hour period or purchase it for unlimited access. Rentals typically start at $5.99, while purchases range from $19.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing, Vudu offers Megalopolis in both HD and 4K formats.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google’s platform allows for both rental and purchase, with prices similar to Amazon and Vudu.
Final Thoughts: A Bold, Flawed Vision
Megapolis is a film that won’t be easily forgotten. It’s a movie of grand ambitions, exploring themes that resonate deeply with the state of modern society, especially the clash between innovation and tradition. However, its ambition is also its downfall, as the film often feels disjointed and overly abstract.
For cinephiles, Megalopolis is a must-watch, if only to experience Coppola’s audacious vision. But for casual viewers, the film may prove too dense and self-indulgent. In either case, Megalopolis is a testament to Coppola’s enduring passion for cinema—a flawed masterpiece, but a masterpiece nonetheless.
