Francis Ford Coppola, the acclaimed director behind cinematic classics, has been named the worst director at this year's Razzie Awards for his ambitious but ultimately disappointing film, Megalopolis. The self-financed project, which boasts a star-studded cast including Adam Driver, Shia LaBeouf, Aubrey Plaza, and Nathalie Emmanuel, came at a staggering cost of $120 million (£95 million).
Megalopolis, described as an epic fantasy featuring a paramedic with arachnid-based psychic powers, generated significant buzz after its trailer went viral in 2023 for its "laughably unsure tone." Critics had high hopes for the film, especially as it serves as a sequel to the acclaimed Joker (2019), starring Joaquin Phoenix. However, upon release, Megalopolis fell short of expectations, disappointing audiences and critics alike.
The Razzie Awards, known for "naming and shaming" the year's worst films, announced their winners just two days before the prestigious Oscars ceremony. The organizers describe the Razzies as the "ugly cousin to the Oscars," highlighting their role in scrutinizing Hollywood's less successful ventures. This year, Megalopolis was not alone in its misfortune; Madame Web took home the award for worst picture and also secured accolades for worst screenplay and worst actress for Dakota Johnson.
Coppola's selection as worst director reflects not only on Megalopolis but also emphasizes the unpredictable nature of filmmaking. In a statement regarding the film's reception, the Razzies remarked, "Even a cinematic maestro occasionally musters up a misfire."
In response to the criticism surrounding Megalopolis, Coppola expressed his artistic vision and intentions. He stated, "In this wreck of a world today, where art is given scores as if it were professional wrestling, I chose to not follow the gutless rules laid down by an industry so terrified of risk that despite the enormous pool of young talent at its disposal, may not create pictures that will be relevant and alive 50 years from now." He further emphasized that "box office is only about money, and like war, stupidity and politics has no true place in our future."
Other notable Razzie winners included Joker: Folie à Deux, which received two awards for Worst Prequel, Remake, Rip-off or Sequel and Worst Screen Combo. Pamela Anderson earned this year's Razzie halo for her performance in The Last Showgirl, while Jerry Seinfeld and Amy Schumer were named Worst Actor and Supporting Actress respectively for their roles in Unfrosted. Jon Voight was recognized as Worst Supporting Actor for his performances in Megalopolis, Reagan, Shadow Land, and Strangers.
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