With just two months remaining before the release of “Megalopolis,” director Francis Ford Coppola is facing scrutiny over his conduct on set. Newly surfaced videos show the acclaimed filmmaker allegedly attempting to kiss young female extras during the filming of a nightclub scene for his ambitious sci-fi epic. Variety has obtained the videos, which were recorded by a crewmember last year during a scene shot at Atlanta’s Tabernacle concert hall.
The videos corroborate a report by The Guardian, which claimed that the 85-year-old director “tried to kiss some of the topless and scantily clad female extras” and said he was “trying to get them in the mood.” The Guardian’s story was released just before “Megalopolis” was set to make its world premiere in Cannes.
According to two sources who spoke with Variety, Coppola’s behavior on set appeared unchecked due to the unique nature of the film’s financing. Coppola financed the $120 million production entirely out of his own pocket, bypassing traditional studio oversight and its associated checks and balances.
The scene in question, filmed on February 14, 2023, involved actresses who had been “cleared for topless nudity” and others “cleared for scantily clad” attire. Sources claim that Coppola’s behavior was highly unprofessional. One source, who was present during the nightclub scene, estimated that 150 to 200 people were on set when Coppola began directing. The filmmaker reportedly jumped up to hug and kiss several women, often disrupting the scene and causing delays.
“I’ve worked with important directors, and that behavior is uncommon,” the source said. “The most I’ve ever seen is a director saying, ‘High energy, guys.’ I’ve never seen anyone on set, including camera operators, touch an actor.”
The source further revealed that Coppola used a microphone to announce to the entire room, “Sorry, if I come up to you and kiss you. Just know it’s solely for my pleasure.”
A spokesperson for Coppola declined to comment on the videos or the claims of inappropriate behavior. However, a source close to the director pointed out that despite the recent death of Coppola’s wife, Eleanor Coppola, in April, “Megalopolis” was completed on time and within budget.
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Coppola’s team provided statements from two individuals involved in the production. Darren Demetre, an executive producer, described Coppola’s actions as part of creating an authentic atmosphere for a “celebratory Studio 54-esque club scene.” Demetre stated, “Francis walked around the set to establish the spirit of the scene by giving kind hugs and kisses on the cheek. I was never aware of any complaints of harassment or ill behavior.”
Mariela Comitini, the film’s first assistant director, praised Coppola, describing the working environment as “vibrant, professional, and positive.” She noted, “As one of the industry’s most well-respected master filmmakers, Francis was undaunted by the enormity of this undertaking.”
However, sources challenge this portrayal of professionalism. Crew members reportedly felt uneasy as Coppola kissed and embraced background actors. Despite their discomfort, no one publicly objected, possibly due to Coppola’s significant control over the production.
“Because Coppola funded it, there was no HR department to keep things in check,” said a second source. “Who were they supposed to talk to? Complaining to Coppola would mean reporting to himself.”
Samantha McDonald and Ashley Anderson, the film’s intimacy coordinators, were not present during the nightclub scene. McDonald told Variety she was unsure why they were not on set that day.
Following the scene, senior crew members reportedly expressed concerns after discovering that videos of Coppola’s behavior were circulating. Crew members were reminded of their non-disclosure agreements, which prohibited sharing behind-the-scenes footage.
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Veteran intimacy coordinator Yarit Dor, who was not involved with the film, commented on the situation. “It is recommended that scenes with nudity involving extras have more than one intimacy coordinator,” Dor said. “One coordinator alone cannot effectively oversee and choreograph intimate actions for so many people.”
A source close to Coppola insisted that an intimacy coordinator was present during relevant shooting dates.
Lionsgate acquired domestic distribution rights for “Megalopolis” in June and has scheduled the film for release on September 27. Coppola, who will cover the film’s marketing costs, was seeking a fourth-quarter release to qualify for awards. The film, starring Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, and Jon Voight, is anticipated to compete in below-the-line categories.
“Megalopolis” represents the latest work from Coppola, the Oscar-winning director of the “Godfather” trilogy. Last week, Coppola was named a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors, with the ceremony set for December 8 in Washington, D.C.
“I consider myself very fortunate to have been able to collaborate with great artists and wonderful people throughout my career,” Coppola said in a statement about receiving the honor. “I have never stopped learning.”
