Francis Ford Coppola admits to kissing women on Megalopolis set but denies allegations of unprofessional behavior
As an ardent admirer of Francis Ford Coppola, I must say that this latest controversy surrounding him feels like a storm brewing in the serene waters of his illustrious career. Having grown up watching The Godfather trilogy and Apocalypse Now, I’ve always admired his audacity to push boundaries and create cinematic masterpieces that resonate deeply with audiences.
A mere month following allegations and footage from the Megalopolis set suggesting inappropriate behavior by director Francis Ford Coppola, he’s now breaking his silence.
The acclaimed 85-year-old director, known for financing his ambitious $120 million production from his personal wealth, is said to have inappropriately kissed cast members and created an uneasy atmosphere on the film set.
Two videos emerged a few days ago, appearing to depict the movie’s director engaging in kisses with women on a movie set during a nightclub scene, slated for theater release on September 27.
In a comprehensive conversation with Rolling Stone, the director of The Godfather has refuted multiple accusations that were initially published by The Guardian, stating emphatically that their report was entirely false.
In my own words, I’d express it as: “Upon reading that article, you’ll come to understand that the individuals who supplied the quotes for that Hollywood Reporter piece, about all those people being fired or resigning, and the alleged mass exodus – well, I can’t say for certain who they were, but it appears to be the same group.” (Coppola’s statement)
Essentially, what he was saying is that there was a misunderstanding. He clarified that when people are questioning him about the New Year’s incident, he was referring to young women he already knew, not implying any romantic involvement or inappropriate behavior when he kissed them on the cheek.
The director commented, “This whole situation seems absurd. Notice how that article was published just as our movie was set to debut at Cannes. They’re clearly attempting to tarnish the film’s reputation.”
When asked about intentionally ruining a photo, Coppola clarified that he simply doesn’t abide by the regulations established within Hollywood.
He stated that there’s a common pattern in Hollywood where they suggest, if you adhere to our guidelines, your chances of achieving success will be significantly higher.
“As for Francis, he doesn’t adhere to your guidelines.” He added that such critics would face consequences, specifically, they would experience failure.
He expressed a desire for innovation, stating, “I’m aiming for something fresh. The cinema of the future will transform drastically compared to what we experience today. The films your grandchildren will create will bear little resemblance to those we see now.”
The initial report included a source who claimed that after he kissed several women during the scene, Coppola announced into a microphone, ‘Sorry, if I come up to you and kiss you. Just know it’s solely for my pleasure.’
Because Coppola funded the project entirely on his own, neither a human resources department nor any studio intervention were present at all.
In the movie production, Samantha McDonald and Ashley Anderson served as intimacy coordinators, but they weren’t present during the nightclub scene.
In simpler terms, McDonald told Variety, “I can’t explain exactly why they decided to involve us at that moment instead of another.”
One of the women featured in the two videos, Rayna Menz, posted an Instagram statement saying, ‘The accusations about @francisfordcoppola are false; it was a privilege to work with such a legendary figure,’ she stated. ‘This video was filmed on a SET that was closed off and did not allow personal phones (for the safety of all actors). I am appalled by these claims, and I hope everyone will see the reality behind them.’
Nevertheless, another actress, Lauren Pagone, asserted that he drew her close and embraced and kissed her instead.
Initially, I was taken aback. His sudden display of affection – the kiss and hug – wasn’t something I had anticipated. I found myself unprepared for the situation. Moreover, let me share that he made unexpected visits on more than one occasion.
She commented on Menz’s statement, saying, ‘I don’t take kindly to someone voicing my opinions. I wouldn’t dream of speaking on behalf of that actress. I’ve remained silent. I’ve stayed quiet. It’s aggravating when she claims, “It was wonderful for everyone,” not knowing how others felt. One can only speak for themselves. My experience was distinctly different.’
Read More
- MANA PREDICTION. MANA cryptocurrency
- EWT PREDICTION. EWT cryptocurrency
- SUPER PREDICTION. SUPER cryptocurrency
- Silver Rate Forecast
- COW PREDICTION. COW cryptocurrency
- EUR JPY PREDICTION
- DEXE PREDICTION. DEXE cryptocurrency
- ASTR PREDICTION. ASTR cryptocurrency
- GBP EUR PREDICTION
- EUR PLN PREDICTION
2024-08-27 08:03