Legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola is making headlines again, this time not just for his epic cinema, but for recent developments that reveal both his frailty and undiminished creative fire. At 86, Coppola remains active, controversial, and driven to reshape his latest work—while reassuring fans about his health.
Health Update in Rome
Earlier this August, Francis Ford Coppola traveled to Rome for a scheduled, non-emergency medical procedure. His team clarified that this was not prompted by any sudden crisis. Reports in Italian media had suggested that Coppola suffered a mild cardiac arrhythmia before the procedure, but his representative denied those claims. After the procedure, Coppola was discharged from hospital and described as “feeling good.” On social media, he posted a photo of himself smiling, writing, “I am well.”
“Megalopolis” Review and Re-edit Plans
Coppola’s recent film, Megalopolis, continues to attract attention—not always for reasons he might prefer.
- The film’s budget was estimated at around $120–136 million, but box office receipts have fallen far short, grossing about $14.3 million worldwide.
- Critical reception has been mixed to negative, with many praising the ambition but criticizing its execution.
In response to public feedback, Coppola has expressed interest in re-editing Megalopolis to restore some of the more surreal or “dream” sequences that were cut from earlier versions. He has emphasized that since he owns the film outright, he can rework it in ways that align with his vision.
“Megadoc”: A Behind-the-Scenes Documentary
To coincide with the renewed interest in Megalopolis, a documentary titled “Megadoc” directed by Mike Figgis has been unveiled.
- Megadoc shows the chaotic, ambitious making of Megalopolis, including Coppola’s unorthodox methods: improvisation, spontaneous performances, and reliance on physical sets over CGI.
- The documentary premiered at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival in August 2025.
- In the United States, Megadoc will receive a limited theatrical release starting September 19, 2025, courtesy of Utopia in partnership with Lionsgate. As part of this, Megalopolis will also be re-released.
Broader Position & Legacy
These developments arrive while Coppola continues to be celebrated by his peers. Earlier this year, he accepted the AFI Life Achievement Award, with tributes pouring in from Hollywood icons such as Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro.
His stance on Megalopolis, especially in defending its creative risks despite commercial failure, underscores the filmmaker’s longstanding commitment to artistic principle over mainstream trends. Coppola has never been one to chase box office numbers, and his willingness to re-edit the film reflects his determination to leave behind the version he truly believes in.
As Francis Ford Coppola navigates health, criticism, and legacy, his recent actions suggest he’s far from retiring. Megadoc promises to give moviegoers an intimate look at what it means to take risks in cinema, and Coppola’s desire to re-work Megalopolis shows he remains his own harshest critic—and biggest believer.
What do you think: should Coppola’s restored version of Megalopolis become the definitive one, or is the original’s rough edge part of its charm?