17TH BOOK READ IN 2024
I started reading this book before MEGAOPOLIS was finished filming or even talked about or reviewed or being presented. I just wanted to read about Francis Ford Coppola. I never really read a book about him per se, more about individual films of his like APOCALYPSE NOW, and THE GODFATHER FILMS. Even THE COTTON CLUB and BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA.
So obviously the making of his films has never been a great mystery. As he has always been open about his creative process. As it seems he takes as much glee in it. As a storyteller.
So now that MEGAOPLIS is done filming and being previewed in film festivals, that movie or coming out and seems to be pretty much a mixed bag as far as reviews. though, what really makes it so interesting is that it seems like his artistic touches, ideas and betting on himself are truly shown at least the genesis of them to get more of an overall psychological view of him that this book provides. When it comes to certain projects that are more of a challenge and experimental in nature.
He has always been an experimental artist who happens to be able to tap into mainstream times when needed, but he has always wanted to be an artist and other artists and make them more of a sense of community and storytelling.
This book isn’t a book that goes through each and every aspect of film of Francis Ford Coppola’s career. It does mention them, but it focuses mainly on his childhood, his first few films Apocalypse Now and ONE FROM THE HEART, as well as talking details of MEGAOPOLIS. That one wonder was part of an advanced promotion for that film.
As it seems this book is more the story of his ZOETROPE studios and Francis Ford Coppola, the maker. The goals and philosophy behind
It. It’s up & downs. As well as it’s rise & fall. While there is nothing wrong with that. I’m just trying to warn people before necessarily reading the book and finding it’s not what They wanted to know, especially if it’s more about the filming of PEGGY SUE GOT MARRIED or TUCKER, A MAN AND HIS DREAM. you’re going to be sadly disappointed.
Though, I do have to give the journalist Sam
wasson major points, because he talks about every aspect of production of APOCALYPSE NOW. ONE FROM THE HEART and bits the filming of Megapolis talking about how it’s gestation over the years, not necessarily in great detail or outline. It does mention a little bit of THE OUTSIDERS & RUMBLE FISH. As well as FINIAN’S RAINBOW and working with Roger Corman.
As well as majorly telling the story of Zoetrope Studios and projects that were made, and some that sadly either didn’t or morphed into other projects. You get some details, you don’t get a deep dive into those projects, but you get enough to quench your thirst. It also informs you about his family and the dynamic of his youth. It’s more about his personal life and a bit more about finances over the years.
I will be honest. I didn’t know what I was getting into exactly. I thought this was an all-around biography. I am happy with the information that the book provides. I will admit sometimes it felt a little draining. When it got into some of the behind-the-scenes details on the technical side. It provides a glimpse into Francis Ford Coppola as an artist who always wanted to build a film community and technology for the greater good. it also shows a massive ego that means well, but times get the better of him, trying to prove himself and trying to be better than others or at least at the forefront of change. Not to mention glimpses into his creativity love of theater and freedom of artistic expression.
The book does talk about his relationships with his family and his marriage, which is another nice insight into the fan of Francis Ford Coppola. You’ll enjoy it and I think if you’re interested in his creative process. This will be rewarding.
As the book truly does live up to it’s title.
Grade: B
Mainstream Foreigner 