Francis Ford Coppola denies misconduct allegations of inappropriate behavior on Megalopolis set, says 'I’m not touchy-feely'

(Image via X)

Legendary auteur, and the Godfather of the “The Godfather,” stunned the 77th Cannes Film Festival this year with his long awaited “Megalopolis.” The film received a thunderous 7 minute standing ovation at its screening but it nonetheless had a divisive response.

Ahead of its premiere and its wide share of schismatic reactions, there were allegations made towards the 85-year-old director. A report was published by the Guardian last month which highlighted a tumultuous atmosphere on set, with many visual effects and art team members departing midway through the production. Adding to the controversy, the report detailed instances of director Coppola exhibiting "old school" conduct. Allegedly, he invited several women on set to sit on his lap and, on one occasion, attempted to kiss some of the topless and minimally dressed female extras. Coppola defended his actions by stating he was "trying to get them in the mood.”

In an interview with the New York Times, however, Coppola denied the accusations and allegations being brought up on him. As reported by NYT, it said that the “Apocalypse Now” director answered in a “rambling fashion” by alluding to his mother’s values that were instilled in him.

“She looked like Hedy Lamarr [Italia Coppola]. I have the picture. But my mother told me that if you make an advance toward a woman, it means you disrespect her, and the girls I had crushes on, I certainly didn’t disrespect them. I’m not touchy-feely. I’m too shy.”

The article continues, revealing that Coppola, when asked for more details, mentioned that the photograph of one of the young women he kissed on the cheek was actually taken by her father. He also noted, "I've known her since she was nine years old.”

Darren Demetre, who served as an executive co-producer, issued a response denying the allegations. He asserted that he was "unaware of any harassment complaints" throughout the production process. Demetre, defending Coppola, emphasized his longstanding professional relationship with Francis and his family, spanning over 35 years. “I have known and worked with Francis and his family for over 35 years. As one of the first assistant directors and an executive producer on his new epic, ‘Megalopolis,’ I helped oversee and advise the production and ran the second unit.”

"There were two days when we shot a celebratory Studio 54-esque club scene where Francis walked around the set to establish the spirit of the scene by giving kind hugs and kisses on the cheek to the cast and background players," Demetre said at the time, in part. "It was his way to help inspire and establish the club atmosphere, which was so important to the film. I was never aware of any complaints of harassment or ill behavior during the course of the project.”

Demetre continued, "There were two days when we shot a celebratory Studio 54-esque club scene where Francis walked around the set to establish the spirit of the scene by giving kind hugs and kisses on the cheek to the cast and background players. It was his way to help inspire and establish the club atmosphere, which was so important to the film. I was never aware of any complaints of harassment or ill behavior during the course of the project.”