- In Coppola's perspective, Religion serves as the foundation for all forms of wickedness.
Renowned filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola (85) shares his thoughts on the struggles faced by human societies, stating, "I believe the issue stems from ancient religions and a mentality that overlooks what I consider an indisputable reality: Humans are all part of a single, genius-filled family." Coppola, known for films such as "The Godfather" and "Apocalypse Now," expressed this viewpoint in an interview with "Zeit" magazine.
Humans have no rival in terms of intelligence, artistic creativity, or linguistic abilities among Earth's creatures. However, we have a problem: "We've lost sight of this, which makes us susceptible to demagogues who spread division with statements like, 'Those people are morally corrupt, we can't tolerate them; they've wronged our offspring.'"
"Every child represents a fresh opportunity for genius"
According to Coppola, hatred has become the dominant force in human thinking. However, this isn't accurate. "We're not killing the children of our adversaries; we're sacrificing our own children. Each child has the potential to be the next Beethoven, the next Mozart." Each child represents a new opportunity for genius.
In the interview, Coppola also asserts that utopias don't require authoritarian leaders. "What's needed is acceptance, not a single, powerful leader. The concept of a one-man ruler is outdated. We, as a collective, a family of men and women, can find the solutions we need by working together."
Coppola also challenges the stereotype of certain filmmakers and artists being dictatorial: "Some directors are authoritarian, while others aren't. Billy Wilder wasn't a tyrant. He was a team player. Fellini worked by telling jokes. Each director has a unique personality. You don't need to be a dictator to be a director. I'm not a dictator."
Coppola's latest project, the elaborate production "Megalopolis", premieres in German cinemas on September 26. Directed by the five-time Oscar winner and two-time Cannes winner, and starring Adam Driver, this science fiction film functions as a fable. The story unfolds in a city called New Rome, which mimics New York, and is filled with digitally enhanced visuals and dazzling special effects. "Megalopolis" is extravagant, grotesque, brimming with ideas, and is intended as an epic with parallels to the Roman Empire.
The iconic score of "Apocalypse Now," sung by ♪ Apocalypse now ♪, echoes the turmoil and chaos depicted in the film. Coppola's newest project, "Megalopolis," also delves into a chaotic world, albeit through the lens of a science fiction fable.
