Anna Daniels
Francis Ford Coppola’s highly anticipated movie, “Megalopolis,” is nearing its release in four weeks, marking his return to the big screen. However, the excitement has been overshadowed by a marketing misstep that has garnered attention from both fans and critics alike. The trailer for the film included praise from critics that were later revealed to be computer-generated.
The individual responsible for the misleading quotes, Eddie Egan, a marketing consultant, was dismissed after it was discovered that the quotes were not authentic and had been generated by artificial intelligence. This revelation has caused a stir, especially given Egan’s close ties to Lionsgate and his lengthy collaboration with Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate’s film group chair. Despite the swift removal of the trailer by the studio, the incident has had repercussions.
The incident has sparked a debate about the ethical implications of using AI in filmmaking. While AI can streamline processes, this incident highlights the risks associated with relying on it for tasks as crucial as crafting reviews, which play a significant role in shaping public opinion. Unfortunately for Egan, this gamble did not yield positive results.
“Megalopolis” is a pivotal project for Coppola, who is personally financing a significant portion of the film. The subdued marketing campaign for the movie has now been eclipsed by the AI-generated quote debacle, drawing attention to the film but not necessarily in a positive light.
As the release date approaches, the response from Lionsgate and the potential release of a new trailer remain uncertain. Despite the controversy, the star-studded cast, including Adam Driver, Forest Whitaker, and Nathalie Emmanuel, hints at a promising cinematic experience. The film is scheduled to debut on September 27, 2024, and audiences eagerly await to see if it will live up to Coppola’s esteemed reputation.
