Lionsgate apologizes for fake quotes in 'Megalopolis' trailer

Lionsgate has recalled the trailer for Francis Ford Coppola's upcoming film "Megalopolis" after it was revealed that several quotes attributed to prominent film critics were fabricated. The studio admitted to the error, stating, "We screwed up," and issued an apology to the critics and Coppola. The trailer, released on Wednesday, included misattributed quotes from critics like Roger Ebert and Pauline Kael, which were not found in their actual reviews of Coppola's previous works. This misrepresentation aimed to highlight the divisive nature of Coppola's earlier films, particularly following mixed reviews at the Cannes Film Festival. The quotes in question included Ebert's alleged comment about "Bram Stoker's Dracula" being a "triumph of style over substance," which he actually said about "Batman." Similarly, Kael's supposed critique of "The Godfather" was misquoted, as she had praised the film in her original review. Critics have expressed their discontent over the misrepresentation, with Owen Gleiberman stating that the trailer was built on a "false narrative." In addition to the trailer controversy, Coppola has faced scrutiny regarding his behavior on set during the filming of "Megalopolis." Reports surfaced of him allegedly kissing female extras during a club scene, which some crew members described as part of his effort to create a celebratory atmosphere. The film, a passion project for Coppola, is set to premiere in U.S. theaters on September 27, following its debut at Cannes.