Coppola files libel suit against Variety over Megalopolis claims

Francis Ford Coppola has initiated a libel lawsuit against Variety, claiming that a July article falsely accused him of misconduct during the filming of his movie 'Megalopolis.' The article alleged that Coppola behaved unprofessionally on set, including attempting to kiss female extras and creating an environment where complaints of harassment could not be voiced. Coppola's lawsuit describes him as a 'creative genius' and asserts that the accusations stem from jealousy among others in the industry. The suit names the article's authors, Brent Lang and Tatiana Siegel, and argues that they either knowingly spread falsehoods or acted with reckless disregard for the truth, which is a standard for libel established by the U.S. Supreme Court. The article included claims that Coppola's financial arrangements for the film lacked traditional oversight, leading to an unprofessional atmosphere. Video evidence presented in the article showed Coppola interacting with young women on set, which was interpreted by some as inappropriate behavior. However, one of the women involved later stated that she felt uncomfortable with Coppola's actions, while another claimed that he did not make anyone feel uneasy. Coppola's representative has not provided immediate comments on the lawsuit, and the director himself has previously expressed reluctance to discuss the allegations, emphasizing his respect for women. The lawsuit highlights the impact of the allegations on Coppola's reputation, particularly given his esteemed career in filmmaking. 'Megalopolis,' which features actors Adam Driver and Nathalie Emmanuel, is a personal project for Coppola, who has invested significantly in its production. The outcome of this legal battle could have implications for both Coppola's career and the broader conversation about accountability in the film industry.