Admirable and alienating, Megalopolis has themes without coherent drama or plot. The Shakespearean-esque dialogue is difficult. Characters are shallow metaphors. Side threads go nowhere. Despite classical narrative devices, everything feels cold. Still, there's artistic ambition here (even if it's pretentious or self-indulgent). No matter how misguided, this came from a singular voice trying to create something meaningful. It's personal, sincere, and uncommercial. Meanwhile, the acting is hard to assess because it's so overshadowed by the chaotic material. The performances aren't tonally in sync, but they're committed. Thus, Megalopolis is more a pile of ideas than a story.
Technically, Megalopolis offers unrestrained vision. The editing fails to sustain momentum despite all its flair. Its music is eclectic and fitting, yet it's lost amongst the confused emotions. The cast's ample fame is dampened by their questionable cohesion. Although abundant and aesthetic, its effects can be distracting. Even the beautiful and creative imagery is slightly undercut by muddled messages. Its sound makes strong use of symbolic motifs and distortions. Finally, the production design blends Roman influences, Art Deco, and surrealism into a unique style that withstands the film's shortcomings. Ultimately, Megalopolis's paradoxical nature almost defies review.
Writing: 5/10
Direction: 7/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 6/10
Editing: 7/10
Sound: 9/10
Score/Soundtrack: 7/10
Production Design: 10/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 7.6/10
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