In a guest blog, city planner Noah Harper critiques the film “Megalopolis,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola, expressing disappointment in its failure to accurately portray the vital dialogue surrounding urban planning. Harper had hoped to see a rich narrative exploring the conflict between an architect and a mayor, reflecting the challenges of balancing preservation with necessary change in urban environments, especially amidst ongoing housing crises.
Instead, he describes the film as a “muddled, grandiose mess” that presents a few intriguing ideas but ultimately falls short in its execution. Within the fictional New York City backdrop, the architect, played by Adam Driver, presents grand plans for a new neighborhood, highlighting the importance of democratic discussion in urban design. However, Harper notes that the film fails to translate this ideal of community engagement into practice, portraying a disconnect between planners and the citizens who are supposed to benefit from their plans.
He points out that the portrayal of everyday people in the film is oversimplified, depicting them only as a chaotic crowd rather than active participants in shaping their urban environment. For Harper, this reflects a broader issue in the planning profession, where public engagement is often neglected, resulting in plans that serve the interests of a few rather than the community at large.
Harper concludes with a call for change within the planning field, advocating for an approach that genuinely involves the public in decision-making processes to create inclusive urban spaces. His reflections serve as a reminder that the success of urban planning lies not just in vision, but in collaboration.
This critique not only highlights the shortcomings of the film but also underscores the vital role of community engagement in urban development, indicating that the future of city planning can be brighter and more inclusive if lessons are learned from representations in media and practice. As cities continue facing challenges, there remains hope that a more participatory approach can lead to solutions that benefit all residents, fostering environments that reflect their needs and voices.