Footage has emerged of Francis Ford Coppola trying to kiss an extra on the set of his upcoming film Megalopolis.
Variety published a video on Friday evening of the director approaching a female extra during the filming of a nightclub scene and appearing to lean in for a kiss.
The 85-year-old filmmaker, renowned for The Godfather trilogy and Apocalypse Now, is now facing allegations of inappropriate behaviour on set of his epic sci-fi production.
A previous report in The Guardian suggested that such conduct is not uncommon for Coppola's "old school" methods, which he reportedly uses to get his cast "in the mood".
He is alleged to have told the cast: “Sorry, if I come up to you and kiss you. Just know it’s solely for my pleasure.”
Coppola has also been said to have ruined takes by inadvertently inserting himself into the shot when he “leapt to hug and kiss” women.
“I’ve worked with really important directors and that behaviour is uncommon – the most I’ve ever seen any director do is say something like, ‘high energy, guys,’” a source told the Guardian.
“I’ve never seen anyone on set, and this extends to a camera operator, so much as touch an actor.”
Coppola, who is father to the arthouse director Sofia Coppola, has been working on Megalopolis for more than 40 years.
His passion project has been largely self funded with the director needing to sell off vineyards to reach the $120m needed.
Adam Driver, Aubrey Plaza, Laurence Fishburne, Nathalie Emmanuel and Dustin Hoffman are among the all-star cast.
Megalopolis is set to open in September having premiered in May in Cannes to mixed reviews, with the Evening Standard giving it one star.
“Because Coppola funded it there was no HR department to keep things in check,” an insider told Variety.
“Who were they supposed to talk to? Complain to Coppola and report Coppola to himself?”
Representatives for Coppola have shared two statements.
The first was from executive producer Darren Demetre which read: "There were two days when we shot a celebratory Studio 54-esque club scene where Francis walked around the set to establish the spirit of the scene by giving kind hugs and kisses on the cheek to the cast and background players.
“It was his way to help inspire and establish the club atmosphere, which was so important to the film.
“I was never aware of any complaints of harassment or ill behaviour during the course of the project.”
The second statement, from first assistant director Mariela Comitini, said: “I watched as Francis created a vibrant, professional, and positive environment on set.”
