Coppola's Megalopolis Flops, But Fans Crave One Last Ride

In a discussion on the KFI AM 640 radio show "Later with Moe Kelly," the panel delves into the disappointing box office performance of Francis Ford Coppola's passion project, "Megalopolis." The conversation then shifts to the importance of providing closure for beloved characters and franchises, using examples like the "Beverly Hills Cop" and "Star Wars" series to illustrate the value of giving fans one final, meaningful chapter.

Delivering Closure for Iconic Characters and Franchises

The Enduring Appeal of "Beverly Hills Cop"

The panel discusses the success of the "Beverly Hills Cop" franchise, particularly the importance of the final scene in the third installment, "Beverly Hills Cop III," which brought together the main characters for one last outing. They argue that this type of closure is crucial for fans, as it allows them to see their beloved characters one more time and provides a sense of completion to the story. The panel suggests that this approach could have benefited the recent "Star Wars" trilogy, which failed to bring the original characters together in a meaningful way.

The Missed Opportunity of the New "Star Wars" Trilogy

The panel expresses disappointment that the new "Star Wars" trilogy did not provide a proper sendoff for the original characters, such as Luke, Leia, and Han. They argue that the lack of a scene featuring all the principal characters together was a missed opportunity, as fans craved that final, emotional reunion. The panel suggests that if the filmmakers had taken the time to craft a satisfying conclusion for the beloved characters, the trilogy may have been more well-received.

The Importance of Honoring Iconic Actors and Directors

The discussion then turns to the recent passing of several influential figures in the entertainment industry, including Chris Christofferson, John Ashton, and James Earl Jones. The panel emphasizes the importance of honoring these individuals by providing closure for the characters and franchises they were associated with. They argue that giving fans one last chance to see these iconic actors and directors in their signature roles can be a fitting tribute and a way to celebrate their enduring legacy.

The Potential for a Final "Escape from" Movie

The panel also explores the possibility of a third "Escape from" movie, featuring Kurt Russell's character, Snake Plissken. They discuss how a final installment in the franchise could provide a satisfying conclusion for fans, allowing them to see the character one last time. The panel suggests that this type of project could be a way to honor the work of director John Carpenter and the enduring popularity of the "Escape from" series.

The Enduring Appeal of Cult Classics

The conversation also touches on the enduring appeal of cult classic films, such as "The Thing" and "Big Trouble in Little China," both directed by John Carpenter. The panel notes that these movies, which were not initially successful, have since gained a devoted following and are now considered classics. They suggest that this demonstrates the importance of providing fans with the opportunity to revisit and celebrate their favorite characters and stories, even if the initial reception was lukewarm.In conclusion, the panel's discussion highlights the value of delivering closure for iconic characters and franchises, as well as the importance of honoring the legacies of influential figures in the entertainment industry. By providing fans with a final, meaningful chapter, filmmakers can create a lasting connection and leave a lasting impression on their audience.