Actor Robert De Niro did not hold back during a recent discussion at the New York premiere of Francis Ford Coppola’s highly anticipated film Megalopolis. Known for his outspoken political views, De Niro seized the opportunity to make a powerful statement about Donald Trump, labeling the former president as a destructive force in American politics.
Kicking off the conversation, De Niro quipped, “Just imagine Donald Trump directing this film.” He quickly pivoted to a more serious tone, asserting that Trump’s involvement would lead to chaos: “It’ll never go anywhere, from total craziness. He cannot do anything.”
The Oscar-winning actor elaborated on his critique, claiming, “He cannot hold anything together … He wants to destroy the country. And he could not do this movie. He could not do anything that has a structure.” De Niro’s remarks highlight his long-standing animosity toward Trump, which he has frequently expressed in various interviews and public appearances.
The actor went on to draw historical parallels between the current state of American democracy and the fall of the Roman Republic. “What’s happening in America, in our republic, in our democracy is exactly how Rome lost their republic thousands of years ago,” he stated, underscoring his belief that the challenges facing the U.S. today mirror those of ancient Rome.
De Niro emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging citizens to engage actively in the democratic process. “I see the things in Francis’ film about that, the parallels and so on,” he said, referencing themes of political decay and societal collapse that are explored in Megalopolis. He added, “To me, it’s not over ’till it’s over, and we have to go at this wholeheartedly to beat the Republicans – those Republicans, they’re not real Republicans – and beat Trump.”
His comments come at a time of heightened political tension in the United States, as the country gears up for the 2024 presidential election. De Niro’s passionate plea for civic engagement resonates with many who are concerned about the future of American democracy. “It’s that simple. We cannot have that type of person,” he declared, calling for collective action: “Everybody has to get out there and vote.”
De Niro’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among some segments of the entertainment industry, where many artists and public figures have openly criticized Trump and his policies. The actor’s comments serve as a reminder of the role that cultural figures can play in shaping political discourse, especially during critical election cycles.
In addition to his political statements, De Niro also expressed his enthusiasm for Coppola’s film, which has been described as a visionary project that examines themes of power, ambition, and the human condition. While the film itself tackles complex narratives, De Niro’s comments bring attention to the political climate that surrounds its release.
As the 2024 election approaches, De Niro’s call to action may inspire others in the entertainment industry to speak out against what they perceive as threats to democracy. The impact of celebrity endorsements and criticisms can be significant, potentially influencing public opinion and voter turnout.
Robert De Niro’s remarks at the Megalopolis premiere encapsulate a deep concern for the current political landscape in the United States. His passionate critique of Donald Trump and urgent call for civic participation reflect a growing anxiety among many Americans about the future of their democracy, as they prepare for what promises to be a contentious election season.
