The highly anticipated film “The Apprentice” has released its first footage ahead of its theatrical debut on October 11th, and the buzz surrounding it is palpable. Directed by Ali Abbasi, the biographical movie presents a gritty portrayal of Donald Trump’s early years, focusing on his partnership with the infamous lawyer Roy Cohn. With Sebastian Stan taking on the role of a young Trump and Jeremy Strong portraying Roy Cohn, the film has already garnered substantial attention and divided opinions.
In the brief but telling clip, viewers witness Stan’s Trump confidently handling a phone interview in which he boasts about his plans to acquire the Commodore Hotel and transform it into “the finest building in the world.” This scene sets the tone for what promises to be an exploration of ambition, power, and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their goals.
The film’s premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 20th was nothing short of eventful. “The Apprentice” quickly became a headline-grabber, not just for its content but also for its reception. Fresh from turn-away crowds and standing ovations at both Cannes and the Telluride Film Festival, the film’s acclaim is matched only by its controversy. One particularly shocking scene has sparked significant debate; it graphically depicts an assault involving Trump and his then-wife Ivana, played by Maria Bakalova. This portrayal of their tumultuous relationship adds another layer to the film’s exploration of Trump’s formative years.
Despite—or perhaps because of—its contentious scenes, “The Apprentice” faced significant hurdles in finding a distributor. The controversial nature of the film made several distributors wary, but it eventually landed at Briarcliff Entertainment. This decision marked a significant milestone in bringing the story to the screen, underscoring the inherent risks and rewards in tackling such a provocative subject matter.
The Trump campaign has been quick to react, condemning the film as “pure fiction” and threatening legal action. This response is indicative of the larger cultural and political debates that “The Apprentice” is poised to ignite. Written by Gabe Sherman, the film is described as “a dive into the underbelly of the American empire.” It focuses on Trump’s rise in the 1970s, detailing his close ties with Roy Cohn—a lawyer known for his ruthless tactics and involvement in several high-profile legal cases.
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Adding further depth to the narrative is Martin Donovan’s portrayal of Fred Trump Sr., Donald Trump’s father. Donovan’s presence in the film contributes to a more comprehensive exploration of the family dynamics and influences that shaped one of America’s most polarizing figures. These relationships are central to understanding the young Trump’s motivations and subsequent actions, providing a nuanced perspective on his early ambitions.
One of the most compelling aspects of “The Apprentice” is its timing. The film arrives in theaters at a moment when the legacy and impact of Donald Trump are still hotly debated topics in American discourse. Given its timing, the film is likely to prompt renewed discussion not just about Trump himself, but about the broader themes of power, influence, and the American Dream. By focusing on Trump’s early years and his interactions with Roy Cohn, the film invites viewers to consider the ways in which mentorship, ambition, and morality intersect and clash.
The casting choices have also generated significant discussion. Sebastian Stan, known for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, brings a fresh take on the young Trump—a portrayal that blends charisma with a ruthless drive for success. Jeremy Strong, celebrated for his role in the television series “Succession,” offers a chilling portrayal of Roy Cohn, capturing both his legal brilliance and moral ambiguity.
Maria Bakalova’s role as Ivana Trump adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. Bakalova, who gained fame for her performance in “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm,” is expected to bring depth and nuance to her depiction of Ivana, capturing both the glamour and the darker aspects of their relationship.
As “The Apprentice” gears up for its October release, it stands poised to be more than just a biographical film. It is set to become a cultural artifact that prompts viewers to reflect on the intersections of personal ambition, mentorship, and moral choices. Whether one agrees with its portrayal or not, the film is sure to be a significant talking point in the months to come. Thus, “The Apprentice” is not just a film but a provocative piece of commentary on the American societal landscape, challenging audiences to grapple with the complexities of its subjects.
