Sebastian Stan Shines as Donald Trump in ‘The Apprentice’: A Cinematic Exploration of Power and Controversy
Sebastian Stan, widely recognized for his role as the Winter Soldier in Marvel’s Captain America franchise, is set to take on a dramatically different character in the upcoming film ‘The Apprentice.’ This biopic, directed by Ali Abbasi and written by Gabriel Sherman, chronicles the rise of Donald Trump during the 1970s, focusing on his early ventures in New York City’s cutthroat real estate market. The film has already generated significant buzz, partly due to its controversial subject matter and partly because of Stan’s transformative portrayal of Trump. The movie’s promotional materials, including character posters featuring Stan as Trump, Jeremy Strong as Roy Cohn, and Maria Bakalova as Ivana Trump, have further heightened anticipation.
‘The Apprentice’ delves into the formative years of Donald Trump, offering a nuanced portrayal of his ambition and the influences that shaped his path to becoming a real estate mogul and, eventually, the President of the United States. The film made its debut at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received positive reviews for its compelling narrative and strong performances. However, finding a distributor proved challenging due to the film’s contentious nature. It was only after much negotiation that Briarcliff Entertainment secured the rights for its theatrical release.
Director Ali Abbasi has emphasized that ‘The Apprentice’ is not merely a character study of Donald Trump but also an exploration of the American legal and political systems. The film scrutinizes the role of figures like Roy Cohn, a ruthless attorney who mentored Trump and imparted his infamous rules for success: ‘attack, attack, attack,’ ‘admit nothing, deny everything,’ and ‘do anything to win.’ These lessons are depicted as pivotal in shaping Trump’s approach to business and politics, contributing to his rise in the competitive world of New York real estate.
The character posters released by Briarcliff Entertainment and Rich Spirit are striking in their simplicity, featuring the actors in character against a black background with the film’s title emblazoned over their eyes. These images have sparked discussions online, with fans praising Stan’s uncanny resemblance to a young Trump. The posters serve as a visual introduction to the film’s key players, setting the stage for a story that promises to be both enlightening and provocative.
One of the most talked-about aspects of ‘The Apprentice’ is its depiction of Trump’s relationship with Roy Cohn. Jeremy Strong’s portrayal of Cohn has been lauded for its intensity and depth, capturing the lawyer’s manipulative and domineering personality. Cohn’s influence on Trump is portrayed as both profound and pernicious, teaching him to navigate the murky waters of real estate and politics with a blend of aggression and denial. This mentor-mentee dynamic is central to the film, highlighting how Cohn’s teachings helped mold Trump into the figure he is today.
Despite the film’s critical acclaim at Cannes, its journey to distribution was fraught with obstacles. Many companies were hesitant to pick up the film, fearing backlash from Trump’s supporters or potential legal challenges. Indeed, Trump’s team has been vocal in their opposition to the film, labeling it as ‘pure fiction’ and threatening lawsuits. These controversies have only added to the film’s allure, positioning it as a must-see for those interested in the intersection of entertainment and politics.
‘The Apprentice’ is set to release on October 11, strategically timed just before the US presidential election. This timing underscores the film’s relevance and potential impact, as it offers a glimpse into the early life and career of one of the most polarizing figures in modern American history. The movie aims to provide audiences with a deeper understanding of Trump’s motivations and the environment that facilitated his ascent to power.
The film does not shy away from depicting the more unsavory aspects of Trump’s character and actions. Scenes of ruthlessness and alleged sexual misconduct, particularly towards his ex-wife Ivana Trump, have sparked outrage among his supporters and led to threats of legal action. However, director Ali Abbasi remains unfazed, asserting that the film’s portrayal is grounded in documented events and testimonies. This commitment to authenticity, despite the potential for controversy, is a testament to the filmmakers’ dedication to telling a comprehensive story.
Stan’s performance as Trump has been a focal point of early reviews, with critics praising his ability to capture the complexity of the character. His transformation into Trump, both physically and psychologically, is said to be one of the film’s standout elements. This role marks a significant departure from Stan’s previous work, showcasing his versatility as an actor and his willingness to tackle challenging and potentially divisive characters.
In addition to Stan and Strong, Maria Bakalova’s portrayal of Ivana Trump adds another layer of intrigue to the film. Bakalova, known for her breakout role in ‘Borat Subsequent Moviefilm,’ brings a nuanced performance that highlights Ivana’s own ambitions and struggles within her tumultuous marriage to Trump. The dynamic between these three characters forms the emotional core of the film, providing insight into the personal and professional relationships that influenced Trump’s trajectory.
The trailer for ‘The Apprentice’ offers a tantalizing glimpse into the film’s narrative and tone. It features scenes of Trump receiving Cohn’s ruthless advice, attending glamorous events, and navigating the complexities of the real estate industry. The trailer ends with a provocative exchange between Trump and Cohn, encapsulating the film’s themes of ambition, power, and moral ambiguity. This preview has only heightened anticipation, with audiences eager to see how the film will portray these larger-than-life figures.
As ‘The Apprentice’ prepares for its theatrical release, it stands as a significant cultural artifact, reflecting ongoing debates about power, ethics, and leadership in America. The film’s exploration of Trump’s early years provides a context for understanding his later actions and decisions, offering viewers a chance to reflect on the broader implications of his rise to prominence. Whether viewed as a cautionary tale or a historical drama, ‘The Apprentice’ promises to be a thought-provoking addition to the cinematic landscape.