Sebastian Stan’s Immersive Transformation and the Controversial Biopic ‘The Apprentice’
In the bustling Pearl Diner, Sebastian Stan, a Romanian-born actor renowned for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, reflects on his journey and the metamorphosis of New York City. Stan, who has recently received accolades such as the Hollywood Rising-Star Award at the Deauville American Film Festival and the Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival, is experiencing a career renaissance. His portrayal of a seventies-era Donald Trump in the film ‘The Apprentice’ marks a significant departure from his Marvel persona, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. This role required him to delve deep into Trump’s mannerisms and speech patterns, a process that Stan likens to learning a complex piece of music.
Stan’s early life in communist Romania was marked by limited access to television, yet he exhibited an innate talent for mimicry from a young age. This ability would later become a cornerstone of his acting career. His first acting credit came from a Michael Haneke film, but the arduous audition process nearly led him to abandon his dreams of show business. However, the move to America in 1989 opened new doors, allowing Stan to immerse himself in American pop culture and eventually pursue acting more seriously. The financial security provided by his long-standing role in the Marvel franchise has enabled him to take on more challenging and diverse roles, including his breakthrough performance as Tonya Harding’s husband in ‘I, Tonya.’
Stan’s dedication to portraying real-life characters is evident in his roles in ‘Pam & Tommy’ and now ‘The Apprentice.’ He finds the challenge of mastering an impression both daunting and exhilarating, as it requires a meticulous study of the subject’s nuances. This dedication has paid off, earning him critical acclaim and a deeper appreciation for the craft of acting. Reflecting on his early days in New York City, Stan recalls how he would often imitate family members and neighbors, a practice that honed his skills and prepared him for the demanding roles he would later undertake.
The film ‘The Apprentice’ explores the psyche of Donald Trump, focusing on his rise to prominence in the real estate world under the tutelage of the notorious lawyer and fixer Roy Cohn. Cohn, portrayed by Jeremy Strong, instills in Trump three golden rules: always go on the attack, admit nothing and deny everything, and claim victory at all costs. These lessons shape Trump into a figure of unrepentant narcissism, a transformation that Stan captures with remarkable fidelity. Strong’s performance as Cohn is equally compelling, portraying the character’s soulless hunger for power and his role as a sociopathic superego to Trump’s petulant id.
Despite the strong central performances, the film has faced criticism for its narrative depth and growth. The relationship between Trump and Cohn is depicted as a toxic mentorship, with Cohn berating Trump into shedding his nervousness and embracing boorish behavior. This dynamic creates tension and conflict, but some critics argue that the film struggles to balance empathy for its protagonists with a clear-eyed assessment of their harmful actions. Nevertheless, the film offers glimpses into Trump’s defensive nature and ego, hinting at the traits that would define his later years.
The release of ‘The Apprentice’ has been fraught with controversy. Legal threats from Trump’s team and difficulties in finding a distributor initially hindered its release. Producer Dan Snyder faced backlash from Trump for depicting him in a negative light, leading to speculation that the film was being suppressed for political reasons. However, the film was eventually acquired by James Shani and will be distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment. Despite attempts by Trump’s team to block its release, the film is set to premiere just weeks before the U.S. election, potentially influencing public opinion.
One of the most contentious aspects of the film is its portrayal of Trump’s relationship with Ivana Trump. The film includes scenes referencing Ivana’s 1990 divorce deposition, in which she accused Donald of rape—a statement she later retracted during his 2016 presidential campaign. This depiction has drawn significant attention and criticism, adding to the film’s already controversial nature. Additionally, the film explores the broader context of corruption and power dynamics in American society, highlighting figures like Roger Stone, Andy Warhol, and Rupert Murdoch.
Critics have praised the lead performances in ‘The Apprentice,’ particularly Stan’s nuanced portrayal of a young Trump still finding his voice. However, some argue that the film does not reveal anything new about Trump, instead reiterating well-known aspects of his personality and career. The film’s timing, set against the backdrop of ongoing controversies and investigations involving New York City’s government and the NYPD, adds another layer of complexity to its reception and potential impact.
As the U.S. election approaches, the release of ‘The Apprentice’ could have significant implications. Some believe the film might sway voters’ opinions, given its critical portrayal of Trump and the exploration of his early influences and rise to power. Trump’s public complaints about the film and his calls for a government shutdown over his noncitizen voting bill have only heightened the film’s profile. Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s refusal to comply with Trump’s demands further underscores the political tensions surrounding the film’s release.
The film also delves into Trump’s controversial policies, including his support for immigration restrictions and other divisive issues. Scenes depicting these policies provide a stark contrast to the more personal aspects of Trump’s story, offering a comprehensive view of his impact on American society. Additionally, the film touches on the corruption and shady dealings of the American media, particularly in relation to Israel and Palestine, further broadening its scope and relevance.
Speculation about the potential value of limited-edition Trump commemorative coins and Melania Trump’s ‘Vote Freedom’ necklace adds an element of intrigue to the film’s narrative. These details, while seemingly minor, reflect the broader themes of power, influence, and the commodification of political figures. Trump’s misrepresentation of the price of eggs—complaining they cost $4 when signs clearly state they cost $2.99—serves as a metaphor for his broader approach to truth and reality, reinforcing the film’s critical perspective.
Overall, ‘The Apprentice’ offers a multifaceted exploration of Donald Trump’s origin story, examining the corruption and power dynamics that facilitated his rise to the presidency. Through the lens of his relationship with Roy Cohn and other influential figures, the film provides insight into the forces that shaped Trump’s character and career. As Sebastian Stan continues to push the boundaries of his craft, his performance in ‘The Apprentice’ stands as a testament to his versatility and dedication as an actor, while the film itself sparks important conversations about power, influence, and the American political landscape.