Strategically released in Italian cinemas in recent days, The Apprentice, in competition at the last Cannes Film Festival, is perhaps the most faithful and best portrayal of Donald Trump for those who want to approach the figure without prejudices. The film tells the story of his rise to power and the building of a myth, a strategic premise for the creation of that ideal and deeply attractive imagery that has been constructed day after day, the Make America great again narrative. The title is taken from the reality show that gave Trump great notoriety, where he judged the entrepreneurial skills of a group of contestants. The film delves into the empire that Trump built with the help of influential lawyer and political fixer Roy Cohn. The cast includes Sebastian Stan as Trump, Jeremy Strong as Roy Cohn, and Maria Bakalova as Ivana, his first wife.
The film also touches on the accusations made against Trump regarding violations of the Fair Housing Act in his real estate properties in 1973. Roy Cohn filed a lawsuit against the government for these accusations, which were eventually settled out of court. Trump’s organization was again taken to court in 1978 for violating the terms of the settlement. All of this sets the stage for Trump’s later political career and the impact he has had on American society and politics. His entrance into the political world was not a sudden occurrence, but rather a gradual process that culminated in his election as the 45th President of the United States in 2016.
Born in New York in 1946, Trump inherited his father’s business acumen and began working in the family business at a young age. He became one of the richest individuals in the world, branching out into various industries such as real estate, wrestling, television, and telecommunications. Trump’s entry into politics drew comparisons to figures like Silvio Berlusconi, as both men used their wealth and influence to navigate the political landscape. Trump’s presidency was marked by polarizing policies and a divisive approach to governance, leading to widespread protests and criticism from various segments of society.
Trump’s foreign policy decisions, particularly his America First approach, strained relations with traditional allies and led to changes in international agreements and partnerships. His interactions with leaders like Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin were both controversial and consequential, shaping global dynamics. Domestically, Trump faced challenges in implementing his agenda, with legal battles, a pandemic response, and economic downturns affecting his popularity and effectiveness as a leader. The 2020 election saw Trump lose to Joe Biden, prompting him to continue to contest the results and plan for future political endeavors.
Following his defeat, Trump faced multiple legal challenges and accusations, including criminal indictments related to his conduct while in office. Despite these challenges, Trump remained defiant and continued to rally his supporters, hoping for a return to power. A failed assassination attempt and ongoing legal battles further added to the tumultuous post-presidency period for Trump. As he navigates the aftermath of his presidency, Trump remains a central figure in American politics, with his legacy and impact continuing to shape the country’s political landscape.
