The Cannes Film Festival is currently underway, and one of the most talked-about premieres is “The Apprentice,” directed by Ali Abbasi. The film offers an origin story for former President Donald Trump, focusing on his relationship with Roy Cohn, who was his mentor and chief counsel. Cohn, known for his involvement in Joseph McCarthy’s Senate investigations, is portrayed as guiding Trump through the ruthless world of New York City politics and business. Sebastian Stan stars as Trump, while Jeremy Strong plays Cohn in this scathing portrayal of the former president in the 1980s.
Inspired by true events, “The Apprentice” shows Trump’s transformation from a naive real estate striver into a powerful businessman and later, politician, under Cohn’s guidance. The film includes controversial scenes, such as one depicting Trump raping his wife Ivana Trump, played by Maria Bakalova. This scene is based on Ivana Trump’s 1990 divorce deposition, where she alleged that Trump had raped her. Trump denied the accusation, and Ivana later clarified that she felt violated but did not mean it literally.
Variety reported on alleged behind-the-scenes drama surrounding the film, with billionaire Dan Snyder pressuring filmmakers to edit the movie due to its portrayal of Trump. Snyder, a former owner of the Washington Commanders and an investor in “The Apprentice,” had previously donated to Trump’s presidential campaign. Despite the controversy, director Ali Abbasi emphasized that the film is not a strict biopic of Donald Trump but focuses on a specific story through his relationship with Roy Cohn.
“The Apprentice” is set in a gritty 80s aesthetic, returning Jeremy Strong to the New York landscape of money and power following the success of HBO’s “Succession.” Strong, currently performing on Broadway, did not attend the Cannes premiere of the film. The movie is playing in competition at the Cannes Film Festival, making it eligible for the prestigious Palme d’Or award. Filmmakers and casts usually hold press conferences the day after a movie’s premiere at Cannes, allowing for further discussion and analysis of the film’s themes and impact.
The potential political implications of “The Apprentice” are significant, particularly given the timing of its release during a U.S. presidential election year. The film’s portrayal of Trump’s early years and his close relationship with Roy Cohn may provide a fresh perspective on the former president’s rise to power. While the film is still for sale in Cannes and does not have a confirmed release date, it is already generating buzz as a potential awards contender for its powerful performances and controversial subject matter.
As the Cannes Film Festival continues, “The Apprentice” is poised to spark further debate and conversation about its portrayal of Donald Trump and his formative years in business and politics. With a talented cast led by Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong, the film offers a gripping and provocative look at the complex dynamics between power, influence, and ambition in the world of New York City’s elite. Stay tuned for more updates on the film’s reception and potential impact as it continues to make waves at one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals.
