The apprentice: A deep dive into the rise of Donald Trump
The first trailer for the highly anticipated biopic The Apprentice has finally been released, offering a glimpse into the life of Donald Trump, portrayed by Sebastian Stan. This film promises to be a riveting exploration of Trump’s ascent to fame and his tutelage under the influential right-wing lawyer and political fixer, Roy Cohn, played by Jeremy Strong.
A journey through the American empire’s underbelly
The Apprentice is directed by Ali Abbasi and penned by Gabe Sherman. The film is described as “a dive into the underbelly of the American empire,” a phrase that sets the tone for a gritty and unflinching look at the forces that shaped one of the most controversial figures in modern history. The cast also includes Maria Bakalova as Ivana Trump and Martin Donovan as Fred Trump Sr.
A historical backdrop
Set in the tumultuous 1970s America, the narrative centers around Trump’s complex relationship with Roy Cohn. Cohn, who gained notoriety as Senator Joseph McCarthy’s chief counsel during the Army-McCarthy hearings, was a pivotal figure in Trump’s early career. His role as a prosecutor in the espionage trial of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, which led to their execution in 1953, further cemented his place in American history.
A star-studded production team
The film boasts an impressive lineup of producers, including Daniel Bekerman for Scythia Films (Canada), Jacob Jarek for Profile Pictures (Denmark), and Ruth Treacy and Julianne Forde for Tailored Films (Ireland). Abbasi and Louis Tisne represent the Film Institute (Denmark). The executive producers list is equally illustrious, featuring names like Amy Baer, Mark H. Rapaport, Emanuel Nunez, Josh Marks, Grant S. Johnson, Phil Hunt, Compton Ross, Thorsten Schumacher, Niamh Fagan, Sherman, Lee Broda, James Shani, Greg Denny, and Andrew Frank.
A director’s vision
Ali Abbasi, known for his recent work on Holy Spider, a crime thriller about a journalist investigating the serial killings of sex workers in the Iranian holy city of Mashhad, brings his unique directorial style to The Apprentice. His ability to delve into dark and complex narratives is expected to add a layer of depth to this biopic.
Premiere and trailer
The Apprentice premiered in May at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and powerful performances. The film is set to hit theaters on October 11. For those eager to get a sneak peek, the trailer is available here.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, the prospect of watching The Apprentice is thrilling. The film not only promises to offer a detailed portrayal of Donald Trump’s early years but also provides a lens through which we can examine the socio-political landscape of 1970s America. The dynamic between Trump and Cohn is particularly intriguing, as it sheds light on the mentor-mentee relationship that significantly influenced Trump’s approach to business and politics.
In-depth analysis
The casting of Sebastian Stan as Donald Trump is a bold choice. Known for his roles in action-packed films, Stan’s portrayal of Trump is expected to be a departure from his usual characters. Jeremy Strong, on the other hand, is no stranger to complex roles, and his depiction of Roy Cohn is likely to be both compelling and chilling.
Maria Bakalova’s role as Ivana Trump adds another layer of interest. Bakalova, who gained international fame for her performance in a recent satirical film, is expected to bring a nuanced portrayal of Ivana, highlighting her influence on Trump’s personal and professional life.
Distinctive comments
The film’s exploration of Trump’s relationship with Cohn is particularly timely, given the current political climate. Cohn’s tactics and strategies have left a lasting impact on American politics, and understanding this relationship provides valuable insights into the origins of Trump’s approach to power and influence.
Conclusion
The Apprentice is more than just a biopic; it’s a deep dive into the forces that shaped a controversial figure and, by extension, modern American politics. With a stellar cast, a visionary director, and a gripping narrative, this film is set to be a must-watch for cinema and history enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the chance to experience this compelling story when it premieres on October 11. Watch the trailer here and prepare for a cinematic journey through the underbelly of the American empire.