A Movie About Trump Was Made, But No One Would Release It

In an unusual twist for Hollywood, actor Sebastian Stan has taken on the challenging role of Donald Trump in the upcoming film “The Apprentice.” Directed by Iranian Danish filmmaker Ali Abbasi, the project has already sparked considerable debate and controversy as it prepares for release this fall.

Stan’s enthusiasm for the role is evident, as he was determined to portray Trump, defying the typical reservations many actors hold about taking on polarizing figures. He recalls thinking, “If this isn’t going to happen, it’s not going to happen because of me. It’s not going to not happen because I’m scared.”

“The Apprentice” chronicles a young Trump’s early career in 1980s New York, where he attempts to establish himself in real estate, under the mentorship of Roy Cohn, played by Jeremy Strong. The film has faced a tumultuous journey to theaters, marked by several roadblocks including the absence of offers from major studios after its Cannes debut and a cease and desist letter from Trump’s legal team, causing investors to step back.

Despite these challenges, Briarcliff Entertainment announced it will release the film on October 11, just weeks ahead of the presidential election. The filmmakers have also engaged in a Kickstarter campaign to help expand the film’s reach to additional theaters.

The release of “The Apprentice” has drawn fierce criticism from Trump’s campaign, which claims the film is “pure fiction” and an attempt at “election interference by Hollywood elites.” With the election approaching, the film’s impact remains uncertain: Will it resonate with audiences, and how will it affect perceptions as election day nears?

Director Ali Abbasi has emphasized that his intention with the film is not to dictate how people should vote. Rather, he aims to provide insight into the characters involved, particularly Trump and Cohn. “What you do with that knowledge is up to you,” he explains, highlighting the importance of understanding nuanced character portrayals instead of simply reacting to a narrative.

Abbasi has voiced a belief that there has been insufficient exploration into the complexities of contemporary political figures like Trump. He commented on the mythologizing of Trump and his family, suggesting that the only way to challenge this narrative is through a humanistic approach. Instead of viewing characters merely as antagonists or heroes, Abbasi urges viewers to consider the ambivalence of their aspirations and actions.

Critics have offered mixed reviews of the film following its Cannes screening, although the performances of Stan and Strong have been widely praised. One of the most contentious scenes involves a reference to a past accusation from Ivana Trump, adding to the film’s controversial nature and ensuring discussions surrounding the film will continue beyond its release.

While some doubt whether the film presents too sympathetic a view of Trump and Cohn, Stan points out that no one is entirely free from moral compromise. He believes that empathy is crucial to understanding complex social and political issues and hopes “The Apprentice” can foster that understanding.

Stan, known for his role as Bucky Barnes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, finds valuable contrast in Abbasi’s European perspective. He views the film as an exploration of the “win at all costs” mentality, common in the aggressive landscape of American politics and business.

Jeremy Strong, known for his intense character immersion, found himself slipping into the character of Roy Cohn even on set, while Stan underscored his own commitment to realism, humorously recalling an intense scene involving cheeseballs that left him in digestive distress the following morning.

Abbasi has expressed disbelief at the obstacles faced by “The Apprentice,” noting that he believed he had crafted an engaging and bold narrative. He lamented the apparent contradiction between America’s artistic freedom and the business pressures faced in the film industry today.

Echoing this sentiment, Strong considers the near-silencing of the film as indicative of worrying trends within the industry, recognizing “The Apprentice” as primarily a film rather than a political statement. However, all three creators urge the audience to approach the film with an open mind and to engage thoughtfully with the material presented.

In a landscape filled with polarized views, Stan invites potential viewers to “look at public figures that are consequential in our times” and reflect on their actions and the broader implications.

Source: AP