Star Rating: 4/5
Cast: Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, Maria Bakalova, Emily Mitchell, Martin Donovan, Patch Darragh
Director: Ali Abbasi
Available On: Theaters
Language: English (with subtitles)
Runtime: 123 Minutes
What’s It About?
The Apprentice Movie Review dives into the origins of Donald Trump (Sebastian Stan) and his mentor, Roy Cohn (Jeremy Strong), tracing their relationship and rise to power. The film is both a dark comedy and a psychological horror, unraveling the toxic bond between these two ambitious figures. It explores themes of morality, ambition, and the corrupting nature of power, offering an unsettling look into the personal dynamics that shaped their infamous legacies.
What Works?
- Sebastian Stan’s Transformative Role: Stan brilliantly embodies Trump with bravery and nuance, showcasing his descent into power-driven madness.
- Jeremy Strong’s Masterclass: Strong delivers a layered performance as Roy Cohn, balancing charm with chilling manipulation, making his character unforgettable.
- Dual-Tone Narrative: The blend of dark humor and psychological horror creates a compelling dichotomy, keeping the audience engaged.
- Timely Relevance: Arriving during a pivotal political moment, the film feels urgent and provocative.
What Doesn’t Work?
- Dense Second Act: The pacing slows down mid-film, making certain segments feel overextended.
- Lack of Visual Flair: While the performances shine, the film’s direction and cinematography feel conventional, missing opportunities for creative storytelling.
Star Performances
- Sebastian Stan: Courageous and captivating, Stan’s portrayal of Trump is both unsettling and commendable.
- Jeremy Strong: Strong’s Cohn is haunting, with a performance that cements his reputation as one of the finest actors of his generation.
- Maria Bakalova: Provides strong support, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Fashion in The Apprentice
The fashion in The Apprentice reflects the characters’ power and personalities. Sebastian Stan, as Donald Trump, dons sharp suits and bold ties, embodying ambition and image obsession. Jeremy Strong’s Roy Cohn sports tailored three-piece suits with muted tones, projecting authority and moral ambiguity. The supporting cast balances the aesthetic with understated elegance, while period-specific details like wide lapels and 1980s power dressing ground the narrative in its historical context. Fashion subtly enhances the storytelling, making the characters and their world feel authentic and immersive.
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Final Verdict
The Apprentice” is a gripping biopic powered by its stellar lead performances. While its visuals lack innovation, the compelling story and dynamic chemistry between Stan and Strong make it a must-watch for fans of intense drama and political intrigue.
