Ali Abbasi, the director of the critically acclaimed Border, returns with The Apprentice, a bold and unflinching biographical drama that plunges viewers into the early years of Donald Trump’s rise to power. It’s a film that demands attention, not only for its subject matter, but for its sheer audacity in portraying a man who has become synonymous with American power. Before, Film Review The Apprentice placed by Creativity’s.
Set in New York City, the film follows a young Donald Trump as he meets a powerful lawyer, Roy Cohn, who helps Trump deal with the allegations against his father, Fred Trump. Through Cohn’s mentorship, Trump becomes a successful real estate mogul, undertaking ambitious projects. However, Trump’s ambition takes its toll on his personal life, putting pressure on his marriage to Ivana and leading to a strained relationship with his brother Fred Jr.
Ali Abbasi employs a visually arresting style that masterfully blends gritty realism with elements of glamorous excess. The film’s setting – the bustling streets of 1970s New York – provides a stark contrast to the luxurious interiors that surround Trump, highlighting the jarring dissonance between his ruthless ambition and the world he inhabits. Through a series of gripping flashbacks, Abbasi meticulously crafts a narrative that reveals Trump’s evolving character, showing his growing arrogance, disregard for ethical boundaries and unshakable belief in his own exceptionalism. His masterful direction elevates The Apprentice beyond a mere biopic, painting a compelling portrait of the making of a controversial figure.
Gabriel Sherman, the screenwriter of The Apprentice, brought a unique perspective to the film, drawing on his extensive experience covering Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign as a journalist. Sherman sought to tell Trump’s “origin story” by delving into his early ventures, including his ambitious attempt to revive the dilapidated Commodore Hotel and the construction of Trump Tower. Sherman’s insights into power dynamics and ambition, coupled with his understanding of Trump’s mentorship under Roy Cohn, give the film a compelling narrative that illuminates the forces that shaped the man who would become President of the United States.
Kasper Tuxen, the cinematographer behind The Apprentice, masterfully immerses the viewer in a world that is both seductive and unforgiving. Tuxen’s camerawork illuminates the stark disparities between the wealthy elite and the struggling classes, foreshadowing the economic tensions that Trump would later exploit to his advantage. Through his skilful use of light and shadow, Tuxen creates a visually arresting experience that underscores the film’s central theme of ambition and its consequences.
In The Apprentice, the music composed by Martin Dirkov plays an important role in shaping the emotional landscape of the film. The blend of classic rock and haunting orchestral scores heightens the intensity of the narrative. The energetic rock elements evoke a sense of ambition and drive, reflecting the protagonist’s relentless pursuit of success, while the orchestral compositions add a layer of depth and introspection, underscoring the darker themes of moral ambiguity. This musical interplay not only enriches the storytelling, but also invites viewers to engage more deeply with the characters’ struggles.
The cast of The Apprentice is a veritable constellation of talent, each member bringing a unique dimension to the film’s narrative. Sebastian Stan embodies Donald Trump, capturing his brashness and ambition. Jeremy Strong masterfully portrays the enigmatic Roy Cohn, highlighting his power and influence over the young Trump. Martin Donovan delivers a nuanced performance as Fred Trump, whose influence shaped his son’s early years. And Maria Bakalova brings depth to Ivana Trump, capturing the complexities of her relationship with the ambitious young tycoon. The strong ensemble creates a dynamic and compelling narrative, bringing the characters and the film’s central themes to life.
The Apprentice explores the complex and often disturbing themes of power, manipulation and the compromises made in the pursuit of success. Roy Cohn’s cynical mantra – “Always attack, never admit guilt” – becomes a guiding principle for young Donald Trump, showing how mentorship can shape one’s moral compass, often leading to questionable ethical choices. The film traces the evolution of Trump’s relationship with Cohn, culminating in a moment of disillusionment that forces viewers to reflect on the true cost of ambition and the price one pays for power.
In conclusion, the film offers a nuanced exploration of the dark undercurrents that can fuel the relentless pursuit of power. The Apprentice is both a revealing portrait and a cautionary tale, a reminder that even in the pursuit of seemingly noble goals, the hunger for power can have devastating consequences. At a time when political legacies are hotly debated, The Apprentice stands out as a thought-provoking piece that will undoubtedly spark conversation and reflection long after the final credits roll. Whether one admires or criticises Trump’s trajectory, Abbasi’s film leaves an indelible mark on audiences.
