The recent release of “The Apprentice” at the Cannes Film Festival has stirred up controversy, particularly with regard to legal threats made by representatives of Donald Trump. The movie, which features the rise of a young 1980s Donald J. Trump, played by Sebastian Stan, has received both acclaim and backlash. Following its world premiere at the fest, Trump’s campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung announced plans to file a lawsuit against the filmmakers, citing “blatantly false assertions” in the film. Despite this, the movie received an 11-minute standing ovation at the Grand Theatre Lumiere, indicating a positive reception from audience members.
Cheung went on to denounce the film as “pure fiction” that sensationalizes debunked lies. He characterized the movie as part of Hollywood elites’ efforts to interfere in the upcoming election. Abbasi, the filmmaker behind “The Apprentice,” expressed a willingness to discuss the movie with Trump himself, emphasizing that the portrayal was not necessarily one that the President would dislike. The film’s producer, Daniel Berkman, extended an invitation for Trump and his team to view the movie to fully understand its content and context.
One of the most controversial scenes in the movie depicts Trump engaging in a non-consensual sexual act with his former wife, Ivana Trump. This scene has sparked debate and criticism, especially as Ivana had previously retracted her claim of assault. Despite these challenges, Abbasi hinted at a possible release date for the movie in September, timed to coincide with the second Presidential Debate. This strategic move could further intensify the discussions surrounding the film and its depiction of Trump’s past.
Abbasi clarified that the movie is not solely about Donald Trump but rather an exploration of the power dynamics within a larger system. He highlighted the influence of Roy Cohn, Trump’s mentor, in shaping the President’s approach to politics and business. The director also touched on the perceived divide between conservatives and liberals in the United States, suggesting that this distinction may be more complex than commonly portrayed. By delving into the intricacies of power and influence, “The Apprentice” aims to provoke thought and discussion on broader societal issues.
The controversy surrounding “The Apprentice” underscores the intersection of art, politics, and media in shaping public discourse. While the film has faced legal threats and criticism, it has also garnered praise for its bold storytelling and examination of historical events. As discussions continue to unfold, it remains to be seen how the movie will impact perceptions of Donald Trump and the broader political landscape.