The Apprentice: A Controversial Biopic of Donald Trump's Early Years

“The Apprentice” is a new film directed by Ali Abbasi that dramatizes Donald Trump’s formative years in the real estate industry under the mentorship of Roy Cohn. Set against the backdrop of the upcoming presidential election, the film has sparked significant controversy, particularly due to its portrayal of Trump and the inclusion of sensitive subject matter, including allegations of sexual assault.

The film, which features Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Cohn, aims to provide a nuanced character study rather than a political hit piece. Abbasi describes the movie as taking a “radically humanist angle,” exploring Trump’s relationships and the gritty environment of New York City in the 1970s and 1980s. However, it has faced backlash from Trump’s campaign, which labeled it as “malicious defamation,” and encountered distribution challenges as many Hollywood studios opted out of involvement. The film includes dramatizations of real events, such as Trump’s alleged assault of Ivana Trump, which has drawn particular ire and legal threats from Trump’s team. Despite these controversies, the film’s creators believe it offers valuable insights into Trump’s character and the political landscape of America.

Controversial Themes and Reception

The film’s depiction of sensitive themes, including allegations of sexual assault and Cohn’s complex character, has elicited strong reactions. Critics have highlighted the challenge of portraying such a polarizing figure in a manner that avoids caricature while still addressing the darker aspects of his rise to power. The inclusion of graphic scenes based on real-life allegations against Trump has raised ethical questions about representation in film.

Distribution Challenges

“The Apprentice” faced significant hurdles in securing a distributor, with many major studios declining to participate due to the film’s contentious nature. Director Abbasi noted that the project was considered “too sympathetic” to Trump by some in Hollywood, leading to a complex distribution journey. Ultimately, Briarcliff Entertainment stepped in to release the film, highlighting a growing trend of risk aversion in the industry regarding politically charged content.

Broader Implications

The film not only serves as a biopic of Trump but also comments on the broader dynamics of power and media in American politics. Abbasi and screenwriter Gabriel Sherman emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying structures that facilitate political polarization, suggesting that Trump’s rise is not an isolated phenomenon but part of a larger narrative within American society. As the film is released just weeks before the election, its impact on public perception and discourse remains to be seen.