The Film "The Apprrentice" opens in cinemas on Friday, October 18th, but of course we don't have to wait that long for the reviews of critics, such as The Irish Times.
Some criticize studies of controversial figures like Donald Trump for humanizing them. However, portraying them as human should not be viewed negatively. Labeling them as monstrous can distance us, but humanizing doesn't mean viewing them as humane.
Ali Abbasi's exploration of the early controversies surrounding the Republican Party's current nominee for the U.S. presidency reveals Sebastian Stan's pitiful character, struggling under a domineering father and lacking recognition from those around him. Despite encountering a supportive mentor, the mentor's strict and demanding nature adds to his challenges. Jeremy Strong portrayed the notorious lawyer Roy Cohn with finesse and passion, showcasing him as a mentor who supported Joe McCarthy and prosecuted the Rosenbergs, becoming a key figure for businessmen.
The encounter between Cohn and Trump at a posh restaurant resembles a high school drama. Cohn, mingling with the wealthy patrons, approaches Trump seated alone. This scene foreshadows a supervillain origin story, hinting at Cohn's influence on Trump's negative traits. However, the notion that external factors solely shape one's identity is superficial and simplistic.
Abassi, the director of "Border" and "Holy Spider," explores the emergence of an ogre and the transformation of New York from the 1970s to the 1980s. The city's decline is vividly portrayed through Kasper Tuxen's camera, capturing scenes of accumulated trash and weathered buildings, conveying a sense of neglect over time.
Trump's portrayal in the film as flat adds discomfort to his acts of villainy, especially in his treatment of Ivana Trump when she mocks him. Despite Ivana's mention of assault in her divorce deposition, she clarified it wasn't a criminal accusation. This scene contrasts sharply with Trump's usual closed-off demeanor.