Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan face the challenges head-on in ‘The Apprentice’, a movie that has sparked much discussion and debate. Most notably, their portrayals of key figures have drawn significant praise. Strong’s performance as the New York power broker Roy Cohn has been described as chillingly riveting, with one critic, Trump adviser Roger Stone, hailing its uncanny accuracy. Meanwhile, Sebastian Stan’s depiction of Trump has been lauded for its authenticity and humanity, a departure from the usual parodies seen on platforms like “Saturday Night Live”.
The film, directed by Ali Abbasi and penned by Gabriel Sherman, delves into the complex mentorship between Cohn and a young Trump during the 1980s, offering a dramatic portrayal set against the backdrop of the current election year. Strong remarks on the legacy of Cohn, stating, “It’s a legacy of mendacity and lies and denialism and the aggressive pursuit of winning as the only moral measure.” The intense relationship between Cohn and Trump forms the heart of the narrative, providing Strong and Stan with what they consider to be two of the most compelling roles in their careers.
Despite initial hesitations from many actors to take on the role of Trump, Stan embraced the challenge and committed to the project over several years. The production faced its own hurdles, struggling for financing and distribution until Briarcliff Entertainment came on board. Sherman began crafting the screenplay in 2017, drawing from his coverage of the 2016 Trump campaign. Through meticulous research and study, Strong found Cohn to be a character of profound contradictions, a figure he describes as a “completely fascinating character”.
As a film exploring the origins of pivotal political figures, ‘The Apprentice’ walks a fine line between condemnation and empathy. The team behind the movie believes that cultivating empathy through storytelling is essential in fostering a deeper understanding of even the most divisive individuals. Strong and Stan acknowledge the risks involved in portraying such contentious characters and the potential backlash from those in power. Nevertheless, they remain steadfast in their belief that the film’s nuanced approach can contribute to a greater comprehension of our current political landscape.
As the movie prepares for its theatrical release amid a charged election season, the cast and crew stand by their work, hoping to spark conversations and reflections on the past that may shape our future. Despite the uncertainties and criticisms, Strong and Stan are poised to receive recognition for their performances, possibly earning their first Academy Award nominations. Their dedication to bringing depth and nuance to their roles in ‘The Apprentice’ underscores the power of cinema in shedding light on complex historical figures and their enduring impacts on society.