Tony Schwartz, the ghostwriter behind Donald Trump’s book “The Art of the Deal,” has commented on the accuracy of the new biopic featuring the former president. In an op-ed for The New York Times, Schwartz stated that the film captured the most important aspect about Trump accurately. He noted that he now sees “The Art of the Deal” as unintentional fiction and highlighted the disparity between how leaders present themselves and how they truly feel inside.
Schwartz emphasised a key lesson from Trump depicted in the film, that a lack of conscience can be advantageous in accumulating power and wealth in a society where most people adhere to social norms. While acknowledging some artistic liberties taken by the filmmakers, Schwartz found the portrayal emotionally authentic and consistent with the Trump he got to know while writing the book.
The biopic delves into Trump’s upbringing, focusing on his family’s generational trauma and its impact on him and the nation. Schwartz revealed that Trump would boast about his successes while hiding his financial troubles during their interactions. The ghostwriter described Trump as insecure and devoid of self-awareness, attributing these traits to his upbringing where unconditional love was lacking.
The film traces Trump’s evolution from idolising his father to adopting attorney Roy Cohn’s ruthless tactics. Cohn’s three main lessons to Trump were to attack relentlessly, deny any wrongdoing, and always claim victory. Despite Trump praising Cohn’s loyalty, Schwartz revealed that Trump abandoned Cohn when he faced personal struggles.
Schwartz concluded that the film’s portrayal of Trump serves as a warning that the former president remains the same person as he was in his childhood. The biopic sheds light on Trump’s perpetual need for attention and his tendency to measure his worth by external factors. It illustrates how Trump’s upbringing and influential figures shaped his character and leadership style.
The ghostwriter’s insights offer a deeper understanding of Trump’s persona and the factors that have moulded him over the years. Schwartz’s reflections on Trump’s journey provide valuable context to viewers and readers seeking to comprehend the complexities of the former president’s psyche.