Uncovering the Dark Side of Trump in “The Apprentice”
The Apprentice, a controversial Trump biopic that recently premiered at Fantastic Fest, delves into the origins of a monster. Directed by Ali Abbasi and written by Gabriel Sherman, the film explores the rise of Donald Trump from a regional menace to a global malevolence. Unlike other biopics that aim to lecture the audience, The Apprentice seeks to inform and provoke reflection on the details we already know about Trump’s ascent to power.
At the heart of the film is the toxic relationship between Trump and his lawyer, Roy Cohn, portrayed brilliantly by Jeremy Strong. Cohn, known for his fixer tactics and ruthless power brokering, played a crucial role in shaping Trump’s trajectory toward notoriety. The dynamic between the two characters reveals a dark underbelly of manipulation, corruption, and malevolence that ultimately led to the cultural and geopolitical chaos we witness today.
Jeremy Strong’s portrayal of Cohn exudes a Machiavellian malevolence that is both chilling and captivating. His performance captures the predatory charm that draws Trump in, showcasing the gradual descent into darkness that defines their partnership. As Cohn navigates the murky waters of Trump’s rise to power, Sebastian Stan delivers a nuanced performance that traces the transformation of Trump from an obnoxious rich man to the monstrous figure he is known as today.
Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of Trump avoids caricature and instead focuses on the development of a tarnished soul consumed by ambition and greed. Through subtle details and character nuances, Stan brings to life the complexities of a man shaped by his environment and circumstances. The film skillfully weaves together the passage of time and Trump’s impact on society, highlighting the gradual erosion of his humanity in the pursuit of power.
While The Apprentice humanizes Trump in some ways, it does not seek to excuse or justify his actions. Instead, it provides a chilling portrayal of his ascent to power, revealing the dark underpinnings of his character and the destructive forces that propelled him forward. The film challenges the notion that Trump is an aberration within the Republican Party, suggesting that he is a product of a lineage of sins that stretches back through history.
As The Apprentice prepares to open theatrically, it offers a sobering reflection on the consequences of unchecked power and ambition. By shedding light on the origins of a monster, the film forces viewers to confront the uncomfortable truths about Trump’s rise to prominence and the societal forces that enabled his ascent. Through powerful performances and a compelling narrative, The Apprentice presents a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked ambition and the seductive allure of evil.
