The first official trailer for The Apprentice, directed by Iranian-Danish filmmaker Ali Abbasi (Holy Spider, Border), has arrived, and it's already turning heads. Starring Sebastian Stan as a young Donald Trump, the film delves into the infamous businessman's early days in 1970s New York. Audiences are taken through a riveting portrait of Trump's mentorship under Roy Cohn, a notorious political fixer played by Jeremy Strong (Succession). Cohn teaches Trump the ruthless tactics he would later use to build his empire, such as media manipulation and power plays. The story unpacks the origins of one of the most polarizing figures in modern history.
The Apprentice Photos
Sebastian Stan, often praised for his role in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, steps into the shoes of Trump with surprising intensity. From the trailer, Stan's portrayal seems to capture both the arrogance and ambition of a young Trump who's eager to escape his father's shadow. Opposite him, Jeremy Strong delivers an equally gripping performance as Cohn, a man who values winning above all else. This fascinating dynamic between the two characters promises an electrifying narrative.
Ali Abbasi, known for his dark, boundary-pushing storytelling in Border and Holy Spider, brings a fresh perspective to The Apprentice, which premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Though reviews have been mixed—some critics argue the film feels too generic and lacks the hard-hitting drama one might expect—the chemistry between Stan and Strong is undeniably compelling. Abbasi's eye for detail and Gabriel Sherman's screenplay provide a darkly humorous look at the world of high-stakes business and politics.
Set to release in select U.S. theaters on October 11th, 2024, The Apprentice offers a provocative look at the beginning of Trump's rise to power. With a star-studded cast that includes Maria Bakalova as Ivana Trump and Martin Donovan in a key role, this film promises to be one of the year's most talked-about releases. Whether you're a fan of political dramas or intrigued by the man who became America's 45th president, this is a film worth watching.
