Sebastian Stan is stepping into one of the most polarizing roles of his career: portraying Donald Trump in the upcoming film *The Apprentice*. Set to premiere in U.S. theaters on October 11, the film comes at a critical time, tantalizingly close to Election Day and aimed at viewers grappling with their political choices. This film, directed by Ali Abbasi, promises to delve deep into the notorious rise of the former president, exploring the controversial partnerships and deals that defined his early career.
During a recent appearance on the *Today Show*, Stan shared insights into the preparation that went into his portrayal of Trump. He humorously remarked that his experience felt akin to being part of a Marvel film, despite the difference in thematic content. His preparation regimen involved extensive research, utilizing timeless documentaries and existing footage to capture the nuances of Trump’s personality. Stan described the process as training for an instrument; the more one practices, the more intuitive the performance becomes. This analogy underscores the artistry behind embodying a figure as notorious as Trump—an indication that Stan recognizes the need for depth, nuance, and self-awareness in such a daunting role.
*The Apprentice*, penned by Gabe Sherman, encapsulates the vitality of Trump’s early years, particularly focusing on his controversial alliance with Roy Cohn, played by Jeremy Strong. Cohn’s role as Trump’s political fixer and legal advisor during this tumultuous period contributed significantly to the narrative of Trump’s ascension to power. The film also features notable contributions from actors like Martin Donovan and Maria Bakalova, who portray Trump’s father, Fred Trump Sr., and his first wife, Ivana Trump, respectively. The choice to explore these relationships speaks to the film’s intent to provide a more rounded understanding of how Trump’s personal and professional life intermingled.
The film’s journey has not been without resistance. After its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival—which received an extended applause of 11 minutes—Trump’s camp attempted to halt its U.S. release through a cease-and-desist letter. However, this effort did not succeed, and the film continued to debut at other prestigious venues, including the Telluride Film Festival. The timing of the film’s release aligns perfectly with the political climate, capitalizing on the heightened public interest in Trump as the nation prepares for a pivotal election.
While Stan’s immersion into a role with such intensity could be daunting, it is essential for actors to find balance and maintain their own identity outside the character. Starring alongside Jeremy Strong, a recognized method actor known for his dedicated approach, could further heighten the stakes for Stan’s performance. As both actors navigate the psychological landscape of their roles, the film as a whole hopes to provoke thought and discussion in audiences, ensuring that their cinematic portrayal of such a contentious figure will leave an enduring impact. This fascinating project ultimately serves not just as a biographical retelling, but also as a lens through which viewers can reflect on the complexities and contradictions of the figures who have shaped contemporary politics.
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