"The Apprentice" doesn't hold back. It doesn't try to be objective or find nuance where there is none; instead, it dives headfirst into the rise of a young Donald Trump, portraying him as a man shaped by manipulation, lack of scruples, and relentless ambition. This isn't a traditional biopic-it's a reconstruction of how his mindset was forged, leading him to become a figure who would later leave a profound mark on American politics.
Sebastian Stan takes on the challenge of portraying Trump without resorting to caricature or exaggerated imitation. His performance is unsettling because he captures not just the speech patterns and mannerisms, but also the calculated opportunism that defines him. Alongside him, Jeremy Strong plays Roy Cohn, Trump's mentor and a pivotal figure in his development. Strong's presence is magnetic, making it clear that Cohn's influence was instrumental in shaping Trump's worldview.
Ali Abbasi directs with a firm hand, avoiding unnecessary embellishments. The film works as a stark examination of corruption, power, and the dangerous alliances that can transform an individual into a media monster. It's a raw depiction that makes it clear that impunity and cynicism are essential tools in the world it portrays.
If The Apprentice has a flaw, it's that it doesn't always delve deeply into the psychology of its central character. It presents the events but sometimes lacks a more detailed analysis of his inner motivations. However, the emotional impact is undeniable.
In the end, the film accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do: it unsettles. There is no redemption, no unexpected twists-just a stark exposure of a transformation where anything goes in the pursuit of power. If you already despised Trump before watching, by the end, that feeling will have only intensified.
