The Apprentice: Sebastian Stan’s Villain Origin Story as Donald Trump

Ali Abbasi’s The Apprentice has recently made its way to Indian audiences via streaming. This film, which garnered significant attention last year, is notable for Sebastian Stan's portrayal of Donald Trump and its unique narrative approach.

Before viewing The Apprentice, I was apprehensive about yet another dramatization that might present Donald Trump in a heroic light. However, the film pleasantly surprised me. It doesn't dwell on Trump's life or his political ascent; instead, it critiques how capitalism can lead to moral corruption, effectively serving as a villain origin story for a widely polarizing figure.

Director Ali Abbasi presents a thought-provoking premise: What if Trump was once an ambitious yet morally flexible young man? The film explores how he compromises his values, highlighting his transformation into a real estate mogul in his 30s.

Abbasi skillfully showcases Trump's magnetic charm without romanticizing him. While the film acknowledges his charisma, it reveals a façade that masks an ambitious and ruthless individual. It cleverly avoids delving into Trump's political ideologies, focusing instead on the character's evolution.

The performances of Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong are commendable. Stan embodies the allure and toxicity of the American dream, portraying a character whose charm and ambition ultimately lead to moral decay. Strong, playing Trump's mentor Roy Cohn, illustrates the stark contrast between teacher and pupil, emphasizing the dark path of ambition.

The Apprentice does not claim to present an unbiased view of Trump; instead, it aims to depict a critical narrative that reflects on his rise to prominence. The film is available for streaming on Lionsgate Play.