Sebastian Stan dives headfirst into the complex task of portraying Donald Trump, a figure that enthrals and polarises. His role in ‘The Apprentice’ goes beyond imitation.
The Challenge of Portraying Trump
When faced with bringing Donald Trump to life on screen, Sebastian Stan was met with an intricate challenge. Playing one of the most polarising figures of the 21st century required immersing oneself not just in Trump’s persona, but the aura around him. This meant grappling with the public’s bifurcated view of him, spanning from a business mogul to a controversial political figure.
Stan’s previous roles did not remotely resemble this type of portrayal. Known for his fictional political intrigue in MCU’s Winter Soldier, stepping into the shoes of a living, breathing figure, especially one like Trump, was a step into uncharted territories. He likened the experience to “riding a psychotic horse through a blazing stable.”
The Artistic Process
Collaborating with director Ali Abbasi, Stan attempted to filter through the mélange of public perceptions and his own to embody a coherent character on screen. “There’s this admiration and animosity that swirls around Trump,” Stan recounts, insisting on the necessity of staying true to how he and Abbasi envisioned the character.
Despite the myriad impersonations and portrayals of Trump, Stan and Abbasi aimed for a fresh perspective. This meant analysing his life not just through previous depictions, but through new lenses, underpinned by Abbasi’s distinct vision, diving deep into the intricate human being shaping the public figure.
The film does not merely replicate Trump’s flamboyant public image but seeks to explore the complexities behind the figure. Stan noted, “The movie normalises him, showing a relatable human underneath all the public luster.”
The Influence of Roy Cohn
The narrative unfolds to reveal how Trump was moulded under the influence of New York attorney Roy Cohn, portrayed in the film by Jeremy Strong.
Cohn, a notorious name in both legal and political circles, played a pivotal role in shaping Trump’s early years. The film delves into this dynamic, shedding light on the less explored facets of Trump’s journey to becoming a real estate tycoon.
Stan portrays a journey of transformation, a vivid depiction of Trump turning stone over time, illustrating the influence and impact Cohn wielded over his protégé. As viewers explore this nuanced relationship, they get glimpses into the gradual shaping of Trump’s complex personality.
Dissecting the Public Persona
The film aims to detach the myth and legend from the tangible person behind the name. Stan and Abbasi attempt to portray Trump not as a deity of public perceptions, but as a multidimensional human being.
The character painted by the media over decades is remarkably challenging to strip back. Stan shares how he deliberately avoided mimicking impersonators, striving instead for authenticity in a portrayal that resonates with diverse audiences.
Their collective effort was to articulate a narrative balancing the salient public image with personal nuances. It uncovers vulnerabilities and attributes often eclipsed by Trump’s larger-than-life persona.
Impact and Anticipation
Awaited eagerly by audiences, the film promises insights beyond the familiar headlines. It challenges viewers to contemplate the human essence often overshadowed by politics and public spectacle.
Stan and Abbasi aim to trigger discussions, encouraging audiences to reflect on the timely aspects of Trump’s influence and the foundational elements in his life that crafted his identity.
Envisioning a rich cinematic experience, “The Apprentice” offers more than a biographical recount; it’s a platform for reflecting on the intersections of public personas with personal complexities.
Final Thoughts
Through a journey into Trump’s formative years, the film aims for a portrayal that is not just illustrative but reflective, encouraging broader contemplation.
Both Stan and Abbasi weave together an intricate narrative that allows audiences to witness the evolution of Trump’s character amidst the backdrop of his life’s significant influences.
Stan’s journey into Trump’s early life reveals intricate narratives, inviting audiences to discern the layers of a figure known worldwide. ‘The Apprentice’ presents a blend of familiar yet enlightening storytelling.
