# The Apprentice: An Insight into Donald Trump’s Backstory
The initial trailer for *The Apprentice*, a much-awaited biopic centered on former President Donald Trump, has debuted, providing a compelling look into the formative years of one of the most divisive personalities in contemporary American history. Directed by Ali Abbasi and featuring Sebastian Stan as Trump, the film aims to delve into the pivotal moments and key individuals that influenced Trump’s life and career, especially his bond with the infamous lawyer Roy Cohn.
## A Tale of Influence and Authority
*The Apprentice* transcends being merely a biopic about Trump’s ascent to prominence; it also offers an in-depth examination of the influences that crafted the persona we recognize today. The narrative spotlights Trump’s early years during the 1980s, a period when he was establishing himself in the competitive landscape of New York real estate. Central to his evolution is his connection with Roy Cohn, portrayed by *Succession* actor Jeremy Strong.
Cohn, known for his controversial tenure as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy amid the Red Scare, mentored Trump, imparting the aggressive tactics that later characterized his business and political maneuvers. In the trailer, Cohn is depicted as a skilled manipulator, offering advice that would lay the groundwork for Trump’s methods in both media and politics. “The first rule is: Attack, attack, attack,” Cohn instructs Trump, a phrase that became synonymous with Trump’s public image.
## The Dynamic between Trump and Cohn
The association between Trump and Cohn lies at the core of *The Apprentice*. Cohn, who represented mob leaders and wielded considerable clout within New York’s legal and political frameworks, took Trump under his guidance, teaching him the art of media navigation, public perception manipulation, and ensuring victory, regardless of the situation. The film presents Cohn as a shadowy, Iago-like character, steering Trump through the treacherous waters of New York’s power dynamics.
The trailer alludes to the crucial role Cohn held in shaping Trump’s perspective. “Admit nothing. Deny everything,” Cohn advises, a tenet Trump would follow throughout his life, from real estate projects to his presidency. The film suggests that without Cohn’s mentorship, Trump might have faded into obscurity as a mere real estate mogul, overshadowed by his father, Fred Trump.
## An Insight into Trump’s Mindset
*The Apprentice* serves not only as a historical narrative of Trump’s early years but also as an exploration of his mindset. Penned by *Vanity Fair* journalist Gabriel Sherman, the film presents Trump as an extraordinary figure, propelled by an unquenchable thirst for power and recognition. The trailer highlights Trump’s flair for exaggeration, with Stan’s portrayal of Trump asserting, “It’s gonna be the finest building in the city, the country… the world!” This grandiose style, which would later characterize Trump’s political discourse, is shown to be a critical part of his strategy to dominate media and public conversation.
The film also examines Trump’s employment of superlatives and extravagant assertions to engage the press and public. In one scene, Trump stands before an easel, elaborating on his latest property venture: “There’s never been anything like it of this magnitude, this quality.” This moment captures Trump’s knack for marketing his vision, irrespective of its exaggeration, a talent that would benefit him in both business and politics.
## A Controversial Individual, A Controversial Filmmaking
*The Apprentice* debuts at a moment when Trump remains a highly contentious figure in American politics. The timing of the film’s release, mere hours before the initial 2024 presidential debate featuring Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, is poised to ignite discussions and disputes. The film does not present an uncritical view of Trump; rather, it serves as a dissection of his ascent to power, showcasing him as a person fueled by ego, ambition, and an eagerness to do whatever is necessary to succeed.
The trailer has already stirred considerable interest, with *The Apprentice* receiving accolades at both the Cannes and Telluride film festivals. The film is scheduled to premiere in theaters on October 11, and is anticipated to be essential viewing for those keen on the life and impact of Donald Trump.
## Conclusion
*The Apprentice* provides an intriguing look into Donald Trump’s early years, concentrating on the vital relationships and events that influenced his rise to power. With remarkable performances from Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Roy Cohn, the film promises to be a captivating study of ambition, authority, and the shadowy arts of media influence. Whether admired or reviled, *The Apprentice* is set to offer fresh perspectives on one of the most contentious figures of our era.
