The screenwriter of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ has lifted the lid on the sequel, revealing a villain inspired by tech billionaires like Jeff Bezos and a Miranda Priestly grappling with a changed media landscape. Aline Brosh McKenna, who wrote the original 2006 film, returned for the sequel, which opened at the box office this weekend.
In an interview, McKenna explained that the new film reflects the struggles of modern media, including debt, relevance battles, and acquisitions by soulless tech oligarchs. She said the story is not far from what is happening in Hollywood and the wider world, with well-established business models collapsing under the weight of digital disruption.
The sequel introduces a new character, Justin, who represents a nihilistic view that AI will sweep away traditional industries. Miranda’s counterpoint is a desire to preserve beauty and accomplishment, contrasting with owners who buy august institutions only to delete them. McKenna noted that Miranda’s once-secure place in culture is now challenged, with fewer unifying figures in fashion and media.
McKenna also discussed the evolution of Miranda and Andy’s relationship, emphasising that Miranda was never running an empowerment summit. The script was written quickly, with the first draft delivered to actors in January 2025, and the release date moved up, making post-production swift. Director David Frankel called the film a ‘Polaroid movie’.
