A controversial biopic about Donald Trump's rise to power has been quietly added to Netflix's catalogue. The film, titled The Apprentice, tells the story of the mogul's ascent in New York City during the 1970s and 1980s. It has been praised by critics but lambasted by the US President, who attempted to block its release.
Directed by Ali Abbasi, the film stars Sebastian Stan as a young Donald Trump, who navigates the city's elite circles while his father Fred Trump—played by Martin Donovan—faces an FBI investigation for alleged discrimination against African-American tenants. The legal fallout threatens the family fortune, prompting Donald to seek help from infamous lawyer Roy Cohn, portrayed by Jeremy Strong.
Cohn teaches Trump how to manipulate the system, transforming him into a ruthless businessman. The film also depicts Trump's marriage to his first wife Ivanka, played by Maria Bakalova, and the eventual deterioration of his relationship with Cohn. Trump has publicly denounced the film as 'slanderous' and urged people not to watch it.
Despite Trump's opposition, The Apprentice received critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination. Bakalova expressed relief that audiences can finally see the film, calling it an 'international' project with contributions from Irish, Canadian, American, and Danish producers. The film is now available for streaming on Netflix.
