New Trump Biopic ‘The Apprentice’ Highlights Influence of Roy Cohn

A new biopic titled ‘The Apprentice‘ has shed light on the pivotal relationship between Donald Trump and his mentor, the notorious lawyer Roy Cohn. Directed by Ali Abassi, the film focuses on the period from 1970 to 1980, a critical time in Trump’s life when he was under Cohn’s tutelage.

During this era, Trump, then in his early thirties, was breaking away from his father’s real estate business and was taken under the wing of Cohn. Cohn, known for his ruthless and unscrupulous legal tactics, imparted three key rules to Trump that would shape his future approach to business and politics: Attack, admit nothing, deny everything, and claim victory regardless of the outcome.

The film stars Sebastian Stan as Donald Trump and Jeremy Strong as Roy Cohn, with Maria Bakalova portraying Ivana Trump. It avoids delving into Trump’s psychological or childhood background, instead focusing on his singular obsession with becoming wealthy and successful. The screenplay is based on the work of journalist and screenwriter Gabriel Sherman, who has experience with the far-right milieu through his work on the series ‘The Loudest Voice’ about Fox News founder Roger Ailes.

‘The Apprentice’ paints a dark picture of Trump’s character, highlighting his monomaniacal drive and willingness to use any means to achieve his goals. The film suggests that Cohn’s influence was instrumental in shaping Trump into the figure he is today, often described as unscrupulous and amoral. Despite its release in an election year, the film is praised for its well-researched scenario, good acting, and direction, making it more than just a gimmicky marketing tool.