Ali Abbasi's 'The Apprentice' Faces Trump Backlash

Ali Abbasi's film 'The Apprentice', which explores Donald Trump's rise as a real estate mogul, has sparked controversy following its premiere at Cannes. The film portrays Trump, played by Sebastian Stan, in a provocative light, depicting scenes that include allegations of past misconduct. After the film's release, Abbasi received a cease-and-desist letter from Trump's lawyers, which complicated distribution deals until it was eventually picked up by Briarcliff Entertainment. Abbasi emphasized the film's 'radically humanist angle,' intending to provide a nuanced look at Trump's early years and his relationship with mentor Roy Cohn. The film is set to be released in theaters on October 11, and its reception could be influenced by the upcoming presidential election. Trump's past allegations, including those from his first wife Ivana, continue to loom over discussions about the film.