Donald Trump took to his Truth Social platform to express his disdain for “The Apprentice,” a film directed by Ali Abbasi that chronicles Trump’s rise in the New York City real estate market under the mentorship of Roy Cohn. The film, which stars Sebastian Stan as Trump, Jeremy Strong as Cohn, and Maria Bakalova as Trump’s first wife, Ivana, was released in theaters on October 11 by Briarcliff Entertainment.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump called the film a “FAKE and CLASSLESS Movie” and questioned the legitimacy of its title, asking if the filmmakers had obtained proper approval to use it. He described the film as a “cheap, defamatory, and politically disgusting hatchet job,” suggesting that its release is timed to undermine his campaign ahead of the 2024 presidential election. “This is an attempt to hurt the Greatest Political Movement in the History of our Country, ‘MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!’” he declared.
Trump’s remarks also targeted the film’s writer, Gabe Sherman, whom he labeled a “lowlife and talentless hack.” He defended his late ex-wife Ivana, describing her as a “kind and wonderful person,” and criticized Sherman for allegedly ignoring their positive relationship. “So sad that HUMAN SCUM, like the people involved in this hopefully unsuccessful enterprise, are allowed to say and do whatever they want in order to hurt a Political Movement, which is far bigger than any of us,” Trump wrote, concluding with a rallying cry for his supporters: “MAGA2024!”
In response to Trump’s comments, Abbasi took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, to extend an invitation for further discussion. “Thanks for getting back to us, Donald Trump. I am available to talk further if you want. Today is a tight day with a lot of press for ‘The Apprentice,’ but I might be able to give you a call tomorrow,” Abbasi wrote.
The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May, where it received considerable attention. Prior to the screening, Trump’s campaign released a lengthy statement denouncing the film as “garbage” and “pure fiction.” The campaign indicated that it might pursue legal action against the filmmakers. “We will be filing a lawsuit to address the blatantly false assertions from these pretend filmmakers,” stated Steven Cheung, the Trump campaign’s chief spokesperson. He accused Hollywood elites of engaging in “election interference” and claimed that the film sensationalizes lies that have already been debunked.
At a press conference following the film’s Cannes screening, Abbasi expressed his willingness to meet with Trump and even offered to screen the film for him. “I don’t necessarily think that this is a movie he would dislike. I don’t necessarily think he would like it. I think he would be surprised,” Abbasi remarked. He reiterated his openness to a conversation about the film and its context, suggesting that such an engagement could be beneficial for both parties.
“The Apprentice” has sparked significant debate and controversy, particularly in the current political climate. Its exploration of Trump’s early career and his relationship with Cohn, a controversial figure known for his legal tactics and connections to political power, is expected to resonate with audiences and provoke discussions about the interplay between media, politics, and personal narratives.
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As the film continues to be screened in theaters, it remains to be seen how audiences will react to the portrayal of Trump and the events that shaped his ascent in the real estate world. Given the heightened sensitivities surrounding Trump’s political career and the ongoing presidential race, “The Apprentice” is likely to be a focal point of conversation, both in the media and among the public.
