Is Hollywood in “Fear” of Releasing “The Apprentice”?
“The Apprentice,” a scathing portrait of a young Donald Trump, dominated the Cannes Film Festival, scoring with critics, sparking an eight-minute standing ovation, and prompting a fiery response from the 45th president’s legal team.
Despite its triumphant debut, nearly two weeks after its “bigly” premiere, the film still doesn’t have a U.S. distributor. This raises a burning question: Is Hollywood in “fear” of releasing “The Apprentice”?
A Cinematic Triumph
“The Apprentice,” directed by the red-hot Ali Abbasi and starring Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong, has captivated audiences and critics alike. The film’s sharp portrayal of Donald Trump’s early years has ignited feverish media attention and glowing reviews. However, despite its critical acclaim and high-profile cast, the movie remains up for grabs in the U.S. market.
The Great Hesitation
Sources close to the dealmaking reveal that while several potential buyers are in the mix, including theatrical distributors and streamers, none of the major studios are bidding. This includes their specialty labels like Disney-owned Searchlight, Sony Pictures Classics, or Focus Features, which is owned by Universal. Even some of the most daring indie distributors like Neon, which previously released Abbasi’s “Border,” aren’t offering a deal yet.
Fear of Retribution?
Privately, the team behind “The Apprentice” believes that their difficulty securing a distribution deal is analogous to censorship. They argue that these companies are operating out of fear, worried that releasing the movie could land them on Trump’s bad side. Given that Trump is currently leading President Biden in the polls, this fear seems well-founded. If Trump returns to the White House, he could leverage his position to block or slow deals, and enlist different regulatory agencies to more closely scrutinize their operations.
A Brave New World for Filmmaking
The reluctance of major studios to pick up “The Apprentice” reflects a broader issue within the entertainment industry. The fear of political retribution is a troubling sign for artistic freedom. It raises important questions about the future of filmmaking and the role of politics in art.
The hesitation to distribute “The Apprentice” underscores the tension between artistic expression and political power. It’s a stark reminder that even in the world of entertainment, the influence of powerful figures can loom large.
Conclusion
As the saga of “The Apprentice” continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether a U.S. distributor will step up to the plate. The film’s journey highlights the challenges and complexities of navigating the intersection of art and politics in today’s world.
