Netflix adds ‘riveting’ period drama that once sparked uproar | Films | Entertainment

A contentious film charting Donald Trump’s ascent to power has been quietly added to Netflix’s catalogue. The US President has vehemently criticised the film, even attempting to prevent its release.

The Apprentice narrates the tale of the tycoon’s rise to prominence and his ability to outmanoeuvre the system to reach the pinnacle in New York City. This biographical period drama follows the future world leader as he strives to make a name for himself in the Big Apple.

In response to the film’s production, the magnate went to great lengths to ensure the movie never saw the light of day. However, after receiving critical acclaim, film enthusiasts can now experience the project first-hand as it is added to the streaming platform.

Co-funded by Irish investment, the film portrays a determined Trump – portrayed by Sebastian Stan – navigating his way around New York in the 1970s, gradually amassing power and influence. Directed by Ali Abassi, the film was a hit with critics and even received a nod at this year’s Oscars.

During the era depicted in the film, Trump’s father Fred – played by Martin Donovan – is under investigation by the FBI during the peak of the Civil Rights Movement.

A domineering and intimidating figure, Fred is lambasted by the federal government for seemingly discriminating against African-American tenants in the properties he owns, reports the Mirror.

The investigation’s outcome puts the entire Trump empire at risk, whilst a young Donald continues cultivating relationships with the wealthy elite. After visiting several of the city’s exclusive clubs, he encounters Roy Cohn, a notorious lawyer portrayed by Succession star Jeremy Strong.

Cohn agrees to represent the Trumps in their legal troubles, whilst simultaneously instructing Donald on how to manipulate the system to his advantage, transforming him into a ruthless businessman who eventually becomes America’s most powerful figure. However, their initially close relationship deteriorates during the 1980s, especially following Trump’s marriage to his first wife Ivanka.

Trump has been amongst the biopic’s most outspoken detractors, attempting to prevent its release entirely to stop audiences from viewing it.

After backing down, he posted numerous aggressive social media messages encouraging people to avoid the film due to its “slanderous” portrayal of his life.

The film presents a distinctly unflattering depiction of the current president, demonstrating what Joe.ie characterised as “a real fearlessness” from Abbasi, Stan and the film’s screenwriter, Gabriel Sherman. Throughout the production, Trump appears to evolve from a young and naive figure into his confident and controversial persona that rendered him so polarising.

Speaking to journalists following its delayed release, actress Maria Bakalova expressed her satisfaction that viewers would finally discover what all the fuss was about.

“I always enjoy when people give it a shot, because you accept one thing and then you go watch it, and you end up leaving the theatre with a different thought about it,” she explained.

“People watched it, maybe a little bit later than we all wanted it to come out, but it’s never too late,” she added. She also described the project as an “international film” due to the vast range of nationalities and contributors; including Irish, Canadian, American and Danish producers.

The Apprentice is now streaming on Netflix