How to Stream The Apprentice (2024) – Donald Trump's Early Career Drama

The Apprentice (2024) is a biographical drama directed by Ali Abbasi, offering a deep dive into the early career of Donald Trump, with a sharp focus on his controversial relationship with lawyer Roy Cohn. The film, written by Gabriel Sherman, stars Sebastian Stan as Trump, Jeremy Strong as Cohn, and Maria Bakalova as Ivana Trump. Set in the 1970s and 1980s, the film delves into Trump's journey as a New York real estate mogul, exposing the manipulative power dynamics and morally ambiguous strategies that fueled his rise to prominence.

Plot Overview

The film opens in 1973, where a young Trump, frustrated by a federal investigation into his father Fred’s discriminatory housing practices, meets Roy Cohn, a ruthless lawyer known for his unethical tactics. Cohn takes Trump under his wing, teaching him a brutal code: always attack, never admit fault, and claim victory at all costs. Cohn's influence on Trump shapes much of his approach to business and later politics, as he navigates high-stakes real estate deals, including the redevelopment of New York’s Commodore Hotel and the construction of Trump Tower.

As the plot progresses, Trump distances himself from his father’s legacy and carves out his own identity, one marked by extravagant ambition and media manipulation. However, his aggressive pursuit of success comes at a personal cost. His tense relationship with his brother Fred Jr., who succumbs to alcoholism, and the gradual disintegration of his marriage to Ivana (played by Bakalova), highlight the personal sacrifices behind his public persona.

Meanwhile, Cohn, a closeted gay man, battles AIDS but refuses to publicly acknowledge his illness or sexuality, further complicating his relationship with Trump. As Cohn’s health deteriorates, Trump begins to distance himself from his once-powerful mentor, showing the cold pragmatism that drives his decision-making. The film culminates in Cohn’s death, leaving Trump to reflect on his meteoric rise and the legacy of the man who shaped him.

A Deeply Human Portrait

The Apprentice offers a unique, humanistic portrayal of Trump and the people surrounding him. Rather than a simple critique of Trump’s morality, the film attempts to understand the forces that molded his personality. Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of Trump goes beyond mere impersonation, capturing the essence of the man — his insecurities, ambitions, and vulnerabilities. Jeremy Strong’s Roy Cohn is equally compelling, providing a menacing yet fascinating look into one of the most influential figures in Trump’s early career.

The film paints a complex picture of Trump’s psyche, showing how his obsession with winning and power was nurtured by Cohn’s ruthless tutelage. Abbasi’s direction refuses to depict Trump as a caricature, instead offering a nuanced view of his climb to the top, shaped by the cold realities of business, personal loss, and calculated relationships.

Cinematic Style and Production

Shot primarily in Toronto, The Apprentice employs a visual style that captures the glitz and grit of 1970s and 1980s New York. Kasper Tuxen’s cinematography highlights both the luxury of Trump’s world and the darker, more corrupt undercurrents of his dealings. The film’s minimalist score by Martin Dirkov complements the tension that runs through Trump’s relationships, especially with Cohn, whose mentorship steers Trump through various moral and legal quagmires.

The film also draws from historical records, incorporating real events such as Trump’s contentious dealings with New York politicians and his involvement in the Atlantic City casino business, offering a broader commentary on corporate greed and the American dream. Abbasi’s direction ensures that the film is not just a biopic, but a reflection on the cultural and political forces that propelled Trump to fame.

Controversy and Reception

The Apprentice sparked significant controversy, particularly with Trump’s legal team attempting to block its release. The film's depiction of Trump’s personal and professional life, including sensitive topics such as his strained marriage and use of questionable business practices, led to legal battles, with Trump labeling the film as a "defamatory" hit job. Despite the pushback, Briarcliff Entertainment secured U.S. distribution rights, and the film premiered in theaters on October 11, 2024.

At its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, The Apprentice competed for the Palme d’Or and received largely positive reviews, with particular praise for Stan’s portrayal of Trump and Strong’s menacing take on Roy Cohn. Critics lauded the film for its bold exploration of power, mentorship, and the cost of success in America.

David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter hailed the film as "an absorbing character study," while The Times’ Kevin Maher praised it as "a Donald Trump movie you never knew you needed." However, not all reviews were glowing. The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw found it lacking in depth, calling it "a cartoonish take on a complex figure."

The Apprentice stands out as a film that goes beyond simple political commentary, offering a layered exploration of the origins of Donald Trump’s philosophy. With masterful performances by Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong, the film takes an intimate look at one of the most polarizing figures in modern history, revealing the personal relationships and moral compromises that shaped his rise to power. While controversial, The Apprentice is a compelling reflection on ambition, power, and the cost of winning at all costs.

Where to Watch The Apprentice (2024)

If you're eager to watch The Apprentice (2024), the gripping biopic about Donald Trump's rise in New York's real estate world, you're in luck. The film is available for streaming and theatrical viewing. In the United States, it is distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment and can be found on popular streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play for rental or purchase. International viewers can catch the film through StudioCanal in the UK and Ireland, while Nordisk Film handles distribution in Denmark.

The film is also available in select theaters in major cities across North America, Europe, and Australia. For those who prefer streaming, availability may vary depending on region, so be sure to check local streaming services or platforms like Hulu and Netflix as release windows expand.