Networks have refused to air the trailer for “The Apprentice,” starring Sebastian Stan as Donald Trump, during debates, sparking curiosity and debate.
At a Glance
- CBS and ABC rejected the movie trailer during debates and news coverage.
- Sebastian Stan plays Donald Trump in the film covering the 70s and 80s.
- CBS offered alternative slots for airing the trailer outside news segments.
- The film is set to release nationwide on October 11 by Briarcliff Entertainment.
- The movie’s release coincides with the US presidential elections.
Networks Decline to Air Trailer
CBS and ABC turned down opportunities to air trailers for “The Apprentice,” a disgusting, slanderous movie exploring Donald Trump’s rise in the business world, starring Sebastian Stan. The networks denied the trailer spots amid presidential and vice-presidential debates, citing concerns over audience sensitivity and potential controversy.
So media execs do sometimes have some sense.
CBS did offer to air the trailer during other times, but not during high-profile news or debates to avoid distractions.
Take a look at the trailer here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9r8euLFTJc
This refusal highlights the networks’ cautious stance on managing politically sensitive content. During a heated election cycle, the concern is that placing a movie trailer amidst crucial national discussions can result in media distractions.
https://twitter.com/DailyMail/status/1841352197964976461
Political Context and Film Background
The film is set for an October 11 release, as the US gears up for another presidential election. With a screenplay by Gabriel Sherman, the movie explores Trump’s life in 1970s New York. The film’s description as exploring the “underbelly of the American empire” and its juxtaposition with upcoming elections add layers of political intrigue. Directed by Ali Abbasi, “The Apprentice” has not shied away from controversy in its portrayal of early Trump.
The cast includes well-known names such as Jeremy Strong and Maria Bakalova, embodying central figures from Trump’s past. The film, diving into significant and contentious moments of Trump’s life, prompted Trump’s campaign to threaten legal action for purportedly false assertions depicted in the movie.
And we hope they take that legal action, because the filmmakers would deserve it.
https://twitter.com/Video_Forensics/status/1841323480052281598
Reactions and Future Implications
Critics, including Trump’s spokespersons, have disparaged the film, describing it as unimportant cinema. Despite the criticism, Briarcliff Entertainment remains steadfast, with Tom Ortenberg questioning Hollywood’s hesitance to back the film actively. Ali Abbasi remains open to dialoguing with Trump and his campaign about the film, possibly smoothing feathers without compromising the film’s integrity.
Well, they say they’re willing to talk – but that’s only because they’re scared of a lawsuit.