DeepSummary
Jake Lahut, a political reporter at The Daily Beast, shares details about the controversial biopic "The Apprentice" that depicts Donald Trump's early years and his association with the late lawyer Roy Cohn. The film, which debuted at the Cannes Film Festival, faced backlash from Trump's attorneys who sent cease-and-desist letters to prevent its distribution. The movie's financing is linked to former Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder, who reportedly has veto power over the film's release in the United States due to his financial stake in the production company.
The movie's content, including a rape scene involving Trump and his former wife Ivana, has generated controversy. Lahut discusses the potential impact of the film on the 2024 election and the reluctance of major streaming platforms to distribute the movie, fearing retaliation from Trump if he regains power. The episode explores the complexities surrounding the release of a politically charged film and the influence of powerful figures in shaping narratives.
Lahut analyzes the reasons behind the hesitation of streaming platforms to distribute the film, citing concerns about potential retaliatory actions from Trump if he returns to power. The episode delves into the broader implications of censorship and the challenges faced by filmmakers in bringing controversial stories to the public.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The biopic 'The Apprentice' portrays a controversial depiction of Donald Trump's early years and his relationship with lawyer Roy Cohn.
- The film's content, including scenes of rape and graphic medical procedures, has sparked backlash from Trump's legal team.
- The movie's distribution in the United States is in jeopardy due to the influence of former Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder, who has a financial stake in the production company.
- Major streaming platforms are hesitant to distribute the film, fearing potential retaliatory actions from Trump if he regains power.
- The episode explores the broader implications of censorship and the challenges faced by filmmakers in bringing controversial stories to the public.
- The film's release could potentially impact the narrative surrounding Trump in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election.
- The episode highlights the complexities of balancing artistic expression, political narratives, and the influence of powerful figures in shaping public discourse.
- The controversy surrounding 'The Apprentice' raises questions about the role of media and entertainment in shaping public opinion and the potential consequences for those who challenge powerful figures.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “When you see it on the screen, it's very hard to unsee it.“ by Jake Lahut
- “You know, I'm not sure. But look, if Trump is able to have this kind of indirect influence now and have a movie get shelved before he's won anything, you know, before he's regained power, what's gonna happen when he does, if and when he does win?“ by Jake Lahut
- “However, I'm also talking to these folks under the condition of anonymity because they know that if, like, if the boss sees them talking about this movie, that's gonna cause a problem for them.“ by Jake Lahut
- “And it appears that the movies, you know, basic premise is. But for Roy Cohn, Donald Trump would not be this way.“ by Jake Lahut
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Episode Information
What Next | Daily News and Analysis
Slate Podcasts
6/25/24