The upcoming film 'The Apprentice,' directed by Ali Abbasi, stars Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong, exploring Donald Trump's rise in the 1980s under the mentorship of Roy Cohn.

Set to be released in theaters on October 9, 2024, the film aims to spark discussions about Trump's impact on democracy, especially with the U.S. election approaching.

The filmmakers believe that the film's timing is significant, as it encourages audiences to reflect on the complexities of Trump's character and his influence.

Both Stan and Strong emphasize that the film does not seek to vilify Trump or Cohn, but rather to humanize them and explore their backgrounds and motivations.

A controversial scene depicting Trump allegedly raping his first wife, Ivana, has drawn criticism, but the filmmakers argue it is essential for addressing the complexities of his character.

Despite the film's relevance, Strong has expressed concerns about censorship in Hollywood, reflecting a broader hesitation among studios to tackle controversial subjects.

Abbasi has criticized the current conservatism in Hollywood, highlighting a lack of boldness in taking artistic risks, especially in the post-pandemic landscape.

The filmmakers are aware of potential legal threats from Trump and investor Dan Snyder, which reflects the aggressive tactics learned from Cohn, according to journalist Gabriel Sherman.

Both actors immersed themselves in their roles, with Stan conducting extensive research on Trump, which included connecting personally to Trump's drive for success due to his own immigrant background.

As the film approaches its release, it aims to challenge audiences to reflect on their own motivations and behaviors in relation to the characters portrayed.

In interviews, Stan discussed the importance of humanizing Trump, a figure often viewed through a divisive lens, and suggested that everyone has a 'Trump' aspect within themselves.

The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, where it received a mixed reception, prompting discussions about its controversial subject matter.