In a cinematic landscape where sequels are often met with a mix of trepidation and anticipation, Meryl Streep’s return as the formidable Miranda Priestly in *The Devil Wears Prada 2* has sparked renewed interest. As the film debuts twenty years after its iconic predecessor, Streep shares her thoughts on the necessity of this sequel, emphasising that it must resonate with contemporary issues facing journalism and media.
A Sequel with Purpose
The announcement of a follow-up to the beloved 2006 film left many scratching their heads. Why revisit a story that had already set a high bar? For Streep, the answer was straightforward: the new narrative needed to reflect the realities of today’s world. “There was one way that we would sign on to do a sequel,” she explained to BBC News. “If it spoke to the moment.”
With journalism grappling with significant challenges—dwindling print circulation, job cuts, and the rise of digital media—the film aims to capture this tumultuous landscape. “Everything has to have its own necessity for being—even the frothiest sort of fun movie,” she asserted, highlighting the need for relevance in storytelling.
Co-star Stanley Tucci, reprising his role as Nigel Kipling, echoed this sentiment. He noted that the sequel addresses the erosion of control journalists face amid the growing influence of social media and artificial intelligence. This framing not only anchors the film in the present but also invites audiences to engage with pressing issues.
Nostalgia Meets Modernity
While the challenge of living up to the original’s success was daunting, the filmmakers opted for a fresh approach rather than mere replication. Anne Hathaway, who returns as Andy Sachs, asserts that the sequel successfully illustrates the importance of participating in the world one wishes to inhabit. “I hope people realise the fate of journalism really rests on them,” she remarked.
The film, which features a plethora of stunning designer attire and star-studded cameos—from Marc Jacobs to Naomi Campbell—offers a blend of nostalgia and contemporary relevance. As the characters navigate their careers within the fashion industry, they reflect on the realities of ambition and the compromises it often entails. Emily Blunt, returning as Emily Charlton, now a high-ranking executive, highlights this evolution: “I like that the movie deals with the ideas of realisation, forgiveness, reconciliation, reclamation.”
Critical Reception and Audience Expectations
Initial reviews have been largely positive, showcasing the sequel’s ability to balance entertainment with intelligence. *Variety* praised it as “a sequel made with intelligence and respect for both its predecessor and the legions who still love it.” Conversely, *The Hollywood Reporter* criticised it as “featherweight,” perhaps implying a lack of depth. Yet, it’s clear that the film aims to provide a delightful escape while still engaging with timely themes.
The film’s focus on the female experience within the high-stakes world of fashion is another central pillar. Streep emphasises the importance of portraying ambitious women without stigma. “Ambition is seen as an unattractive quality in women,” she remarked, hoping that the film contributes to changing this narrative. Hathaway concurred, noting that stories of women dedicated to their careers are often overlooked in Hollywood.
Balancing Personal Life and Career
As the protagonists navigate their professional paths, the film also delves into the sacrifices made in their personal lives. “How you define having a full life is very personal,” Hathaway explains, reminding viewers that career satisfaction varies for everyone. Streep adds a poignant note: “No man on his deathbed says, ‘damn, I wish I’d been at the office more.’ We all want to keep our lives in balance.” This philosophical underpinning invites audiences to reflect on their own life choices and priorities.
Ultimately, the film reflects a desire to inspire while entertaining. Hathaway hopes that viewers will find motivation in the characters’ journeys. “Seeing a story that centres around a character you can connect to is a huge reason why I’m sitting here right now,” she stated, underscoring the film’s potential impact on audiences.
Why it Matters
*The Devil Wears Prada 2* is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it serves as a cultural commentary on the current state of journalism and the complexities of ambition for women in the workplace. By addressing these relevant themes, the sequel not only pays homage to its predecessor but also urges a new generation to reflect on their roles within an ever-evolving media landscape. As Streep, Hathaway, and their co-stars navigate the glittering yet tumultuous world of fashion, they invite audiences to consider what it truly means to balance ambition with personal fulfilment in today’s chaotic society.
