Fact-Checking The Apprentice: Assessing the Accuracy of Key Movie Details

The Apprentice, a biographical drama directed by Ali Abbasi, delves into Donald Trump’s formative years, particularly the high-profile and often controversial relationship he had with the notorious lawyer Roy Cohn. Featuring Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Cohn, the film explores the complexities of their partnership, despite the significant criticism it faced.

Cohn, renowned for his aggressive legal strategies, played a pivotal role in Trump’s early business endeavors in the 1970s and 1980s. From real estate ventures to complex legal battles, Cohn’s influence significantly impacted the trajectory of Trump’s career. Abbasi skillfully navigates the murky waters between historical facts and speculative narratives, prompting viewers to question the authenticity of the events portrayed.

While The Apprentice predominantly draws on real-life occurrences, it intersperses drama with fiction, sparking considerable discussion—especially timely given its release shortly before the pivotal 2024 election. Abbasi asserts that the film is meticulously researched for accuracy; however, Trump’s camp has criticized it as being embellished, particularly regarding sensitive topics such as his personal life and rumored cosmetic surgeries.

Fact-Checking Key Moments from The Apprentice

Did Roy Cohn Blackmail the Government?

False: The film presents a dramatized scenario in which Cohn is depicted as threatening government officials during a lawsuit involving Trump. This portrayal is fictional; in reality, Cohn’s tactics leaned more towards aggressive legal strategies, culminating in settlements without any admission of fault.

Did Trump Use Amphetamines?

Unclear: In The Apprentice, Trump is shown taking “diet pills,”which a physician in the film claims are amphetamines. While there is speculation that Trump may have used these substances to enhance his energy and manage his weight, he has vehemently denied these allegations. Questions linger regarding his sleep habits and notable energy levels throughout his career.

Did Trump Abandon Roy Cohn After He Contracted HIV?

Mostly True: The film illustrates a scenario in which Trump distances himself from Cohn after he is diagnosed with HIV, mirroring the stigma of that era. Although Trump did invite Cohn for a final dinner at Mar-a-Lago, many believe that Cohn felt a sense of abandonment in his declining days, a sentiment Trump has acknowledged albeit with a hint of jest.

Did Trump Undergo Liposuction and a Hair Transplant?

Varied Accounts: The Apprentice implies that Trump underwent cosmetic procedures such as liposuction and hair transplantation. While his divorce from Ivana suggested these interventions, Trump has consistently denied having any such surgeries. Reports indicate that he had a volatile response to alleged unsuccessful procedures.

Did Donald Trump Sexually Assault Ivana?

Varied Accounts: Ivana Trump referenced an incident during their marriage that she characterized as a violation, leading to assertions of rape in a deposition. Subsequently, she clarified that her statement was not meant to be understood literally, adding layers of complexity and contention to this narrative.

Was Donald Trump’s Racial Discrimination Lawsuit Real?

True: The U.S. Department of Justice launched a lawsuit against Trump and his father, alleging racial discrimination in their housing practices. This legal battle remains a significant chapter in Trump’s early business narrative and featured Cohn’s legal counsel as a prominent element.

Did Donald Trump Receive Tax Breaks from New York City?

True: Throughout his business career, Trump benefited from numerous tax incentives and financial advantages, particularly concerning his real estate projects in New York City. These maneuvers were part of broader financial strategies used by the Trump Organization, often drawing scrutiny and public debate.

Did Donald Trump Experience a Financial Crisis in the 1980s?

True: The 1980s were a challenging period for Trump, marked by substantial financial losses and subsequent bankruptcy. The Apprentice captures these tumultuous years, illustrating the risks associated with his business dealings during that time.

The film The Apprentice is currently available for theatrical viewing across the United States, with screenings starting on October 11, 2024.

Source & Images