Sebastian Stan has made headlines in 2024, especially after securing a Golden Globe for his performance in the acclaimed A24 film, A Different Man. Following this success, there was widespread anticipation for further accolades, including recognition for his portrayal of Donald Trump in the film The Apprentice.
In the Ali Abbasi-directed project, Stan embraced the character by donning Trump’s signature blonde toupé. His take on the former President was not particularly flattering and he openly discussed the complexities of embodying such a controversial figure. In his preparation for the role, Stan described Trump as an “insecure little man,” a characterization that shaped his performance.
In a recent conversation with Awards Watch‘s Brandon Lewis, Stan was prompted to reflect on Trump’s inherent nature. His insights painted a candid picture of the former president.
Stan remarked, “What I see in Trump is a very broken, pained, paranoid, insecure little boy.” He emphasized that this observation is not intended to evoke sympathy but rather to underscore the flaws that impede Trump’s ability to wield power or possess moral authority. “I don’t know if that’s a person I would necessarily trust,” he added, further interrogating the ethical dimensions of Trump’s leadership.
Moreover, Stan believes Trump lacks true moral authority, instead acting from a perspective of transactionality. This perceived absence of empathy raises unsettling questions about the implications of such an ethos for a President, particularly concerning the well-being of the populace.
Examining the American Dream
Another captivating theme discussed during Stan’s interview was his exploration of the American Dream, particularly in relation to his experiences. Originally from Romania, Stan emigrated to the United States as a child. He explained that playing Trump has allowed him to confront the weight of the American Dream that has shaped his life.
Reflecting on his family’s sacrifices, Stan shared a profound memory from his youth: “When I came to America, my mom said to me, ‘We’re here now, and I’ve sacrificed my life, and you’ve got to make something of yourself because you have this opportunity that so many kids are not going to have.’” This imperative fuels his ambition, yet he also grapples with the immense pressure that accompanies such expectations and the fear of failure. “There’s always something else,” he noted, commenting on the relentless pursuit of success that characterizes many individuals in pursuit of their dreams.
He further articulated his belief that The Apprentice encapsulates the essence of the American Dream. “To me, The Apprentice is part of this ideology. When is it enough, and what does it do to a person?” Stan remarked, emphasizing how his own journey and quest for understanding America profoundly influenced his portrayal.
For those interested in exploring Stan’s compelling performance and themes, The Apprentice is currently available for rent on prominent streaming platforms.
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