Donald Trump has issued a cease-and-desist order against the film The Apprentice. His legal team is attempting to block its U.S. release. The controversial biopic explores Trump’s early career and relationship with attorney Roy Cohn.
Variety reports that Trump’s lawyers are fiercely trying to prevent any distribution deals for the film. It made waves at its debut at the Cannes Film Festival.
Despite the legal threat, the film’s producers stand by their work. They claim the biopic is a balanced representation of Trump’s life. “We want everyone to see it and then decide,” they stated.
The film stars Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Cohn. It portrays Trump in a highly critical light, touching on accusations of serious misconduct.
Trump’s team has condemned the film as defamation. “This ‘film’ belongs in a dumpster fire,” said Trump’s campaign communications director, Steven Cheung.
The film is directed by Ali Abbasi and written by Gabriel Sherman. At Cannes, Abbasi commented on Trump’s history of legal threats and his track record in court. He also invited Trump to a private screening, suggesting Trump might appreciate the film more than expected.
