Disney is developing a sequel to the beloved film “The Devil Wears Prada,” with Aline Brosh McKenna confirmed to write the script. The original movie, released on June 30, 2006, became a massive hit, grossing $326 million worldwide on a $35 million budget. It catapulted Anne Hathaway to new heights of fame, provided breakout roles for Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, and earned Meryl Streep her 14th Oscar nomination for her iconic portrayal of Miranda Priestly.
The sequel’s plot will reportedly focus on Meryl Streep’s character, Miranda Priestly, as she navigates her career amid the decline of traditional magazine publishing. Emily Blunt’s character, Emily Charlton, will also play a significant role, now a high-powered executive for a luxury group with the financial resources Priestly needs. This setup promises an intriguing dynamic between the two characters, potentially pitting them against each other in a high-stakes battle within the fashion industry.
The original director, David Frankel, is set to return, although there is no confirmation yet on the full cast. It remains uncertain whether Streep or Blunt will reprise their roles, or if Anne Hathaway’s Andy Sachs and Stanley Tucci’s Nigel Kipling will be part of the story. However, the involvement of Aline Brosh McKenna, who penned the original screenplay, suggests that the sequel will stay true to the spirit of the first film.
The announcement of the sequel comes just a few days after the film’s 18th anniversary, adding to the excitement for fans who have long awaited a continuation of the story. The original film, based on Lauren Weisberger’s 2003 novel of the same name, has remained a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its sharp wit, memorable performances, and insider look at the fashion industry.
Disney’s decision to develop a sequel to “The Devil Wears Prada” is part of a broader trend of revisiting and revitalizing beloved properties. The studio is also working on a legacy sequel to “Freaky Friday,” another popular film from the early 2000s. This strategy aims to capitalize on the nostalgia of audiences who grew up with these films while introducing them to a new generation.
The original “The Devil Wears Prada” film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its smart script, strong performances, and stylish direction. Meryl Streep’s portrayal of Miranda Priestly, a character inspired by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, became iconic, with her icy demeanor and cutting remarks leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Emily Blunt’s performance as the ambitious and acerbic assistant Emily Charlton also garnered significant acclaim, establishing her as a rising star in Hollywood.
The film’s success was not only due to its stellar cast but also its insightful commentary on the fashion industry and the sacrifices required to succeed in such a competitive field. Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy Sachs, served as the audience’s entry point into this glamorous yet ruthless world, providing a relatable perspective on the challenges of balancing personal and professional aspirations.
Given the enduring popularity of “The Devil Wears Prada,” the sequel has the potential to be a major hit for Disney. Fans are eager to see how the characters have evolved and what new challenges they will face in the ever-changing landscape of the fashion industry. The decline of traditional magazine publishing, a central theme in the sequel’s plot, reflects real-world trends, adding a layer of relevance and authenticity to the story.
While details about the sequel are still emerging, the involvement of key creative talents from the original film bodes well for its success. Aline Brosh McKenna’s return as the screenwriter ensures continuity in the film’s tone and style, while David Frankel’s direction promises to bring the same level of sophistication and flair that made the first film a standout.
As fans eagerly await more news about the sequel, the announcement has already generated significant buzz and anticipation. The prospect of seeing Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt potentially reprise their roles is particularly exciting, as their performances were among the highlights of the original film. Whether the sequel will include other beloved characters like Andy Sachs and Nigel Kipling remains to be seen, but their inclusion would undoubtedly be a welcome addition for fans.
In conclusion, the development of a sequel to “The Devil Wears Prada” is a thrilling prospect for fans of the original film. With Aline Brosh McKenna writing the script and David Frankel returning as director, the sequel promises to capture the magic of the first film while exploring new and relevant themes. As Disney continues to revisit and revitalize beloved properties, “The Devil Wears Prada” sequel stands out as a highly anticipated project that has the potential to captivate audiences once again.
Source: Puck, Variety
