Clint Eastwood, iconic filmmaker and actor, has recently made headlines for turning down the opportunity to direct one of 2024's most controversial films, The Apprentice. This biopic focuses on the rise of former President Donald Trump, showcasing his transition from real estate mogul to reality TV star. The film has stirred considerable debate even before its release, and Eastwood’s choice not to hop on board has sparked discussions about the current climate of Hollywood and the risks involved with politically charged content.
It's noteworthy to mention, especially as 2024 is pivotal for U.S. politics, with Trump running for the presidency again against current Vice President Kamala Harris. Given the timing, The Apprentice seemed like it could have been both timely and provocative. Directed by Ali Abbasi, known for Border and Holy Spider, the film also stars Sebastian Stan, famed for his role as Bucky Barnes, portraying Trump himself.
During a recent interview, Abbasi shared the struggles he faced finding directors willing to undertake what was seen as a relitively risky project. Alongside Eastwood, the acclaimed Paul Thomas Anderson also declined the offer. Abbasi stated, "The producers of 'The Apprentice' were having a difficult time finding the right director who would risk his career. Paul Thomas Anderson said no. Clint Eastwood as well." This admission sheds light on the industry's hesitance when it involves controversial material.
The decision from legends like Eastwood and Anderson isn't entirely surprising. At 94, Eastwood is selective about the projects he takes on, and the stakes associated with directing The Apprentice brought potential risks to the table. Unlike his past projects, which exhibited real-life figures such as those portrayed in American Sniper and Sully, the portrayal of Trump has been muddied with controversy and lawsuits surrounding the film’s content.
Indeed, the film has had its share of obstacles, including the difficulty of securing distribution, as Abbott remarked, "Hollywood was afraid of it." This highlights the underlying tension within the industry — balancing creative expression against business risks. Eastwood’s age may have played a role here; at his life stage, pursuing ventures exclusively for passion makes sense.
Hollywood’s notoriously conservative nature, combined with Eastwood's established legacy, creates pressure on any project he joins. If he were associated with The Apprentice, could it have suffered from backlash? That may have been on the minds of directors who choose to stay away. Abbasi eloquently noted, “Hollywood is a great creative machine; it’s also a conservative company,” raising significant points about censorship and the industry’s reception of topics with polarizing figures.
Despite the controversies, The Apprentice has received some favorable reviews, with attendees at festivals appreciating its artistic take. One review from Fantastic Fest awarded the film a 7 out of 10, mentioning, “The problem, for me, is this is a movie nobody really wants right now. A few years from now? Maybe.” Unfortunately, the box office results reveal a different story; as of today, the film has made only about $8 million globally against its $16 million budget.
While Eastwood’s potential involvement could have stirred headlines and likely increased interest, audiences may not have been ready for this depiction of Trump amid his candidacy announcement season. The timing certainly creates more questions than answers about the film's future at the box office. With The Apprentice currently screening, potential audiences are left to speculate the next steps for the film as it faces hurdles of acceptance within its political and entertainment contexts.
Looking forward, Eastwood continues to create debate within film circles, as he recently released his latest project, possibly his final film entitled Juror #2. This film has received commendable reviews, emphasizing Eastwood's enduring talent and relevance even as he approaches the twilight of his remarkable career. His work attests to his status as not just an actor but as one of Hollywood’s most important directors, who has shaped the industry for decades and is still holding the public’s attention at this late stage.
Despite turning down The Apprentice, Clint Eastwood’s undisputed influence and creative contributions to the film industry remain intact, as his legacy continues shaping conversations within Hollywood and beyond.