In a move that has sent ripples through the film industry, former President Donald Trump's attorneys have issued a cease and desist letter to the creators of the controversial film, "The Apprentice." The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, is now facing potential legal hurdles in its bid for a U.S. distribution deal.
"The Apprentice" is a cinematic portrayal of Trump's early years as a real estate developer and his relationship with Roy Cohn. The film, directed by Iranian-Danish filmmaker Ali Abbasi and scripted by journalist Gabriel Sherman, features Sebastian Stan as Trump and Jeremy Strong as Cohn. The narrative presents a critical view of the former president, including allegations of unethical business practices and personal misconduct.
Trump's legal team, however, has vehemently objected to the film's content. In a strongly worded letter, they described the film as "pure malicious defamation" and a "concoction of lies that repeatedly defames President Trump." The letter also accuses the film of constituting "direct foreign interference in America's elections," due to its funding from Canada, Ireland, and other countries.
The film's producers have defended their work, stating that it is a "fair and balanced portrait of the former president." They expressed their desire for the public to view the film and form their own opinions. Abbasi, in response to the legal threats, offered to screen the movie for Trump, suggesting that the former president might not dislike the film.
Despite the cease and desist letter, it remains to be seen whether Trump's legal team will follow through with their threats of legal action. As noted by Abbasi at a press conference in Cannes, Trump has a history of threatening lawsuits but often does not follow through.
The film has yet to secure a U.S. distribution deal, and the legal threats may give potential buyers pause. However, the controversy surrounding the film could also serve to heighten interest, making it a hot commodity in the film industry.
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