The Rise of Darkness in Recent Cinema: Exploring The Apprentice, Smile 2, and the Hellboy Reboot

In an era where cinematic narratives often reflect the complexities of contemporary society, three recent films—The Apprentice, Smile 2, and Hellboy: The Crooked Man—demonstrate how themes of power, horror, and redemption play out against a backdrop of cultural critique and genre redefinition.

Examining the complexities of power and influence through cinematic lenses.

The Apprentice: Trumpian Shadows and Cultural Critique

The Apprentice, an audacious drama depicting Donald Trump’s rise to power, stands out as a deeply incisive study of ambition and moral decay. Penned by Gabriel Sherman and directed by Ali Abbasi, the film opens a window into the seedy underbelly of New York politics, showcasing a young Trump—masterfully portrayed by Sebastian Stan—as he is molded by the notorious lawyer Roy Cohn. Cohn, played with aplomb by Jeremy Strong, is depicted not only as Trump’s mentor but also as a menacing embodiment of the underhanded tactics that pervade the political landscape.

This cinematic portrayal throws light on Trump’s evolution from an inexperienced real estate heir to a media-savvy mogul, trained in the art of deception. “Play the man, not the ball; admit nothing, deny everything; attack, attack, attack.” Cohn’s philosophy, echoing throughout the film, offers insight into the ruthless strategies that define Trump’s public persona today.

As the narrative progresses, viewers see the intimate connection between Trump and Cohn. Cohn’s eventual descent into illness juxtaposes Trump’s social climbing, hinting at the personal sacrifices and moral compromises that characterize their relationship. The film’s visual story arc transitions from a gritty 1970s aesthetic to the gaudy brand of the 1980s, mirroring the man Trump’s character ultimately becomes.

Smile 2: A Chilling Return to Horror

In stark contrast to The Apprentice, Smile 2 arrives on the scene as a horror sequel, continuing the story of a shape-shifting demon with ties to the darker sides of fame. Directed and written by Parker Finn, this film may lack post-credits thrills, but it more than compensates with a raw exploration of the music industry’s insidious nature—particularly through the lens of its turbulent protagonist, played by Naomi Scott.

Though the film doesn’t hit the same terror benchmarks as its predecessor, it invites audiences into a world where celebrity and madness coexist, resulting in a story both haunting and reflective of our societal obsessions. Critics have noted that while the film doesn’t quite match its terrifying original, it still delivers an insightful critique on the cost of fame.

The unsettling score by Cristobal Tapia de Veer enhances the film’s ambiance, seamlessly blending horror elements with moments of psychological intensity that resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.

The horror genre evolves with every tale, offering reflections of our deepest fears.

Hellboy: The Crooked Man: Resurrecting a Cult Classic

Finally, Hellboy: The Crooked Man presents a fresh take on the beloved comic-book character, thrusting him into a haunting narrative steeped in Appalachian folklore. Directed by Brian Taylor and showcasing Jack Kesy as the titular demon, the film adopts a self-contained storytelling approach, re-establishing Hellboy’s legacy while crafting a narrative that feels both familiar and new.

While many fans may cherish Guillermo del Toro’s adaptations, this reboot ventures into unexplored territory, offering a narrative that emphasizes smaller-scale adventures rather than apocalyptic showdowns. The film’s strong character dynamics, illustrated through Hellboy’s camaraderie with his B.P.R.D. colleague Jo, enable it to resonate with audiences.

The vision portrayed is gritty and tactile, reminding viewers of the raw craftsmanship behind older horror tales. The budget of $20 million is well-utilized, resulting in a film that, despite some visual hiccups, draws audiences into an immersive experience—resembling a loved paperback comic that offers warmth and nostalgia.

Hellboy returns with a narrative that bridges old and new realms of storytelling.

Conclusion: A Cinematic Reflection of Modern Society

Together, these films reflect an evolving landscape of cinema that blends genres and themes to question societal norms. The Apprentice challenges viewers to rethink notions of power, Smile 2 invites them to confront the horrors of fame, and Hellboy: The Crooked Man revitalizes a beloved character in a way that respects its roots while offering a new lens of exploration. This confluence of narratives serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of film and its ability to echo the tumultuous tides of contemporary culture.

As we continue to embrace these varied stories, one thing remains clear: cinema remains a powerful medium for reflection—both of ourselves and our society.

Tags

movies, horror, biopics, Trump, Hellboy