David Frankel on The Devil Wears Prada Reunion & Unanswered Questions

Twenty years after its initial release, The Devil Wears Prada returned to the big screen, prompting director David Frankel to reflect on the challenges and rewards of revisiting the iconic film. Frankel discussed the pressures of a sequel, his favorite line from the movie, and the reasons behind certain cast members not reprising their roles in a recent interview with Gold Derby.

Returning to the Runway

Frankel explained that the idea for a sequel stemmed from a simple question: “What if Miranda got in trouble and Andy was the only person who could save her?” This premise, he felt, offered a compelling narrative arc and a chance to explore the evolving dynamic between Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly and Anne Hathaway’s Andy Sachs.

The director acknowledged the significant expectations surrounding the sequel, stating, We have big shoes to fill. He emphasized the importance of honoring the original film’s legacy while also delivering a fresh and engaging story for a new audience. Frankel also noted the surreal feeling of reuniting with the cast and crew two decades later.

A Favorite Line and Absent Faces

When asked about his favorite one-liner from The Devil Wears Prada, Frankel pointed to Miranda’s cutting remark about Andy’s appearance: That’s what I wanted to hear. He appreciated the line’s succinctness and its ability to encapsulate Miranda’s character—a woman who is both intimidating and impeccably stylish.

The sequel features the return of Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt, alongside Stanley Tucci. However, not all original cast members were able to participate. Frankel did not elaborate on the specific reasons for their absence, but acknowledged that scheduling conflicts and other commitments played a role.

Anna Wintour’s Cameo

Despite not being directly addressed in the Gold Derby interview, reports indicate that Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, widely believed to be the inspiration for Miranda Priestly, filmed a cameo appearance in The Devil Wears Prada 2. This information was revealed by Frankel in an interview with Entertainment Weekly, according to a Facebook post by MovieTVNewsOfficial.

The Original’s Enduring Appeal

The Devil Wears Prada, released in 2006, became a cultural phenomenon, lauded for its sharp wit, compelling characters, and insightful commentary on the fashion industry. The film follows Andy Sachs, a recent college graduate, as she navigates the cutthroat world of high fashion while working as an assistant to Miranda Priestly, the formidable editor-in-chief of Runway magazine.

The film’s success spawned numerous imitations and solidified its place in cinematic history. The sequel aims to recapture the magic of the original while exploring new themes and challenges for its beloved characters. The recent SAG Awards reunion of Streep, Hathaway, and Blunt, which included a humorous stumble by Streep, further fueled anticipation for the film’s release, as reported by Virgin Radio UK.

Frankel’s reflections offer a glimpse into the creative process behind The Devil Wears Prada 2, highlighting the delicate balance between honoring the past and embracing the future. As the film prepares to hit theaters, audiences are eager to see if it can live up to the legacy of its predecessor.