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Adapted from Lauren Weisberger’s novel, The Devil Wears Prada is a groundbreaking film that challenges gender norms by portraying women in positions of authority within the fashion industry. Despite the industry’s perceived frivolity, the movie provides a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of trendsetters who shape our daily styles.
Screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna faced challenges as industry insiders were reluctant to talk to her, fearing repercussions from Anna Wintour, the Vogue editor-in-chief who inspired Meryl Streep’s character. Wintour’s influence was so profound that even elite figures in fashion avoided McKenna. The film, with its high-fashion focus, not only resonated with audiences but also earned approval from Wintour herself.
In the realm of empowering women-led casts and stylish narratives, here are 10 recommended movies for those who enjoyed The Devil Wears Prada.
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10 Movies to Watch if You Liked The Devil Wears Prada
The September Issue (2009)
“The September Issue provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the hectic and meticulous process of creating Vogue’s pivotal annual edition. Anna Wintour, the authoritative figure, orchestrates the chaos, directing various professionals like assistants, directors, designers, models, and photographers. Unlike The Devil Wears Prada, a fictional account inspired by Wintour’s role, this documentary offers a real-life portrayal of the fashion journalism world. It unveils the authentic dynamics and exhaustive efforts involved in producing the most significant magazine issue of the year. The film, available for streaming on Prime Video, captures the genuine challenges and fast-paced nature of the fashion industry without the embellishments of fiction.”
13 Going on 30 (2004)
In the delightful romantic comedy “13 Going on 30,” Jennifer Garner portrays Jenna Rink, a woman who magically ages overnight to 30 years old after making a birthday wish to be “30, flirty, and thriving.” In her quest to navigate her unfamiliar adult life, Jenna, much like Andy from “The Devil Wears Prada,” stumbles into the fashion industry. While Andy contends with the challenges posed by Miranda Priestly, Jenna grapples with her own self-sabotage, realizing she needs to set things right. The film is available for streaming on Netflix.
The Intern (2015)
In The Intern, Anne Hathaway takes on a different role from her character in The Devil Wears Prada. Instead of playing the editor-in-chief’s assistant, Hathaway portrays Jules, the founder of a thriving online fashion platform. The story revolves around Jules being paired with a senior intern, played by Robert De Niro, as part of a company initiative to involve older individuals while offering guidance to younger employees. Despite Jules’ initial reluctance due to her private and overworked life, a bond forms between her and the senior intern, leading to mutual growth.
Comparisons can be drawn between The Intern and The Devil Wears Prada, showcasing Hathaway’s versatility as an actress. While Hathaway’s character in The Intern holds a position of authority, she differs from Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada. Jules commands respect without striking fear, presenting a more wholesome portrayal in the challenging world of the fashion industry. The Intern can be seen as a spiritual sequel, depicting an evolved version of Hathaway’s character from the earlier film. The movie is available for streaming on Max.
Coco Before Chanel (2009)
“Coco Before Chanel” chronicles the early life of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, depicting her rise from orphanhood to becoming a legendary figure in the fashion world. The film begins with Chanel’s father abandoning her and her sister at an orphanage, and as she grows older, she explores clothing design after working as a singer. Unlike depending on men, Chanel focuses on her career, rejecting charity and avoiding romantic entanglements. Similar to Miranda Priestly in “The Devil Wears Prada,” Chanel emerges as a powerful and iconic figure, showcasing her journey from humble beginnings to global success. Witnessing her transformation serves as a source of inspiration, mirroring the allure and impact of powerful women in the fashion industry.
Coyote Ugly (2000)
Piper Perabo takes on the role of Violet in Coyote Ugly, portraying a New Jersey native aspiring to make it big in the New York City music scene. After facing numerous setbacks in getting her music noticed, Violet ends up working in a bar that is not just a place to drink but a lifestyle in itself. The bar’s owner, Lil, played by Maria Bello, is strict, has her own set of rules, and is hesitant to give second chances.
Drawing parallels to The Devil Wears Prada, despite the vastly different settings and industries, Lil and Miranda Priestly share similarities. Both women manage their businesses according to their vision, understand what leads to success, and take a chance on a young woman seeking a temporary job while pursuing larger aspirations. While Coyote Ugly has a more energetic and working-class vibe, it provides a contrast to the judgmental atmosphere of the fashion world led by the powerful Miranda Priestly. You can find Coyote Ugly on Prime Video.
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Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Audrey Hepburn’s enduring legacy as a fashion icon is significantly attributed to her role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, which elevated her popularity and established her as a star. In the film, Hepburn portrays Holly Golightly, a Texan-turned-New York socialite with a penchant for the finer things in life. Engaging in a weekly arrangement with a mobster, she navigates the challenges of sustaining her luxurious lifestyle.
Comparatively, The Devil Wears Prada shares thematic elements with Breakfast at Tiffany’s. While the latter focuses on a young woman’s desire to indulge in the world of fashion consumption rather than working within it, Anne Hathaway, much like Hepburn in her time, represents the cinematic darling of the contemporary era. This contrast between the actress’s public image and her on-screen character adds both humor and delight for fans. The film is available for streaming on Paramount+.
Julie & Julia (2009)
In Julie & Julia, the film draws parallels between the lives of two remarkable women, Julia Child and Julie Powell, separated by nearly five decades. Portrayed by Meryl Streep and Amy Adams, the movie showcases Child’s challenging culinary beginnings and her influence on modern-day blogger Julie, who embarks on the ambitious task of cooking all of Child’s recipes. This delightful narrative unfolds with Streep embodying a lively and proud Julia, in stark contrast to her role in The Devil Wears Prada, where she had to delve into a darker character. Additionally, the film reunites Streep with Stanley Tucci, her former co-star from The Devil Wears Prada, as he takes on the role of Child’s supportive husband. The joyous and authentic portrayal of these real-life personalities by Streep, Tucci, and Adams provides a comforting and entertaining experience for audiences. Available for rent on AppleTV.
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
In Confessions of a Shopaholic, protagonist Becky Bloomwood is eager to bridge the gap between being a fashion consumer and producer. Despite accumulating significant debt, she pursues her passion with style. Her attempt to break into the fashion business and write about it faces unexpected challenges when she ironically lands a job as a columnist for Successful Saving. Similar to The Devil Wears Prada, both films depict women (Becky and Andy) taking stepping stone jobs to pursue their writing careers in slightly different fields. However, Confessions of a Shopaholic maintains a lighter and more upbeat tone, emphasizing the theme of working hard and adapting perspectives. The parallel of learning to embrace the current job and its demands is a shared sentiment in both storylines. The film is available for streaming on Disney+.
Sex and the City: The Movie (2008)
Carrie Bradshaw, portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, is celebrated as a fashion icon unapologetically embracing her avant-garde wardrobe in Sex and the City: The Movie. The film follows her journey as she attempts to marry Mr. Big, but when the focus shifts more towards the wedding spectacle than their love, the plans are called off. Subsequently, Carrie rediscovers herself and takes charge of her life, while her friends navigate their own relationship challenges.
Drawing parallels with The Devil Wears Prada, it’s essential to note that both movies share a common thread behind the scenes – Patricia Field. As a fashion designer, costume designer, and stylist deeply involved in high fashion, Field played a crucial role in bringing the characters’ wardrobes to life in both films. Despite the different narratives, both movies revolve around powerful women in the fashion industry, with Field’s expertise ensuring authenticity in their style. Both films are available for streaming on Netflix.
Second Act (2018)
In “Second Act,” Jennifer Lopez takes on the role of Maya Vargas, an assistant manager passed over for a promotion due to her lack of formal education. Frustrated by biased treatment from her boss, Maya embellishes her resume with some white lies, claiming a Harvard background and extensive travels. This leads to a better job opportunity, but she soon realizes that success involves more than just impressing her boss and team.
The parallels with “The Devil Wears Prada” are evident, as Lopez’s character, Maya, shares similarities with Anne Hathaway’s Andy Sachs. Both women face judgment based on their backgrounds and career aspirations, yet Maya grapples with the challenge of balancing her personal life with her professional ambitions. Jennifer Lopez received acclaim for her performance, earning a nomination for the Imagen Award for Best Actress. The movie is available for streaming on Hulu.
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