There Was One Way We’d Agreed to Do Devil Wears Prada 2, Says Meryl Streep

There was one way we d agreed – Two decades after the first *Devil Wears Prada* captivated audiences, its sequel has finally arrived, sparking renewed discussion about its relevance in today’s media landscape. When the announcement came, the immediate reaction centered on a single question: *Why now?* For Meryl Streep, who brought the iconic Miranda Priestly to life, the answer was clear. “There was one way that we would sign on to do a sequel,” she tells BBC News. “If it spoke to the moment.” This sentiment underscores the film’s intent to mirror real-world shifts in journalism, from shrinking print editions to the rise of digital platforms. Streep’s belief in the sequel’s necessity is echoed by the cast, who collectively highlight how the story evolved to reflect contemporary challenges.

Relevance in a Changing World

Streep’s words resonate deeply with the film’s exploration of modern journalism’s struggles. The sequel captures the tension between traditional media and the digital age, touching on topics like staff reductions, the erosion of print’s dominance, and the influence of social media and AI on editorial control. “Everything has to have its own necessity for being—even the frothiest sort of fun movie,” she emphasizes. This philosophy extends to the film’s characters, who are now navigating a “whole new landscape” shaped by technological advancements and shifting audience expectations. While the original film was a sharp satire of the fashion industry, the sequel adds layers of commentary on the broader implications of media evolution.

Stanley Tucci, who reprises his role as Miranda’s creative director Nigel Kipling, adds that the film’s themes are intentionally aligned with current issues. “It’s dealing with the loss of control journalists face because of social media and AI,” he explains. This perspective aligns with Streep’s view that the sequel must “speak to the moment,” bridging the gap between the past and present. Anne Hathaway, portraying Andy Sachs—the protagonist who returns as Runway’s new features editor—agrees. “One of the things I think the film does really well is show you have to participate in the world you want to live,” she says. Her statement reflects the movie’s broader message about the importance of engagement in an era of information overload.

The Legacy of the Original

Despite the sequel’s modern focus, it retains the charm and wit that made the 2006 film a cultural phenomenon. The original’s blend of humor, fashion, and sharp dialogue is still present, though the new installment introduces a more nuanced approach to storytelling. “It sounds like we’ve made *Spotlight* or something, but no, we’ve made *Devil Wears Prada*—there’s a lot of fun and fashion,” Streep jokes, capturing the balance the film strikes between entertainment and commentary. This duality is further emphasized by Tucci, who calls the sequel “a nice bit of escapism” at a time when global events often feel overwhelming.

The film’s setting remains a key element, with New York and Milan serving as vibrant backdrops for the characters’ journeys. These locations not only evoke the original’s glamour but also symbolize the interconnectedness of the fashion and journalism worlds. Emily Blunt, who stars as Emily Charlton—a high-up luxury retail executive—notes that her character’s arc reflects the evolving roles of women in both industries. “I want people to have a joy bomb,” she says, encouraging audiences to experience the film with friends and embrace its nostalgic appeal. Her performance as Emily adds a new dimension to the story, showing how career ambitions can transcend traditional media roles.

Cast Insights and Female Leadership

The sequel’s success hinges on its portrayal of the three female leads: Streep’s Miranda Priestly, Blunt’s Emily Charlton, and Hathaway’s Andy Sachs. These characters serve as a microcosm for the challenges and triumphs of women in competitive fields. “Stories about women who love what they do—those who work at it and prioritize it—are few and far between in Hollywood,” Hathaway points out. This observation highlights the film’s significance as a platform for female-driven narratives, which have become increasingly important in an industry historically dominated by male perspectives.

Streep believes the sequel sends a powerful message to young women pursuing careers. “For young women who pursue a career, it’s always been [the case that] ambition is seen as an unattractive quality,” she notes. Yet, the film’s characters defy this stereotype, showcasing their determination and resilience. Blunt, who plays Emily, acknowledges the sacrifices required in such roles. “The female protagonists are having to make sacrifices,” she says, hinting at the emotional and professional trade-offs that come with success in high-stakes environments.

Reception and Critical Acclaim

So far, the film has received largely positive reviews, with critics praising its intelligence and respect for its predecessor. *Variety* calls it “a sequel made with intelligence and respect for both its predecessor and the legions who still love it,” while *The Guardian* highlights its “good-natured, buoyant entertainment.” However, *Empire* points out that the sequel could have benefited from “higher stakes,” suggesting that the plot’s light-hearted tone might have been more impactful with a stronger central conflict. Meanwhile, *The Hollywood Reporter* describes it as “pretty polished and as featherweight as a fawning magazine puff piece,” a nod to the film’s glossy aesthetic and accessible storytelling.

Despite these mixed assessments, the sequel is widely seen as a worthy addition to the franchise. Its ability to honor the original’s spirit while addressing modern concerns has been praised for its adaptability. “The success of these women is once again at the forefront,” Streep says, underscoring the film’s role in celebrating female leadership. This focus on empowerment is a key thread in the narrative, as each character grapples with balancing personal and professional life in an ever-changing industry. The film’s dialogue, though still packed with snarky one-liners, now carries a deeper weight, reflecting the characters’ growth and the stakes of their ambitions.

Behind the Scenes

The sequel, written by Aline Brosh McKenna and directed by David Frankel, is a testament to the team’s commitment to reimagining the original. McKenna, who also penned the first film, brings a fresh perspective to the story, weaving in contemporary elements without losing the core essence of *Devil Wears Prada*. The cast’s dynamic, including Streep’s commanding presence and Blunt’s charismatic portrayal of Emily, ensures that the film remains both entertaining and thought-provoking. Hathaway’s Andy Sachs, now in a higher position within Runway, exemplifies the journey from entry-level to executive, a narrative that resonates with audiences seeking relatable career progression.

While the film does not shy away from the challenges of modern journalism, it also celebrates the industry’s enduring appeal. The inclusion of celebrity cameos, such as Marc Jacobs and Naomi Campbell, adds a touch of glamour that complements the story’s themes. As the characters navigate their roles in a world increasingly defined by digital trends, the sequel offers a blend of nostalgia and innovation, proving that even in a rapidly changing landscape, the essence of fashion and ambition remains timeless.