The highly controversial film “The Apprentice,” which portrays the formative years of former U.S. President Donald Trump, is set for release in the United States just ahead of the presidential election. Distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment, the film will hit theaters in the United States and Canada on October 11.

Directed by Iranian-Danish filmmaker Ali Abbasi, “The Apprentice” delves into Trump’s life during the 1970s and 1980s. The film sparked significant controversy due to a scene that allegedly depicts Trump sexually assaulting his first wife, Ivana. During their divorce proceedings in 1992, Ivana made similar accusations but later retracted them. Ivana Trump passed away in 2022.

In addition to this controversial scene, the film also includes moments showcasing Trump undergoing cosmetic procedures such as liposuction and scalp treatments for hair loss. After its screening at the Cannes Film Festival, Trump’s legal team threatened to file a lawsuit, denouncing the film as pure fiction and malicious defamation, sensationalizing debunked lies.

“The Apprentice” is also slated for release in South Korea on October 23. Despite its initial premiere at the prestigious Cannes International Film Festival in May, the film struggled to secure a U.S. distributor, casting doubt on whether it would be available before the presidential election.

The film’s depiction of such sensitive and disputed events has fueled debates over its accuracy and intent, with some labeling it as a daring exposé and others condemning it as a blatant smear campaign. As its release date approaches, anticipation and controversy continue to swirl around “The Apprentice,” ensuring it remains a focal point in discussions leading up to the election.