Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump engaged with supporters following a town hall campaign event held on August 29, 2024, in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The event was well-attended, capturing the enthusiasm of his loyal base. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Despite Trump’s attempts to suppress it, a biopic titled “The Apprentice,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, is still moving forward towards a U.S. release. The film delves into Trump’s early career and personal life, charting his ascent in the New York real estate market. Notably, it includes a contentious scene depicting an alleged spousal rape of his then-wife Ivana, an element that has sparked significant controversy.

Deadline reports that “The Apprentice” is expected to be released before November, with October 11 being a likely date. This is despite a cease and desist letter sent in May and efforts by Trump-supporting Hollywood figures to halt its distribution. The movie’s release was initially delayed by a distribution company owned by Dan Snyder, the former owner of Washington’s football team. Snyder was reportedly displeased with the film’s portrayal of Trump. However, the current plan involves buying out Snyder’s stake at a 40% premium, which could clear the way for the film’s release.

The biopic stars Marvel actor Sebastian Stan as Donald Trump and Jeremy Strong from “Succession” as Trump’s mentor Roy Cohn. It is set to be distributed by Briarcliff Entertainment, known for handling previous releases from filmmakers like Michael Moore.

The film still faces obstacles in both U.S. and international markets. Distributors plan to showcase it at select film festivals, especially since its premiere at Cannes left audiences in shock.

In response to the biopic, Trump’s campaign issued a statement back in May denying the accuracy of the rape scene, describing it as “pure malicious defamation” according to Variety. Although Trump was found civilly liable for sexually abusing writer E. Jean Carroll by a New York court, he has not pursued further legal actions to block the film beyond the initial cease and desist letter, suggesting that he might lack a substantial legal basis to prevent its release.

Keywords: Donald Trump, Republican presidential nominee, town hall campaign event, La Crosse Wisconsin, “The Apprentice” biopic, Cannes Film Festival, New York real estate, Ivana Trump spousal rape scene, Dan Snyder distribution company, Briarcliff Entertainment, Sebastian Stan, Jeremy Strong, Roy Cohn, Michael Moore releases, U.S. and international markets distribution, Variety statement, E. Jean Carroll civil liability case.