MOVIE REVIEW: We see if sequel ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ was worth the two-decade wait

Glitz, glamour and engaging ensemble – but falls short of its predeccesor.

Back in 2006 I remember getting dragged kicking and screaming by my future wife to see The Devil Wears Prada – and I actually enjoyed it.

It’s remarkable to think 20 years have passed since then – and even more remarkable that the main players here haven’t really changed one bit.

That goes for their characters too as, other than a few minor mentions of Andy’s (Anne Hathaway) personal life and journalism career and Emily (Emily Blunt) heading off to pastures new, this sequel feels like it could’ve been set two months later rather than two decades.

As well as the lead quartet – also including Meryl Streep’s Miranda and Stanley Tucci’s Nigel – director David Frankel and co-writers Aline Brosh McKenna and Lauren Weisberger are back on board.

And if you enjoyed the first flick you’ll lap this one up too; the outfits remain resplendent and the locations lush, while Streep is still an acidic delight, seemingly devoid of kindness or selflessness, until the odd tiny amount creeps through Miranda’s icy exterior.

Tucci’s loyal, soft-spoken Nigel is the movie’s heart and Andy maintains her desire to win Miranda’s approval, while securing her own future.

READ MORE: MOVIE REVIEW: We find out throwback horror ‘Dolly’ is far from child’s play

Blunt laps up the chance to be more villainous and Justin Theroux’s Benji is a sleazy, easily-manipulated presence.

Much of the plot focuses on the challenges impacting the journalism industry, which hit close to home for this writer but may leave others shrugging their shoulders as they await the next gorgeous gown to appear.

Patrick Brammall’s Peter, though charming, feels shoehorned in as Andy’s romantic interest and is one of the elements that could have been cut to trim down the testing two-hour running time.

But I liked how Miranda was forced to reluctantly tone down her attitude due to more modern attitudes – not many actors could make hanging a coat up a comedic highlight – and there are a few third-act surprises as several characters jostle for power.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 falls short of its predecessor but remains queen of the catwalk when it comes to glitz, glamour, an engaging ensemble and a personal peek behind the curtain of the fashion industry.

● Pop me an email at ian.bunting@reachplc.com and I will pass on any movie or TV show recommendations you have to your fellow readers.

● The Devil Wears Prada 2 is showing in cinemas now.

*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.

And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.