The Devil Wears Prada 2, the long gestating sequel to the splendid original from 2006, proves that lightning rarely strikes twice, and while this film retains some of the previous cast’s chemistry, the magic is not quite there.
Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) and her current magazine suffer massive layoffs as the print industry is reeling from industry changes while Runway editor Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) and her ever loyal designer, Nigel (Stanley Tucci), face bad press and an upheaval in ownership that signals a sweeping overhaul. As Andy is tasked with helping to improve Runway’s standing in the press, Emily (Emily Blunt) heads her own company, Dior, a major advertiser with Runway and who may figure in its future. It all leads to a frantic scramble for corporate survival amid wheeling and dealing. Can Runway survive and stay relevant in an ever shifting environment?
The gang returns in fine form with a familiar dynamic led by Streep’s imposing, yet at times vulnerable Miranda, and Hathaway displays a more mature, experienced Andy. Lady Gaga makes a brief but memorable appearance, and a couple supporting players return, while others are noticeably absent (Simon Baker).
Naturally,
this visual palette is impressive with colorful locations from New York to Europe
amid fashion events showcasing gorgeous, haute couture accompanied by a
contemporary soundtrack led (again) by Madonna’s Vogue. The film works within
its genre as a comedy drama buoyed by its cast, but its plot and pacing come
up a bit short. The results are not spectacular but diverting enough as an
entertaining, mainstream film. This follow
up (which may yield a third film) should satisfy those with reasonable
expectations; just don’t expect too much.
****
of ***** stars (for hardcore fans)
