Analysis of the Themes in The Devil Wears Prada 2
Introduction
The sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, directed by David Frankel and written by Aline Brosh McKenna, premiered globally on May 1. The film has achieved significant commercial success and received positive reviews from critics.
Main Body
The story focuses on Andy Sachs returning to Runway magazine, where she begins working again with the editor Miranda Priestly. A major theme in the sequel is the loss of Priestly's power, as she must now follow the orders of advertisers and tech billionaire Benji Barnes. The character of Barnes is clearly based on Jeff Bezos, reflecting his public image and philanthropic work. This plot point emphasizes a larger shift in society, where cultural influence is now bought with money rather than earned through artistic talent, especially with the threat of artificial intelligence in creative industries. Furthermore, the film examines how people use connections to powerful figures to improve their own social status. This is seen in the relationship between Barnes and Emily, which mirrors real-life events involving Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez. This trend of billionaires influencing the fashion world is also seen in other popular shows like Succession and The Morning Show. Consequently, the film critiques how the 'oligarch class' now controls industries that were once led by creative experts. Finally, critics have discussed the film's character dynamics, particularly the introduction of Peter, Andy's supportive partner. Some argue that Peter is a traditional romantic character, which is less progressive than the first movie. Despite this, the film has been praised by famous directors like Christopher Nolan and has performed very well financially, earning over $200 million in its opening weekend.
Conclusion
The Devil Wears Prada 2 has become a commercial hit while offering an interesting look at how technology and extreme wealth affect the world of art.
Learning
⚡️ The 'B2 Power Move': Moving from Simple to Complex Ideas
At an A2 level, you describe things simply: "The movie is about a rich man." To reach B2, you need to describe relationships between ideas. Look at this sentence from the text:
"This plot point emphasizes a larger shift in society, where cultural influence is now bought with money rather than earned through artistic talent."
The Magic Word: "Rather than" Instead of using "but" or "and," B2 speakers use "rather than" to show a preference or a contrast between two choices. It makes your English sound more academic and precise.
How to use it:
- A2 Style: I don't want tea. I want coffee.
- B2 Style: I would like coffee rather than tea.
- A2 Style: He is not a boss. He is a leader.
- B2 Style: He is a leader rather than a boss.
🛠 Vocabulary Upgrade: The "Professional Shift"
Stop using basic words like "good" or "bad." The article uses specific verbs that move you toward a professional B2 level. Try swapping your common verbs for these:
| A2 Verb (Simple) | B2 Verb (Professional) | Example from Text |
|---|---|---|
| Shows | Emphasizes | "...emphasizes a larger shift in society" |
| Talks about | Examines | "...the film examines how people use connections" |
| Says | Argues | "Some argue that Peter is a traditional character" |
💡 Coach's Tip: When you write your next review or opinion, don't say "The author says..." Try "The author argues..." This tiny change tells an examiner that you are thinking at a B2 level.