The Apprentice

The film opens with Richard Nixon’s famous 'I am not a crook' speech, showcasing his insistence on remaining innocent amid the Watergate scandal. This sets the tone for a story about ambition, success, and moral ambiguity in American politics.

Young Donald Trump is dining at an upscale restaurant when he spots notorious lawyer Roy Cohn. Cohn, known for his ruthless prosecution of the Rosenbergs, becomes impressed by Trump after learning he is the son of a wealthy real estate magnate.

During a dinner with his family, including his father Fred Trump and brother Freddie, tensions rise as Fred faces investigation for racial discrimination. Freddie's struggles with addiction are evident, revealing a complex family dynamic that impacts Trump deeply.

Roy Cohn takes on Fred's discrimination case after Trump requests his help. Cohn imparts his ruthless rules for success to Trump, which involve intimidation and manipulation to win battles against prosecuting attorneys.

Thanks to Cohn’s aggressive tactics, the lawsuit against Fred Trump is dropped, despite the overwhelming evidence. This victory marks a turning point for Donald, who begins to embrace Cohn's cutthroat philosophy.

While out for dinner, Trump meets Czech model Ivana Zelnickova and impresses her after helping her and her friends gain entrance to a club. This interaction sparks the beginning of their romantic entanglement.

In an effort to elevate his profile, Trump devises a plan to transform the Commodore Hotel into a Hyatt. This ambition creates friction between him and his father, highlighting his desire to carve out his own identity.

As Trump and Ivana grow closer, he surprises her with a marriage proposal during a trip to Aspen. Despite initial hesitations regarding a prenup suggested by Cohn, Trump chooses love over legal protection, leading to their wedding.

With the arrival of their first child, Donald Jr., cracks begin to form in Trump and Ivana’s marriage. Ivana starts pursuing her career as an interior designer while Trump becomes increasingly consumed by his success.

Trump's estranged brother Freddie visits him, showing the debilitating effects of alcoholism. Trump’s rejection highlights the growing distance he feels from his family amidst his escalating ambitions.

Trump learns of Freddie's death, which profoundly affects him. Following the funeral, he is shown grieving in bed next to Ivana, revealing the vulnerable side of a man obsessed with success.

Trump confides in Cohn about his disinterest in Ivana, citing her physical changes from cosmetic surgery. This moment reflects his increasing detachment and moral decline as he begins to spiral away from his family.

Facing issues with his hotel project and mounting debts, Trump contemplates his political aspirations. This pivotal moment initiates his public persona while he grapples with personal demons and dissatisfaction at home.

Trump learns Cohn is terminally ill with AIDS but chooses to publicly misrepresent it for appearances. This confrontation with mortality reveals the complex dynamics of their relationship characterized by loyalty and betrayal.

After Cohn's passing, Trump seeks to establish his own legacy, enlisting a ghostwriter for his book, 'The Art of the Deal'. He reiterates Cohn's success philosophies, signaling his intent to carry on Cohn's ruthless approach in his pursuits.