Have you ever heard the phrase “Le diable s’habille en Prada”? It’s a popular French saying, a twist on the original proverb “Le diable est dans les détails” (the devil is in the details), that translates to “the devil wears Prada” in English. This seemingly simple phrase, however, encapsulates the complex themes explored in the 2006 film adaptation of Lauren Weisberger’s novel, *The Devil Wears Prada*, a film inextricably linked to its star, Anne Hathaway. But where did this saying originate, and how does it perfectly capture the cutthroat world of high fashion depicted in the movie, a world often associated with the formidable figure of Anna Wintour? This article will delve into the origins of the phrase, the film's portrayal of the fashion industry, the iconic performance of Anne Hathaway, the budgetary aspects of the production, and the enduring legacy of the movie.
The Devil Wears Prada: More Than Just a Fashion Statement
The phrase "the devil wears Prada" itself is a clever appropriation of the original French proverb. While the original focuses on the importance of attention to detail, the adapted version adds a layer of irony and satire. The Prada brand, synonymous with luxury and high fashion, becomes a metaphor for the deceptively glamorous veneer of the industry. The devil, representing ambition, ruthlessness, and the pursuit of power, is not some monstrous figure lurking in the shadows, but rather someone inhabiting the seemingly impeccable world of high fashion. This perfectly sets the stage for the narrative of *The Devil Wears Prada*, where the seemingly superficial world of fashion reveals itself to be a battleground of ambition, power struggles, and the sacrifices made in the relentless pursuit of success.
The film follows Andy Sachs (Hathaway), a bright but somewhat naive aspiring journalist who lands a job as an assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), the formidable editor-in-chief of *Runway*, a fictional magazine based on Vogue. Andy’s journey is one of transformation, not just in her wardrobe, but also in her understanding of the fashion industry and her own ambitions. She witnesses the cutthroat competition, the relentless pressure, and the often-dehumanizing aspects of the pursuit of perfection. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the industry's darker side, highlighting the exploitation of interns, the relentless demands on employees, and the superficiality that can consume those caught up in the whirlwind of fashion.
Anna Wintour: The Real-Life Inspiration
The character of Miranda Priestly is widely considered to be based on Anna Wintour, the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue. Wintour's reputation for demanding perfection, her sharp wit, and her intimidating presence have cemented her status as a powerful figure in the fashion world. While the film doesn't explicitly name Wintour, the parallels are undeniable. Miranda's icy demeanor, her impeccable style, her unwavering attention to detail, and her ruthless efficiency are all hallmarks of Wintour's persona. The film cleverly uses this resemblance to create a sense of authenticity, drawing on the public perception of Wintour to build a compelling and believable antagonist. The film's success is partially due to its ability to tap into the public fascination with the enigmatic figure of Anna Wintour, using her as a template for a fictional character that embodies both the allure and the harsh realities of the fashion industry. This connection to reality adds a layer of intrigue and realism to the film's fictional narrative, making the world of *Runway* feel both fantastical and strangely familiar.
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