Anna Wintour, the long-standing figurehead of Vogue, has finally shared her perspective on the iconic film, ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’ During a recent episode of ‘The Run-Through with Vogue’ podcast, Wintour addressed the film’s impact, its comedic elements, and its reflection on the fashion industry. With the movie having been loosely inspired by Lauren Weisberger’s experiences as Wintour’s assistant, the public has long awaited her response.
This article delves into Wintour’s candid thoughts, exploring her initial reaction to the film, her eventual embrace of it, and her views on Meryl Streep’s portrayal of the formidable Miranda Priestly. Understanding Wintour’s perspective offers valuable insight into the intersection of fashion, media, and popular culture.
Key points covered include Wintour’s experience at the premiere, her feelings about the fashion industry’s concerns, her assessment of the film’s humor, and her ultimate conclusion on whether ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ provided a fair depiction. Join us as we unpack the layers of this intriguing narrative.
Wearing Prada to the Premiere
Wintour recounted her experience attending the premiere of ‘The Devil Wears Prada’, noting the irony of wearing Prada to an event where she was uncertain of the film’s content. This anecdote highlights the complex relationship between Wintour and the fashion world, as well as her willingness to engage with the narrative surrounding the film.
“Well, I went to the premiere wearing Prada,” Wintour stated, underscoring the lack of foreknowledge regarding the film’s portrayal. This initial experience set the stage for her evolving views on the movie and its impact.
The fashion industry’s apprehension was palpable, with many expressing concern over a potentially unflattering representation. This collective anxiety speaks to Wintour’s influence and the industry’s sensitivity to media portrayals of its key figures.
A Caricature or Fair Shot?
Podcast host David Remnick questioned Wintour on whether she felt ‘hurt’ by the film’s release and how she transitioned to embracing it. Wintour acknowledged the concerns, but praised Meryl Streep’s acting and the overall humor of the film. She admitted that the movie was a caricature but found it enjoyable and funny. Ultimately, she concluded it was a fair shot.
“And I think that the fashion industry [was] very sweetly concerned for me about the film that it was gonna paint me in some kind of difficult light,” she noted, reflecting on the initial reactions.
“Yes. A caricature. Yeah. But first of all, it was Meryl Streep [playing the lead, Miranda Priestly, editor-in-chief of the fictional fashion magazine Runway], which — fantastic,” Wintour explained.
Humor and Wit in the Portrayal
One of the critical elements that shaped Wintour’s perspective was the film’s humor. She noted that the movie possessed a significant amount of wit, which made it entertaining. The comedic aspects softened any potential criticism and allowed her to appreciate the film on a lighter note.
“I think, listen, it had a lot of humor to it. It had a lot of wit,” Wintour commented, emphasizing the importance of these elements in her overall assessment.
The ability to laugh at oneself is a sign of strength, and Wintour’s appreciation for the film’s humor demonstrates her self-assuredness and confidence in her position within the fashion world.
Meryl Streep’s Performance
Wintour lauded Meryl Streep’s performance as Miranda Priestly, recognizing her talent and contribution to the film’s success. Streep’s portrayal, while exaggerated, captured the essence of a powerful and demanding editor, adding layers of complexity to the character.
“It had Meryl Streep… It was Stanley Tucci [who played Nigel]. I mean, they were all amazing,” she stated, acknowledging the strength of the cast.
Streep’s acting prowess brought depth to the role, making Miranda Priestly an unforgettable character in cinematic history. Her performance undoubtedly influenced Wintour’s perception of the film.
The ‘Glacial Pace’ Quip
Remnick jokingly referenced the iconic line from the movie about assistants moving at a ‘glacial pace,’ prompting Wintour to respond with a touch of humor. She defended her Vogue assistants, asserting that they are far from slow.
“Nobody at Vogue moves at a glacial pace, least of all my assistants,” Wintour quipped in response. This lighthearted exchange showcased her ability to engage with the film’s memorable moments.
Her quick-witted reply served as a playful rebuttal, reinforcing the idea that while the film may be a caricature, it doesn’t entirely reflect reality.
Wintour’s Evolving Role at Vogue
The podcast also touched on Wintour’s recent transition within Vogue and Condé Nast. While she stepped down as editor-in-chief of Vogue, a position she held since 1988, she continues to serve as the company’s global chief content officer and global editorial director at Vogue.
Last week, the company announced that Chloe Malle, the former editor of Vogue.com, would become the head of editorial content, replacing Wintour. This transition marks a new chapter in Vogue’s history.
These changes reflect the evolving media landscape and Wintour’s adaptability as she continues to shape the future of fashion and content creation.
Final Thoughts
Anna Wintour’s reflections on ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ provide a unique perspective on a film that has significantly impacted popular culture. Her ability to appreciate the humor and acknowledge the talent involved demonstrates her self-awareness and confidence. Despite initial concerns, Wintour ultimately views the film as a fair, albeit exaggerated, portrayal.
Key takeaways include Wintour’s initial surprise at the film’s content, her recognition of Meryl Streep’s exceptional performance, and her appreciation for the film’s wit. These elements contributed to her overall positive assessment.
As Wintour continues to evolve within the fashion industry, her willingness to engage with and comment on ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ underscores her enduring influence and relevance. Her insights offer valuable lessons on navigating media portrayals and maintaining a sense of humor in a high-stakes environment.
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