Two films, seemingly disparate at first glance, offer fascinating parallel narratives exploring the dark side of ambition and the intoxicating allure of power. Disney's *Cruella* and David Frankel's *The Devil Wears Prada* both feature compelling female protagonists navigating treacherous corporate landscapes, albeit in vastly different industries. While one involves the cutthroat world of high fashion, the other delves into the equally ruthless world of design and, ultimately, villainy. Both films, however, present us with anti-heroines whose journeys, though morally questionable, are strangely captivating and even, at times, relatable. This essay will explore the thematic similarities and differences between *Cruella* and *The Devil Wears Prada*, analyzing their respective portrayals of ambition, the cost of success, and the seductive nature of power.
Emma Stone's Cruella: A Relatable Villain in the Making
In the film, Emma Stone brings to life a tortured and oddly relatable Cruella – at least in the beginning – to show us just how she ended up as the dog-skinning villain we know from *101 Dalmatians*. The film deftly unpacks the character's origins, revealing a talented young designer named Estella, burdened by a troubled past and a burning desire for recognition. Her rebellious spirit and creative genius are constantly stifled by a rigid and unforgiving system, forcing her down a path of increasingly destructive behavior. The film doesn't shy away from showcasing Estella's flaws; her impulsiveness, her penchant for revenge, and her manipulative tendencies are all laid bare. Yet, the audience remains sympathetic, understanding the pressures that molded her into the infamous Cruella de Vil. This empathetic portrayal allows the audience to engage with the character's transformation, making her descent into villainy more compelling and less straightforwardly evil. This is markedly different from the one-dimensional portrayal of the character in the original animated film.
Andy Sachs and the Devil's Workshop:
Similarly, *The Devil Wears Prada* presents us with Andy Sachs, a bright and ambitious journalist who lands a coveted job at Runway magazine, working for the notoriously demanding Miranda Priestly. Meryl Streep's iconic performance as Miranda embodies the ultimate power player, a woman who commands respect (and fear) through her sharp wit, ruthless efficiency, and unwavering control. Andy, initially disdainful of the superficial world of high fashion, gradually succumbs to the allure of power and success. She sacrifices her personal life, her relationships, and even her own moral compass in pursuit of professional advancement. While not as overtly villainous as Cruella, Miranda Priestly operates within a system that prioritizes ruthlessness and ambition above all else. Andy's journey mirrors Estella's in its exploration of the compromises one makes in the pursuit of professional success. Both women find themselves caught in a system that rewards ruthlessness and punishes vulnerability.
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