Devil Wears Prada 2 Review: What to Expect

The movie 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' evokes nostalgia with the welcome return of familiar faces after 20 years and its dazzling fashion, but it's criticized for not recapturing the depth of growth seen in the original. The film depicts the reunion of Andy (Anne Hathaway), who returns to the fashion magazine 'Runway' as it faces a crisis, and Miranda (Meryl Streep), who doesn't remember her.

The movie reintroduces beloved characters such as Andy and Miranda, as well as Nigel (Stanley Tucci) and Emily (Emily Blunt). Miranda still spews venomous remarks, and Andy struggles between her beliefs and reality. Miranda's attempts to adapt to the times, such as personally hanging up coats due to employee complaints or facing restrictions in meetings, provide unexpected laughs and are depicted as the most realistic changes. The film also retains its signature glamour, luxurious brand outfits, and stylish styling.

However, there are criticisms that the story lacks depth. While the original film showcased a coming-of-age story through the evolving relationship between Andy and Miranda, the sequel introduces grand events to bring Miranda and Andy back together, but the resolution is clumsy and lacks plausibility. Some reviews suggest that Andy's beliefs sometimes come across as arrogant, leaving viewers feeling fatigued rather than empathetic.

Furthermore, the racial discrimination issues that have been controversial since before its release leave an unsettling feeling. The newly introduced Asian character, 'Jin Chao,' has been criticized for evoking derogatory expressions towards Asians. The character's emphasis on academic background and qualifications, perpetuating the stereotypical 'Asian nerd' image, and the setting of her using a Samsung Galaxy phone, are criticized for repeating old prejudices.

In conclusion, 'The Devil Wears Prada 2' is evaluated as lacking depth in its story, despite the charm of its familiar characters and unchanging fashion. While the original film resonated through its narrative of relationships and growth, the sequel leaves a sense of disappointment due to its frequent reliance on nostalgia.