‘New Level, New Devil’: The Devil Wears Prada 2 Movie Review

It’s been 20 years since we learned what can happen when one pursues a job “A million girls would kill for.” The battle between identity and integrity is evident in this film too, but the storyline seemed to drag a little compared to its predecessor. Nevertheless, the themes present in this film will allow people to reflect on the choices they have made when put in uncomfortable situations or anytime that are experiencing conflict.

In the first film, Andy, played by Anne Hathaway, struggled with not losing herself as she navigates fitting in at Runway magazine as Miranda Priestly’s assistant. In the end, Andy takes a stand against the work abuse and leaves her job to become a journalist. It essentially proved that her character and work ethic is what got her in the door, not necessarily due to her time at Runway, though that did add some credible weight.

Relevance to Economic Times

In this film, we see that Andy continued as a journalist and became a successful one. However, early into the film, Andy and her colleagues are layed off. She calls out publication companies laying off employees due to technology and AI (very relevant to include). This actually help to set the theme of this film in motion and add to the plot twist.

An article or something related to Runway magazine runs and now they need damage control. Irv, the head of Runway, summons Andy to clean up their image. However, Miranda, played by Meryl Streep, is not on board with this plan (how shocking). In fact, she even appears to have amnesia when it comes to who Andy is. Well, it has been 20 years so maybe we can cut her some slack.

But let’s explore that a little further. We continue to see that Miranda’s identity, heart and soul is truly wrapped up in Runway and anything that threatens its image. The top threat this time- the boss’ son inherits the company after his father is killed (and the son does not have a fashion sense).

Not only is Miranda’s promotion at stake, but her creative vision becomes roadblocked. Anne Hathaway notes that job security is the theme for everyone in this film (New York Times Interview). I found this interesting, because I actually saw a David Letterman interview with Anna Wintour (Vogue Editor-in-Chief who inspired the film), who talked about economic hardships in the magazine industry (and this was from back in 2009).

The Devil Make Not Be Who You Think

As the title and phrase goes, there is always a new devil per each level you ascend to. In the first movie, Miranda is basically the devil. I mean she practically plays the game: pits Emily and Andy against each other, betrays Nigel, played by Stanley Tucci, and simply enters every space as a dictator or heartless snob.

The game of this film reveals an important lesson: Be careful of who you do wrong. I’ll leave it there so I don’t spoil the plot for you in case you have not seen it. But who do you think will win Miranda’s favor this time- Andy or Emily? Or faithful Nigel? And who will be the devil this time?

Nigel is basically the ears and eyes for Miranda and Runway, and appears to be looking out for her in this film too. Andy is trying to impress Miranda this time by landing an interview with Sasha Barnes, a high profile individual that no one seems to be able to reach. Emily is trying to build her own empire, but comes to the table to help Andy and Miranda. However, she is still her sarcastic/snarky self. At the same time, Andy is offered the opportunity to secretly publish a bio depicting Miranda, meaning major bucks. Wouldn’t she be within her means after Miranda keeps making it her business to put Andy in her place?

Moral Convictions Take Center Stage

Let’s talk about tables. Negotiations are being made throughout this movie, including with Sarah Barnes, her ex husband, Andy and Emily. There was a scene in the movie highlighting The Last Supper that I really found fascinating. To set the scene for you, fashion week is in Italy compared to Paris like in the first film. On a wall in the Refectory of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Miranda casually mentions to Andy that the painting demontrates chaos. In her words, it is similar to what human are capable of- human deception.

You may recall that in this painting, Jesus relays that one of his disciples will betray him. This really makes you remember that Miranda has this omnipresent behavior and may pull the wool over your eyes. Always be on your guard because somehow she knows.

But then it also made me think about another powerful scene in the film. While in Italy, Andy or Miranda is outside in a city mall setting and we get to see a Prada store on the left and a Louis V store on the right. The camera is circling around the subject and you can tell we are at the peak of the central conflict. In that moment, I thought, why exactly is Prada the brand associated with this movie or the devil?

And then, I learned something (don’t judge me if you already knew). Prada was founded in Milan, Italy. According to IFCHICH, the luxury brand is known for its “fearless vision and fearless spirit of experimentation.” The article also talks about how Prada is alluring.

Cinematic Appeal and Character Evolution

While there are some new faces, and some old (like Andy’s friend the artist), there is more of a celebrity appeal in this one (popular models and a popular singer). It was nice to hear the same music from the first movie reocurring in this one like “Vogue” by Madonna. Doing so always brings back a nostalgia feeling for franchise movies.

I appreciate the dynamics of this film. Miranda has a softer side (maybe due to the new man in her life), but still very dominant yet humble. Andy still walks with a certain confidence after taking her power back in the first film. Emily shows that even the snarkiness individual can have a heart, and sometimes just needs validation. And Nigel’s closing scene is what touched me the most (I’ll leave it there to not spoil anything). It made me think about how if God is calling us to be the light; be the light. Even if you are working with someone who will try to drag you down- they see it too.

Overall, the first one will always be a classic and iconic. This one solidifies things. In an interview by the New York Times, the cast describes the first one as a “princess story,” while the second one explores complications (life, business, competing in a man’s world, etc.). In fact, Anne Hathaway says it like this, “I don’t know if the film says anything…it just shows.” I definitely would like to see this movie again, but nothing compares to the first one.

Since its premiere on May 1, 2026, “The Devil Wears Prada 2” has grossed more than $660 million globally. Check your local theatre for watch times. Hopefully you will not have to go up the stairs to see it….Get it?

To learn more about the movie, visit https://www.20thcenturystudios.com/movies/the-devil-wears-prada-2