With just a few days to go until The Devil Wears Prada 2 hits cinemas, a streaming service is allowing users to watch the original for free.
After years of fans begging for a follow-up to the 2006 comedy drama starring Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, it was announced two years ago that a sequel was on its way.
Although specific plot details are as hard to come by as unpublished manuscript copies of a Harry Potter book (if you know, you know), the film does see Andy Sachs (Anne) return to her former workplace – Runway magazine, which is still run by editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly (played by Meryl).
The pair also reunite with another of Miranda’s former assistants – Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt), who is now a ‘high-powered executive for a luxury group with advertising dollars that Miranda desperately needs’.
Before racing to watch the new release, if you want a refresher on the first film – or haven’t tuned in before and still think florals for spring are groundbreaking – Channel 4 has you covered after it added the film this week.
For the uninitiated, the original follows aspiring journalist Andy who is a surprising hire for the competitive role of working in one of the fashion industry’s most respected publications.
Relatively unbothered by the prestige that comes with her new job, Andy faces more than a little disdain from her colleagues for her initial judgment of their passion for clothes.
However, while she starts to prove herself (which involves juggling a demanding schedule and at times completely outlandish tasks), her commitment to work starts to come at the expense of her personal life and she then must choose whether her newfound career is actually worth sticking out.
Upon its release two decades ago, The Devil Wears Prada was a hit with critics and viewers alike, earning $326million (£240million) worldwide during its box office run.
It was also nominated for two Oscars, five Baftas, and three Golden Globe Awards.
In its review The Hollywood Reporter wrote: ‘Clothes to die for and an outrageous fashion diva compete for attention in this dishy comedy.’
‘Everyone knows that Meryl Streep is the high priestess of drama, but she never gets enough credit for her comedy skills. That should change with The Devil Wears Prada,’ Rolling Stone shared.
‘Give this devil her due. One of this year’s classiest, wittiest, and most refreshing films,’ Spectrum added.
Ahead of the sequel’s release, many people also shared their thoughts on the first film on review sites.
‘This movie is amazing, hands down, one of my favourite fashion films!’ Tyler posted on Rotten Tomatoes.
‘This movie is simply marvellous. There are not enough words to describe the acting, the story, everything. One of my favourite movies of all time,’ Douglas shared.
‘I was so skeptical before watching the movie because I knew it was a cultural phenomenon…it was one of the best films I have ever watched ever. Overall, it ATE. I can’t believe I’ve gone so long without watching the movie. You bet I’ll be eagerly anticipating that sequel,’ Zohaib added.
The now cult classic film was based on Lauren Weisberger’s 2003 book of the same name, which spent six months on the New York Times Best Seller List.
Although it is semi-fictional, the character of Miranda was widely believed to represent former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who stepped down from the role last year.
The Devil Wears Prada 2 won’t be released in UK cinemas until May 1, but early reviews from critics have indicated fans won’t be disappointed.
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The Hollywood Reporter’s Alex Weprin said on X it was a ‘biting media parody wrapped up in high fashion’.
Variety writer Jazz Tangcay shared: ‘Gird your loins, the devil is back in all her glory! Yes, #thedevilwearsprada2 is phenomenal. It is the perfect sequel that exceeded all expectations.
Meanwhile, The Movie Podcast’s Daniel Baptista wrote: ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a FUN and FIERCE sequel that makes a statement. It feels familiar in the best way, timely in the right ways, and is well worth the wait.’
If you’re ready to gird your loins and dive back into The Devil Wears Prada before racing to the cinema later this week now is the time…but don’t move at a glacial pace doing so. That’s all.
The Devil Wears Prada is streaming on Channel 4.
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