Review: The Devil Wears Prada 2 - The ‘Scorsese for Women’ Returns to a Changing World

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Twenty years after The Devil Wears Prada redefined how we see the fashion industry, its long-awaited sequel arrives with a sharper, more contemporary lens. The original film offered audiences a rare glimpse into an almost mythical world—glossy, ruthless, and largely inaccessible. Loosely adapted from Lauren Weisberger’s novel, itself inspired by her time working under Vogue’s formidable Anna Wintour, it became an instant cultural touchstone.

This new instalment shifts its focus from the traditional gatekeepers of fashion to the modern power brokers shaping global influence. Rumours suggest the story draws inspiration from billionaire circles reminiscent of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez, adding a distinctly “ripped-from-the-headlines” energy. The dynamic between Emily, her partner, and Lucy Liu’s poised, enigmatic character introduces a fresh layer of intrigue that reflects today’s elite social ecosystems.

The Plot: Power in Transition

At its core, the film explores the fragility of legacy industries in a rapidly evolving digital world. Journalism—and fashion publishing in particular—is portrayed as being under existential threat. Even Miranda Priestly, once untouchable, finds her empire faltering as Runway struggles to remain relevant in an era dominated by algorithms and short-form content.

As Nigel wryly observes over lunch with Andy, fashion has been reduced to “bite-sized video content which people watch while peeing”—a line that perfectly captures the film’s commentary on cultural consumption.

Seeing Miranda stripped of her usual armour—flying coach, hanging her own coat—is both jarring and quietly brilliant. Meanwhile, Andy Sachs is no longer the wide-eyed assistant; she’s now an established journalist confronting layoffs and professional uncertainty. When their paths cross again, the stakes are no longer trivial. This is not about errands—it’s about survival, legacy, and a shared love for an industry that may be slipping away.

The Highs: Familiar Brilliance

Meryl Streep’s Command

Streep once again proves why she is in a league of her own. Miranda may be softer around the edges, but her precision, presence, and understated menace remain intact.

Andy and Miranda’s Evolution

Anne Hathaway delivers a grounded performance. While some may argue Andy hasn’t fully “grown,” her lingering deference to Miranda feels deeply authentic. Returning to someone who shaped you often pulls you back into old versions of yourself—and the film captures that beautifully.

Emily’s Transformation

Emily Blunt’s Emily is a standout. Confident, accomplished, and fully realised, she embodies the success that once seemed just out of reach. It’s a satisfying evolution.

Nigel’s Heart

Stanley Tucci brings warmth and emotional weight. Nigel remains the film’s moral compass, offering both wit and wisdom. His long-overdue recognition by Miranda is one of the film’s most touching moments.

The WardrobeVisually, the film is a feast. The styling is aspirational without feeling detached, and every look reinforces why this franchise continues to influence fashion culture so profoundly.

The Lows: Where It Falters

A Weaker Opening

The film struggles to match the iconic opening of its predecessor, lacking the same immediate pull and energy.

Surface-Level Personal Lives

Unlike the original, the sequel gives minimal insight into the characters’ lives beyond work. Supporting roles—played by Justin Theroux, BJ Novak, and Kenneth Branagh—feel underdeveloped and fleeting.

Underused Talent

Lucy Liu’s character shows promise but is ultimately underwritten, missing the sharp dialogue that defines the film’s strongest moments. Similarly, Lady Gaga’s cameo, while visually striking, feels musically underwhelming. The soundtrack overall lacks memorability.

The Verdict

When the original film was released, critics argued it tried to critique an industry while simultaneously indulging in it. This sequel walks the same line—and, much like its predecessor, that contradiction may be part of its charm.

With sharp dialogue, compelling performances, and undeniable rewatch value, the film succeeds as both entertainment and commentary. It may not delve deeply into life’s bigger questions, but it doesn’t need to. It knows exactly what it is.

In a cultural moment where traditional roles are being rebranded and repackaged across platforms like TikTok, this film offers a different narrative—one where ambition, power, and passion are not just accepted but celebrated.

The Devil Wears Prada remains, unmistakably, the “Scorsese for women.”