FILM REVIEW: THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 (12A) ESP RATING: 3/5

A polished return that never quite recaptures the bite of the 20-year-old original.

I wanted to love this film. I really did. As a huge fan of The Devil Wears Prada, there’s a certain expectation that comes with revisiting this world: the sharp dialogue, the iconic characters, the effortless balance of satire and heart. And while I didn’t love the sequel, I did find myself enjoying it enough . . . once I adjusted my expectations.

The film reunites the original film’s foursome of Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt) and Nigel Kipling (Stanley Tucci). This time, the story leans into the shifting landscape of journalism and fashion media, where print – and in particular editor-in-chief Miranda’s Runway fashion magazine – struggles to survive in a world dominated by digital platforms, click-driven content, and the growing influence of AI.

Written once again by Aline Brosh McKenna, the film has a clear thematic focus – and that’s something I always appreciate. It explores the erosion of traditional journalism, where thoughtful, well-crafted pieces are increasingly replaced by surface-level, attention-orientated articles. There’s a genuine attempt to say something relevant here, and at times, it really works.

Viewed on its own terms, there’s a solid film underneath it all. The challenge is that, as a sequel, comparison is inevitable – and that’s where it starts to fall short.

The returning characters don’t quite feel like the ones we remember. Andy lacks the clear sense of direction that once defined her, while Miranda – still composed and commanding – no longer carries the same sharp, intimidating edge. You could argue her cutting remarks don’t land the same way by 2026 standards, and that’s fair. But that bite was a huge part of what made her so iconic, and its absence is definitely felt.

The overall dialogue of everyone involved doesn’t help matters. Where the original thrived on wit and precision, this often feels overly explanatory, as if it’s guiding the audience rather than trusting them. It gives the film a slightly unnatural rhythm, dulling moments that should feel sharper.

That said, the film is not without merit. The themes are timely, and when leaning into its core ideas, it becomes genuinely engaging. You just have to meet it halfway.

Ultimately, this works best when you stop expecting it to recreate the magic of the original and start viewing it on its own terms. Do that, and there’s enough here to appreciate. Or if you’re simply looking to spend time with familiar faces, this will absolutely scratch that devilish itch.

But if you’re hoping for the same spark, sharpness, and cultural punch as the first film – you may come away wanting more.

As it stands this has just about enough substance to make it down the catwalk – without falling over.

ESP Rating: 3/5

Mike Clarke

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9HXmMnUEdE

Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough & Odeon Luxe Peterborough, Out Now

Cast: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Justin Theroux, Lucy Liu, BJ Novak, Simone Ashley, Lady Gaga & Kenneth Branagh

Running Time: 1 Hr 59 Mins

Director: David Frankel

Film Review Venue: Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough

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