15 fun facts about “The Devil Wears Prada” to notice next time you watch it
If there’s one film that has defined glamour, drama and the ins-and-outs o the fashion world, that film is “The Devil Wears Prada”.
Released on 2006 and starred by Meryl Steep, Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt, the picture is an adaptation of the book of the same title, wrote by Lauren Weisberger, and inspired by the author’s real experiences during her time working at Vogue’s offices. This modern classic has captivated fans all around the world, and, behind the scenes, there are a lot of fun facts and tidbits as amazing as the rollercoaster ride that encapsules its plot.
Here’s what you need to know about “The Devil Wears Prada” before you watch it again, and again, and again…
Meryl Streep almost turned down the iconic role of Miranda Priestly
Meryl Streep is the heart of the film, but the actress initially turned down the role because of the salary. When the studio doubled her offer, she accepted, and the rest is history.
Plus, Meryl’s iconic performance was a reinterpretation of the character: in the book, Miranda is loud and ruthless. Streep opted for a calmer, more cutting approach, drawing inspiration from Clint Eastwood’s menacing silence.
Anne Hathaway wasn’t the first choice for Andy
Anne Hathaway had to fight hard to get the role of Andy Sachs. The producers initially wanted Rachel McAdams, star of The Notebook, but she turned it down several times. Hathaway even drew an “I ♥ Andy” in the sand in one of the producers’ gardens to show how much she wanted the role!
Emily Blunt improvised her character
Emily Blunt, who plays Emily Charlton, Miranda’s first assistant, made her character even more memorable by improvising several iconic lines. The famous line “I’m just one cold away from my ideal weight” came from an improvised conversation with the writers.
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Miranda’s iconic entrance was created at the last minute
Miranda Priestly’s first appearance, with a dramatic zoom shot as everyone frantically prepares for her arrival, was not in the original script. The directors decided to include it to immediately establish the character’s power and intimidating presence.
The film’s costumes cost over $1 million
The Devil Wears Prada is considered one of the most stylish films of all time, and for good reason. The budget for the costumes exceeded $1 million, with clothes and accessories from brands such as Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana and Valentino. Costume designer Patricia Field, famous for Sex and the City, was the one who brought the film’s fashions to life.
Meryl Streep wore comfortable shoes off-screen
Although Miranda Priestly exuded elegance in her Louboutin heels, Meryl Streep wore flip-flops between takes. After all, no one can survive a whole day in high heels, not even the Queen of Runway!
Stanley Tucci joined the cast at the last minute
Stanley Tucci, who plays the beloved Nigel, joined the cast just three days before filming began. Despite the short preparation time, he became one of the most beloved characters in the film with his dry humor and wise advice.
Miranda and Andy’s relationship was inspired by Casablanca
Director David Frankel revealed that Miranda and Andy’s arc was inspired by Rick and Ilsa, characters from Casablanca. It’s not a romance, but rather an intense and ambiguous relationship, full of unspoken mutual respect.
Miranda’s hair has symbolic meaning
The decision to give Miranda perfectly coiffed white hair was intentional. The producers wanted her to stand out from any other character and also represent power, sophistication and authority.
The “Blue Sweater Speech” is a masterpiece in screenwriting
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Miranda explains to Andy that her cerulean blue sweater was influenced by the fashion industry’s decisions. This monologue became a sensation because it perfectly encapsulates the film’s theme: the cultural influence of fashion.
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Gisele Bündchen made a point of not playing a model
Supermodel Gisele Bündchen appears in the film as Andy’s co-worker Serena. Interestingly, Gisele only accepted the role on the condition that she not play a model – she wanted to do something different from what she was used to.
The film was shot in real locations in New York and Paris
Some of the most glamorous locations in the film, such as the Smith & Wollensky restaurant and the streets of Paris, are real. This added an extra touch of authenticity to the Runway universe.
The cultural impact was huge
Since its premiere, The Devil Wears Prada has become a cultural reference. To this day, phrases like “That’s all” and “Florals for spring? Groundbreaking” are mentioned in memes and conversations. In addition, the film helped to demystify the fashion world, showing behind the scenes with a touch of humor and drama.
Miranda Priestly was inspired by Anna Wintour
Although Lauren Weisberger has never officially confirmed it, it is widely believed that Miranda was inspired by Anna Wintour, the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue. Interestingly, Wintour attended the premiere of the film, wearing Prada, of course.
Anne Hathaway keeps a souvenir from the film
Anne revealed that she kept the Chanel jacket worn by her character. After all, who wouldn’t want to take a little piece of The Devil Wears Prada wardrobe home with them?
The Devil Wears Prada remains one of the most beloved films for capturing the essence of fashion, hard work and human relationships. Revisiting it is always a pleasure, whether to laugh at Andy’s blunders, admire the looks or be inspired by Miranda Priestly’s absolute power. After all, as Miranda herself would say… “That’s all.”
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Where to watch “The Devil Wears Prada”
Currently, in addition to sporadic reruns, the film “The Devil Wears Prada” is available for United States viewers on Max and Apple TV. Follow this link to check availability in your own country…
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SPOILER ALERT: How The Devil Wears Prada ends
If you don’t remember, check out how the movie “The Devil Wears Prada” ends and what happens to Andy Sachs and Miranda Priestly…
The movie “The Devil Wears Prada” ends with the protagonist, Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), making an important decision about her life and career:
Andy leaves Miranda and her job at Runway:
After accompanying Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) to Paris Fashion Week, Andy realizes the negative impact of the job on her personal life and her values. She witnesses Miranda manipulating a situation to protect her position of power, even if it hurts people close to her. This moment makes Andy rethink whether she wants to follow in Miranda’s footsteps.
Spontaneous resignation
Andy throws her cell phone into a water fountain in Paris, symbolizing her break with the fashion world and her decision to leave her job.
Reconciliation and new perspective
Back in New York, Andy meets her ex-boyfriend Nate and looks for a job that aligns with her interests. She gets an interview with a newspaper and receives a good recommendation from Miranda, who, despite everything, recognizes Andy’s talent.
Conclusion about Miranda
The film suggests that Miranda respects Andy for her courage to follow a different path, even if she would never admit it openly. In the final scene, Miranda smiles discreetly as she watches Andy follow his own journey.
The ending reflects Andy’s growth as a person, as she discovers what really matters in her life and refuses to sacrifice her principles.
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