268 - The Devil Wears Prada & the Cerulean Blue

In episode 268 of Drink the Movies, hosts Brian and Michaela dive into the legacy of The Devil Wears Prada and its 2026 sequel, exploring the cultural impact, character dynamics, and evolving themes of power, ambition, and workplace toxicity in high fashion. They reflect on the original 2006 film’s iconic status, Meryl Streep’s legendary performance as the formidable Miranda Priestly, and Anne Hathaway’s transformation from a disinterested assistant to a driven editor. The discussion highlights the film’s sharp commentary on class, gender, and the seductive nature of success, while also acknowledging its controversial portrayal of a toxic boss. The sequel is examined for its emotional payoff, particularly in addressing the long-overdue recognition of Nigel (Stanley Tucci), and its exploration of Miranda’s rare moments of vulnerability and self-awareness. The hosts debate whether the film glorifies or critiques its premise, with Michaela expressing discomfort with the normalization of cruelty in the workplace, while Brian appreciates the narrative’s complexity and thematic depth. The episode concludes with a creative cocktail named the 'Cerulean Blue,' inspired by Miranda’s famous lecture on color, blending floral and blue elements to honor the film’s visual and cultural legacy.