The Devil Wears Prada 2 Review: This Winning Sequel Delivers More Than Just Sleek Looks

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Even if you missed The Devil Wears Prada in theaters back in 2006, it was impossible to avoid hearing about Meryl Streep’s performance as Miranda Priestly. She played the demanding editor of Runway magazine, and her character was a challenging mentor, a tough opponent, and a fascinating contrast to Anne Hathaway’s Andy Sachs. It was a memorable performance from a legendary actress – the kind that stays with you long after the credits roll. Because of that, fans were eagerly anticipating a sequel when it was finally announced, after waiting for two decades.

Director David Frankel and writer Aline Brosh McKenna brought back the original cast for the new movie, and they’ve successfully captured the feel of the first film. A lot has changed in the fashion world over the past twenty years, which allows characters like Andy and Miranda to grow and change in believable ways. Although the sequel isn’t quite as polished or emotionally impactful as the original, it’s still a worthwhile follow-up thanks to its grand scope, beautiful imagery, and undeniable appeal.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 Gets The Gang Back Together The Right Way

Twenty years after the first movie, The Devil Wears Prada 2 brings Andy and Miranda back together, both facing challenges in their professional lives. They find themselves working together again at Runway magazine, where Andy’s dedication to journalism clashes with Miranda’s demanding expectations and the power struggles of the companies trying to control the magazine. The film immediately addresses the current state of the media with a directness that Miranda herself would likely admire.

What really struck me about the movie is how the villains aren’t just ‘bad people,’ but these out-of-touch tech guys and rich kids who don’t understand what the magazine is about. They’re so caught up in changing things just to change them that they miss the real beauty Miranda is trying to highlight. It’s smart because it makes the tension between Andy and Miranda feel fresh – it’s not just a repeat of the first movie. It actually makes you see Miranda as a complex person, even though Andy still looks up to her sometimes. And honestly, Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway are incredible. They bring so much nuance and a little bit of vulnerability to their roles, it really feels like seeing old friends again.

Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci deliver fantastic performances as Andy’s former competitor Emily and Miranda’s loyal assistant Nigel. The film truly shines when it lets them reveal their vulnerabilities and aspirations. Tucci, especially, has several subtle yet powerful scenes that demonstrate why he’s been a consistently strong performer in dramatic films for decades. Director Frankel expertly balances the glamorous world of high fashion with intimate character development, creating a film that feels grand in scope but remains grounded in its characters. The screenplay by McKenna cleverly builds on the previous film without relying on it too heavily. While some nostalgic references feel repetitive, they generally don’t overshadow the film’s strengths.

The Devil Wears Prada 2’s Big Swings Make For An Ambitious (If Wobbly) Sequel

Following up the original The Devil Wears Prada was a tough act. The first film was a cultural hit, largely thanks to its well-developed characters who felt like more than just stereotypes. While those characters return in the sequel, the story gets bogged down by trying to cover too much. The Devil Wears Prada 2 juggles several different plotlines – Andy’s commitment to journalism, Miranda’s professional challenges, Nigel’s role as a supporting figure, and Emily’s desire for more – along with the expected fashion shows, celebrity appearances, and critiques of both big business and the tech industry.

The movie doesn’t really falter with its various plot points, but it often feels a bit too cluttered. The supporting characters – Andy’s friends, her boyfriend Peter, and Miranda’s husband Stuart – are all well-acted, but they don’t get enough screen time to feel fully developed. Some storylines, like the one involving Lucy Liu’s character, vanish for long stretches and then suddenly reappear at the end. Similarly, the comedic moments sometimes feel separate from the main story, like added extras rather than essential parts. There are strong scenes, but they’re quickly lost in the film’s overall complexity.

This film offers insightful commentary on today’s culture, how media stays relevant in the digital world, and the value of art. While it tries to cover a lot, it mostly succeeds, though it’s not quite as polished as the original The Devil Wears Prada. The first film had a simpler story and clearer emotional journey for its characters. However, this sequel is definitely not a failure – it’s still an enjoyable and thought-provoking movie.

I was genuinely blown away by the talent in this film! The performances, the writing, even the visuals – everything just felt so joyful and it was contagious. I found myself constantly chuckling at Miranda’s witty remarks, and honestly, Andy’s moments of triumph really got to me. As someone who loved the original, I was so happy to see that same spark still there. And even if you’re not into fashion, the story and characters are compelling enough to keep you hooked. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is a really well-made sequel – it honors what we loved about the first film while still moving forward. It might not quite reach the same heights, but there’s so much to enjoy, especially when it focuses on the characters and their journeys.

The Devil Wears Prada 2 releases in theaters nationwide on Friday, May 1.

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2026-04-29 19:13