Devil Wears Prada 2 torched in first reviews as critics take aim at Meryl Streep sequel for ‘thin’ plot and lack of ‘playful spark’

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The sequel to The Devil Wears Prada isn’t getting positive buzz so far. Initial reactions indicate the movie doesn’t quite live up to expectations.

Although audiences are excited to see Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci back together, reviewers haven’t reacted as positively to the new movie compared to the original from 2006.

Many critics have criticized the film’s story as weak and unoriginal, saying it doesn’t measure up to the previous installment. Despite this, it’s predicted to be a huge commercial success, potentially earning $80 million in the US and $180 million worldwide during its opening weekend.

While some, like IndieWire’s Kate Erbland who called her ‘viciously funny,’ enjoyed Meryl Streep’s performance, most reviews weren’t as positive.

Erbland noted the storyline felt weak and lacked the energy and excitement of the first film.

In a harsh review, Moira Macdonald of The Seattle Times criticized the film, saying it missed the fun energy of the original and felt like uninspired fan-made content, with the actors appearing to simply go through the motions.

In a review for Variety, Guy Lodge described the film as noticeably weaker than its predecessor, lacking depth in its story, emotional impact, and visual style. While the actors gave committed performances, they weren’t particularly groundbreaking.

He went on to say the sequel ‘functions less as a follow-up than as a kind of tribute act.’

Okay, so everyone’s being so harsh about a potential Prada sequel, but honestly? Deadline’s Damon Wise just straight-up said it doesn’t even have a plot! Can you believe it?! It’s devastating! But… he did say Stanley Tucci is amazing, like he’s absolutely killing it and bringing all the magic he had in the first movie. Seriously, give the man all the awards, because if anything saves this, it’s going to be him. I’m just living for any little crumb of good news, okay?

Wise also criticized the film’s minor romantic storylines, specifically those featuring Kenneth Branagh and Patrick Brammall as potential partners for Miranda and Andy.

In a review for The Hollywood Reporter, David Rooney noted the sequel works best when it focuses on lighthearted, enjoyable references to the past.

As a big fan, I always hope a sequel earns its place, you know? William Bibbiani at TheWrap put it perfectly – a new installment should really justify why it exists. Sadly, in my opinion, this one just doesn’t quite measure up.

According to one writer, ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2‘ lacks a central idea, making it feel disjointed and forgettable.

The film doesn’t really explain why it exists, only pointing out problems with the current state of journalism and suggesting that relying on billionaires won’t fix things – and might even make them worse. Even if that’s all true, it doesn’t make for a compelling movie.

It’s good to have everyone together, and they’re still fun to be around, but maybe they should have chosen a different activity.

While many initial reviews were harsh, some critics actually welcomed the sequel’s polished comeback, eager to see what happened next.

In a review for USA Today, Brian Truitt noted the strong connection between Anne Hathaway and Stanley Tucci, and especially praised the engaging back-and-forth between Emily Blunt’s character and Hathaway’s, calling it a particularly effective and charming element of the film.

In a review for The New Yorker, Justin Chang praised the film as being just as charming and visually appealing as the first, describing it as a luxurious Manhattan fairy tale packed with high-end fashion that practically guarantees a satisfying experience.

He added that, in some respects, the sequel even proves ‘savvier than its predecessor.’

Even film critic Rooney from The Hollywood Reporter had positive things to say, noting that if you’re hoping for stylish visuals, sharp wit, and another brilliant performance from Meryl Streep as the intimidating Miranda Priestly, the sequel to The Devil Wears Prada likely won’t let you down.

Even though critics haven’t loved it, The Devil Wears Prada 2 is expected to be a big hit with audiences and could earn a lot of money at the box office.

Variety reports the upcoming sequel is expected to open with $75 to $80 million domestically across about 4,100 theaters. Some estimates even go as high as $90 to $100 million, fueled by the popularity of the first film.

The movie is predicted to earn another $100 million internationally, bringing its total opening weekend earnings worldwide to between $175 million and $190 million.

Okay, so I’ve been digging, and apparently 20th Century Studios really believed in this sequel! They spent around $100 million just making the thing – that’s before even thinking about how much they’re spending to get the word out everywhere! It’s insane, honestly, but it shows how much faith they have in it, and frankly, I’m here for it!

This is a big increase from the original 2006 movie, which only cost $40 million to make – a relatively small amount by comparison.

The first film launched with a $27.5 million domestic opening and ultimately grossed $125 million in North America and $326 million globally. However, the new sequel is predicted to earn more right from the start, despite mixed reviews from critics.

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2026-04-30 02:05