Twenty years after the original film, Miranda Priestly and the staff of Runway return in The Devil Wears Prada 2. The sequel reunites Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), Nigel Kipling (Stanley Tucci), and Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt) as they face a fashion industry now shaped by cancel culture, tech bros, and social media.
While the story includes a trip to Italy—specifically Milan and Lake Como—the vast majority of the action is centered in New York City. The production was shot on location, contributing to a version of the city that serves as an essential accessory to the film’s high-fashion aesthetic.
Capturing the New York Experience
The film integrates several authentic urban details to ground its glamorous premise. For instance, Andy Sachs’ living situation reflects the realities of Manhattan real estate, featuring bathroom pipes that only function when they are forcefully banged.
The narrative likewise highlights the contrast between luxury and the city’s public infrastructure. In one scene, Miranda Priestly strips Andy of her private-car privileges as a professional punishment, forcing her to take the 7 train from Hudson Yards.
Cultural and Social Touchstones
The sequel weaves in contemporary New York cultural references. Andy is depicted as a superfan of the Mary Todd Lincoln comedy Oh, Mary! by Cole Escola, evidenced by a Playbill kept in her home.
The film also features Lady Gaga, born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, who appears with significant attitude in a confrontation with Miranda Priestly.
Professional stresses are also highlighted, such as when Andy and her colleagues from the newsroom gather at Bubby’s to drink beers and discuss the current state of the media.
The High-Fashion Landscape
The film showcases the peak of New York society at the Metropolitan Museum of Art during the Met Gala. The event features a cerulean blue carpet where Miranda and Nigel make their appearance.
Other relatable moments include Andy “cosplaying” as a wealthy Long Islander by wearing rented designer clothes while traveling to the Hamptons via a sweaty coach bus on Lexington Avenue.
Future Implications
As the film explores a landscape dominated by new media and social trends, it may provide a commentary on the evolution of power within the fashion industry. Future discussions around the film could focus on how these “relatable” New York moments balance the aspirational nature of the Runway brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the action of the movie take place?
Most of the action takes place in New York City, though the characters do take a trip to Milan and Lake Como in Italy.
Which original cast members return for the sequel?
Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci all return to reprise their roles.
What new influences are affecting the fashion world in the film?
The fashion world in the sequel is dominated by social media, tech bros, and cancel culture.
Do you think the contrast between high fashion and everyday city struggles makes the characters more relatable?
