With just days until The Devil Wears Prada 2 hits cinemas, Channel 4 has added the original film to its free streaming service. The 2006 comedy drama, starring Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, is now available for viewers to watch without a subscription. The sequel, arriving in UK cinemas on May 1, has already garnered early critical praise.
Original Film Returns to Screens
After years of fan demand for a follow-up, a sequel was announced two years ago. While plot details remain scarce, the new film sees Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway) return to her former workplace, Runway magazine, still run by editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep). They reunite with Emily Charlton (Emily Blunt), now a high-powered executive for a luxury group whose advertising dollars Miranda desperately needs.
For those needing a refresher or first-time viewers, Channel 4 added the film this week. The original follows aspiring journalist Andy, who lands a competitive role at one of fashion's most respected publications. Initially unimpressed by the industry's glamour, she faces disdain from colleagues but gradually proves herself through demanding tasks. However, her commitment comes at the cost of her personal life, forcing her to decide if the career is worth it.
Critical and Commercial Success
Upon release two decades ago, The Devil Wears Prada earned $326 million worldwide and received two Oscar nominations, five Bafta nods, and three Golden Globe nominations. Critics praised it highly: The Hollywood Reporter called it a 'dishy comedy,' Rolling Stone highlighted Meryl Streep's comedy skills, and Spectrum deemed it 'one of the year's classiest, wittiest, and most refreshing films.'
Fan reviews on Rotten Tomatoes echo this enthusiasm. Tyler called it 'amazing, hands down, one of my favourite fashion films.' Douglas described it as 'simply marvellous,' while Zohaib wrote, 'I was so skeptical... it was one of the best films I have ever watched.'
Sequel Anticipation Builds
The film, based on Lauren Weisberger's 2003 novel, spent six months on the New York Times Best Seller List. The character of Miranda is widely believed to represent former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who stepped down last year. Early reviews for The Devil Wears Prada 2 are positive: The Hollywood Reporter's Alex Weprin called it a 'biting media parody,' Variety's Jazz Tangcay said it is 'phenomenal,' and The Movie Podcast's Daniel Baptista described it as 'a FUN and FIERCE sequel.'
Viewers can stream the original on Channel 4 before heading to cinemas. As the film's famous line goes, don't move at a glacial pace—that's all.
