The film has made yet another grand entry into the world of pop culture almost 20 years since its first part became a sensation around the globe. The highly anticipated film “The Devil Wears Prada 2” was released on May 1. The film, which is one of the biggest box-office hits for this year, depicts an enthralling picture of how difficult the working environment at the popular Runway magazine could be. According to reports, it managed to surpass the 300 million-dollar mark only during its first week at the movies.
As excitement around the sequel continues to grow, fans are also buzzing about the impressive paychecks earned by the film’s returning stars. According to a report by Variety, the lead cast members received massive salary increases compared to what they were paid for the 2006 original.
Meryl Streep, who reprises her iconic role as the intimidating fashion editor Miranda Priestly, reportedly earned $12.5 million for the sequel. Industry insiders believe the Oscar-winning actress could easily have demanded an even bigger amount given the franchise’s popularity and her legendary status in Hollywood. However, sources claim she agreed to the figure while also negotiating a “favoured nations” agreement with her co-stars.
That same deal reportedly ensured equal salaries for Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt, who returned as Andrea “Andy” Sachs and Emily Charlton. Both actresses are also said to have earned $12.5 million each for stepping back into their beloved roles.
The financial rewards did not stop there. Reports suggest the three stars also secured lucrative box office bonus agreements tied to the movie’s performance in theatres. Such profit-sharing arrangements are common for major studio films, but insiders say the sequel’s strong opening has already triggered additional payouts. If the film continues performing at its current pace, estimates suggest each of the leading actresses could ultimately take home close to $20 million.
Directed once again by David Frankel, the sequel reunites much of the original cast, including Stanley Tucci. At the same time, the film introduces several fresh faces to the Runway universe. New additions include Kenneth Branagh, Lucy Liu, Justin Theroux and Simone Ashley.
The sequel also delivers a dose of fashion-world glamour through special appearances by legendary designer Donatella Versace and pop superstar Lady Gaga. Gaga additionally contributed an original song titled Runway to the film’s soundtrack.
This time around, the story follows Miranda Priestly as she struggles to navigate the collapse of traditional print media in a rapidly changing digital world. Her former assistant Emily Charlton has now become a powerful executive in her own right, setting up a fierce rivalry between the two women. Meanwhile, Andy Sachs finds herself pulled back into Miranda’s demanding world while trying to protect the future and legacy of Runway magazine.
