Emily Blunt, recognized as an ELLE Women in Hollywood honoree, recently reflected on her transformative experience while playing Emily Charlton in the beloved 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada. As she prepares to reprise this iconic role in the upcoming sequel, slated for release next year, Blunt expressed how profoundly the original film has impacted her career trajectory.
In her interview, Blunt described the emotional weight of returning to a character that was pivotal to her success. “It’s terribly moving,” she said, attributing her career’s launch to director David Frankel, who had cast her when she was relatively unknown. “I’d been working, but no one knew who I was, and he was so sure that he wanted me in the movie, from a taped reading. That meant a huge amount to me.”
The character of Emily was a significant departure for Blunt, allowing her to break free from the typecasting often associated with British period dramas. “It left the door open for people to see me as more than a British period drama girl,” she shared. “It paved the way for character roles, which is all I wanted. I didn’t want to be an ingenue. I was curious to explore an entire bag of tricks.”
While specifics about the sequel remain under wraps, Blunt articulated her understanding of why the original film continues to resonate nearly two decades later. She described it as a “nostalgia bank for people,” noting that many have revisited the film countless times through various life experiences—providing comfort and escapism.
Blunt praised the film’s intricate blend of comedy and deeper themes. “What starts off as a comedy—filled with shock factors—then turns into something much more poignant and deep,” she said. She acknowledged the skill with which Frankel and screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna crafted the script, balancing the often superficial world of fashion with profound character development.
In her insights, Blunt highlighted the film’s empowering message for women. She pointed out the double standards faced by the character Miranda Priestly, suggesting that if her character were male, she might have been recognized for her ambition rather than facing criticism. Furthermore, the film’s quotable lines have cemented its place in popular culture, making it a “delicious experience” for viewers.
As anticipation grows for the sequel, fans can look forward to a renewed exploration of Blunt’s character and the themes that made the original film a cherished classic.