THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA Clip - "Andy Gets A Makeover" (2006)

Summary

In this tense excerpt from *The Devil Wears Prada*, Andy struggles with the demands of her high-pressure job at a prestigious fashion magazine. She feels unappreciated by her boss, Miranda Priestly, who is cold and exacting, while Andy’s colleague, Nigel, provides harsh but insightful advice. Nigel reveals the magnitude of the magazine's influence in the fashion world and how many people would die for her job, yet Andy remains frustrated by her lack of acknowledgment. The scene highlights the clash between ambition and personal sacrifice, as well as the demanding nature of the fashion industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 The protagonist feels frustrated because their hard work goes unrecognized, but mistakes are harshly criticized.
• 😀 The protagonist struggles with the demanding and thankless nature of their job, which lacks appreciation.
• 😀 The protagonist feels torn between quitting the job and staying, despite the harsh conditions.
• 😀 A mentor figure tells the protagonist to stop whining and realize that the job is prestigious, and the people who work there are legends.
• 😀 The mentor stresses that the magazine is not just a job but a prestigious institution, impacting culture and fashion history.
• 😀 The protagonist is reminded that they are working in a place that many people would die to be in, yet they are not fully appreciating the opportunity.
• 😀 The mentor points out the protagonist's failure to recognize the value of their work environment and how it shapes the industry.
• 😀 There's a sense of disillusionment as the protagonist is told to be grateful for the opportunity, rather than expecting praise.
• 😀 The protagonist is criticized for not fully embracing the prestige of the magazine and the importance of their role in it.
• 😀 The conversation reveals a disconnect between the protagonist's perspective and the expectations of their high-powered job in the fashion world.

Q & A

Why is Andy frustrated with Miranda in this scene?

Andy is frustrated because no matter how hard she works, Miranda neither acknowledges her efforts nor shows gratitude. However, when Andy makes mistakes, Miranda becomes very critical and harsh.

What does Andy want from Miranda, according to this conversation?

Andy wants recognition and appreciation for her hard work. She feels unappreciated, hoping for at least some acknowledgment, like a 'thank you' or a sign that her efforts are valued.

How does Andy's colleague, Andy's friend, react to her frustration?

Andy’s friend tells her to stop whining and emphasizes that Miranda is simply doing her job. He points out that the magazine they work for is an institution and that Andy should recognize the opportunity she has, rather than complaining.

What perspective does Andy's friend give her on the job?

He reminds her that the company she works for, Runway, is legendary in the fashion industry, having published the works of iconic designers. He tells her she is part of something greater than just a magazine, even though she doesn't seem to appreciate it.

What is the significance of the 'shining beacon of hope' metaphor?

The 'shining beacon of hope' metaphor refers to the impact and prestige of the magazine Runway. It suggests that for many people, working there is a dream come true, a goal they would sacrifice a lot to achieve. The metaphor emphasizes the gravity of the opportunity Andy has but fails to fully recognize.

How does Andy's friend view the challenges Andy faces at work?

He dismisses Andy’s struggles, seeing them as typical for someone working in a high-pressure, prestigious environment like Runway. He believes that Miranda’s harsh treatment is part of the job, not something Andy should take personally.

Why does Andy feel inadequate in her work environment?

Andy feels inadequate because she is constantly under pressure to meet high expectations, with no feedback or positive reinforcement from Miranda. Her hard work goes unnoticed, while any mistakes are harshly criticized.

What is the role of the fashion items mentioned (Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, etc.) in the scene?

The mention of high-end fashion items like Dolce & Gabbana, Jimmy Choo, and Chanel reflects the luxury and exclusivity of the fashion industry that Runway operates in. It also highlights the superficial and materialistic nature of the environment Andy is trying to navigate.

What does the conversation reveal about Andy's understanding of the fashion world?

The conversation shows that Andy still doesn't fully grasp the significance of working in the fashion industry. She doesn't see the value in the magazine, nor does she appreciate the immense cultural and professional opportunity that her job represents.

What does Andy's friend's experience in fashion reveal about the expectations at Runway?

Andy’s friend shares his personal story of growing up in Rhode Island, where he had to hide his true passion for fashion. His story illustrates the high level of dedication and personal sacrifice that many people are willing to make to be part of the fashion industry, emphasizing how lucky Andy is to be in that position.