Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada
This week’s Movie Monologue Monday is going to look at Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada.
In this scene Streep puts a new assistant, who clearly does not understand the fashion industry, in her place. The clip gives a decent amount of context so even if you’re not familiar with the film, you’ll know all you need to know by the time the monologue rolls around.
This is a fine example to study if you’re called upon to play a ultra high status character. Streep demonstrates how great strength and power can be portrayed through silence. She reminds me in this scene of a shark quietly swimming as it patiently waits for the next prey to appear.
She barely rises above a whisper as she completely eviscerates Anne Hathaway. Indeed, she tears strips off of everyone around her even before the monologue comes.
The lessons I take from this piece:
- Strength doesn’t equal volume.
- True strength comes from not having to yell.
- A brutal smackdown can be delivered without violence.
Completely unrelated side note: Stanley Tucci is one of my favourite actors but holy cow is his entrance awkward. I swear you can see him looking for his mark as he walks in.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LVptO7o4L8
