The much-awaited sequel to ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ is all set to hit the theaters on Friday, May 1, 2026. Even before the film’s premiere, reviews from critics have started pouring in, giving mixed opinions about the return of Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt. As of Wednesday, The Devil Wears Prada 2 holds a 74 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Most critics believe that the film stays true in terms of ‘nostalgia’ and ‘style’, but in terms of story, it seems to be a shadow of the original film.
Critics’ Opinion: The beauty of the clothes or the lack of story?
David Rooney (The Hollywood Reporter): According to Rooney, the film feels more like a showcase of ‘high fashion’ than an office drama. He praised the chemistry between the lead actors, but concluded that the film was “less a workplace comedy than a wardrobe showcase.” He also predicted its huge success at the box office.
Chantal Boziwick (9 Honey): Boziwik criticized the film’s plot, writing, “It feels like the film was kept under wraps for some reason – because it has no solid plot.”
David Durr (Rolling Stone): Dhar described it as a stylish “horror film” for journalists. He believes that behind the glamour, the story highlights the changing media landscape and the harsh reality of the industry (the decline of talent and hard work).
A flash of old characters and new changes
Brian Truitt (USA Today) argues that the sequel relies heavily on the structure of the original film. However, she finds a new strength in the changing relationship between Andy and Emily. Among the supporting cast, he described Justin Theroux’s “weird AI-loving tech-bro” as the most unique and fun character.
Peter Bradshaw (The Guardian) described the film as “inspired entertainment”. She specifically mentions Andy’s ‘knitwear’ cameo, which Miranda mocked in the first film.
The magic of Miranda Priestly continues
Beth Webb (Empire) and Justin Chang (The New Yorker) deeply praised Meryl Streep’s performance. Chang writes that the film is presented with the right balance of despair and hope. At the same time, Webb described the return of Stanley Tucci (Nigel) as an emotional anchor for the film, who wins over the audience with his pocket-class and sympathy.
Beth Webb, Empire said “Miranda’s power and influence remain today – even though this time he has no opponent against whom he can use his full force.”
Cast and production team
The film reunites original director David Frankel and writer Elaine Brosh McKenna. Apart from the old stars, the audience will also get to see some new faces this time.
Kenneth Branagh
Simone Ashley
Justin Theroux
Lucy Liu
To the fans’ delight, besides Stanley Tucci from the first film, Tracy Thomas and Tibor Feldman will also be seen on screen.
Conclusion: If you’re into funky clothes, Meryl Streep dominance, and nostalgia, this movie is in for a treat. However, if you are expecting a completely new story, the repetitive plot might leave you a bit disappointed. “that’s all!”