A Masterclass from Streep (in an otherwise average film)

Rating: 5/10 (1 July 2006)

Meryl Streep gives a masterly performance as the boss-from-hell, Miranda Priestly. Her cool and calm delivery is far more terrifying than taking the more obvious route of barking orders at her underlings. Meryl Streep injects a large does of humanity into a character that has the potential to be more of a cartoon.
Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt also do an excellent job with their supporting roles as put-upon minions. Their catty asides are delicious.
Anne Hathaway, unfortunately, and the whole subplot about her losing her own identity, are just dull in comparison. The audience just doesn't really care about her.
The film could be used as a starting point for a feminist rant. However, it does at least acknowledge that a man acting the way Miranda does would be admired as an excellent leader - whereas a woman is just seen as a complete bitch.
The film is distinctly average, but worth watching for Streep alone. An Oscar nod wouldn't be a surprise.