The statement "When we made it I was naive. I know now how rare it is to find situations where the stars align," attributed to screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna, perfectly encapsulates the magic – and perhaps the slight bewilderment – surrounding the creation of *The Devil Wears Prada*. While Simon Baker wasn't actually cast in the film, the question of "Simon Baker in *The Devil Wears Prada*?" prompts a fascinating fictional exploration of what might have been, examining the casting choices, the film's success, and its lasting impact. This fictional piece will delve into the potential impact of such a casting choice, weaving it into the fabric of the actual film's production and reception.
The real-life casting process was a remarkable feat in itself. Director David Frankel, embarking on his second theatrical feature after a lengthy hiatus, and producer Wendy Finerman, having read Lauren Weisberger's novel in its proposal form, assembled a dream team. Their vision, brought to life by cinematographer Florian Ballhaus, resulted in a film that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. Meryl Streep's iconic portrayal of Miranda Priestly, Anne Hathaway's endearingly awkward Andy Sachs, and the supporting cast, each contributed to the film's success. But let's imagine, for the sake of this exploration, that Simon Baker had been cast in a significant role. Which role would he have suited best, and how would that have altered the film's dynamic?
The most obvious candidates for a Simon Baker role are those played by Stanley Tucci (Nigel), Adrian Grenier (Nate Cooper), and even potentially a fictionalized, expanded role for the relatively minor character of James Holt (Andy's initial love interest). Let's examine each possibility:
1. Simon Baker as Nigel Kipling: Stanley Tucci's portrayal of Nigel is a masterclass in understated wit and sharp observation. He perfectly balances loyalty to Miranda with a dry humor that often undercuts her pronouncements. Could Simon Baker have achieved the same effect? Baker possesses a similar charm and intelligence, but his screen presence is arguably less sharply defined than Tucci's. While he could have delivered the lines with aplomb, he might have lacked the same level of subtly barbed commentary that made Tucci's Nigel so memorable. This casting choice would have resulted in a slightly different tone, perhaps one leaning more towards romantic comedy than the original's blend of comedy and social commentary.
2. Simon Baker as Nate Cooper: Adrian Grenier's Nate is the charming, slightly oblivious photographer who represents Andy's escape from the high-pressure world of Runway. Baker's natural charisma and easygoing demeanor would have fitted this role perfectly. He could have portrayed Nate's kind nature and artistic sensibilities with genuine warmth, perhaps even adding a subtle layer of complexity to the character. This casting wouldn't have drastically altered the film's narrative but could have subtly shifted the focus of Andy's romantic arc, potentially highlighting a more mature and grounded relationship. The chemistry between Baker and Hathaway is a compelling thought experiment in itself. The possibility of a more intense, less predictable dynamic between Andy and Nate is intriguing.
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