Director Ali Abbasi attends a press conference for ‘The Apprentice’, which is in competition at the 77th Cannes Film Festival | Photo Credit: Stephen Mahe

Former US President Donald Trump has initiated legal action against the filmmakers of ‘Dangal’. LearnerA controversial biographical film which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. Trump’s legal team, led by Dhillon Law Group, issued a cease and desist letter to director Ali Abbasi and screenwriter Gabriel Sherman on May 22, seeking to halt the film’s distribution and marketing efforts in the United States.

The letter criticizes the film as a “web of lies that repeatedly defames President Trump” and claims it is “direct foreign interference in U.S. elections”, citing its funding from Canada and Ireland. Trump’s lawyers say the film is not a factual biography but a defamatory misrepresentation and have given the filmmakers until May 27 to meet their demands, threatening further legal action if they do not.

Creators of the Learner has defended his work, calling it “a fair and balanced portrayal of the former president” and urging viewers to watch the film and form their own opinions. The film stars actors Sebastian Stan, Maria Bakalova, and Jeremy Strong and depicts Trump’s rise in the 1970s and 1980s, including controversial moments in his personal life and business dealings.

Despite the legal threats, the filmmakers appear unperturbed. At a May 21 press conference, Abbasi downplayed Trump’s litigious reputation, suggesting that Trump often threatens lawsuits but has a low success rate in court. The film has been well received by critics, and received an 11-minute standing ovation at its Cannes premiere.

However, the legal threat may have impacted potential US distribution deals. Industry insiders suggest buyers may be hesitant due to the increased likelihood of litigation, especially in an election year. The situation remains fluid, with industry observers closely tracking whether the film will secure a domestic release or find a place on streaming platforms.