As filming for “The Devil Wears Prada 2” unfolded in the bustling heart of Manhattan, fans eagerly gathered to catch a glimpse of Meryl Streep and the iconic cast. Despite the sweltering July heat, these dedicated followers braved the elements, united by their love for the film and its stars. With expectations high and anticipation mounting, “The Devil Wears Prada 2” set drew attention not only for its cinematic promise but also for the spectacle surrounding its production.
A Quest for a Glimpse
Two tourists approached the Dior store in midtown Manhattan, hoping to indulge in some luxury shopping during their vacation. However, they were stopped by a clipboard-wielding official who informed them, “Sorry, the store is closed until next week.” Confused, they hadn’t noticed the filming underway, complete with bustling crew members and eager paparazzi.
The scene was set for “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” with filming taking place inside the Dior store—a welcome retreat from the oppressive heat for stars like Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci. However, to maintain secrecy, large sheets of brown paper obscured the windows, much to the dismay of approximately 60 fans lining the sidewalk, hoping for a fleeting moment of Streep stepping out onto the street.
Fan Dedication and Insider Tips
Among the fans, Diana Nassar, a Manhattan resident and Prime Video employee, seized the opportunity to join the excitement. After missing the shoot outside her office earlier that week, she discovered the set’s location through social media, where a crew member not only guided her but also shared the entire shooting schedule, offering her a water bottle to combat the heat.
“I just want to see something in action,” Nassar exclaimed. The stealthy nature of filming, with Disney’s 20th Century keeping locations under wraps, only added to the allure. However, production notices marked “cerulean” offered clues, nodding to a memorable moment in the original film.
A Global Attraction
The midtown spectacle attracted fans from afar. Alison Stewart, visiting from Scotland with her sister, Sarah McManus, embarked on a film-focused tour of the U.S. Their New York layover unexpectedly coincided with the sequel’s shoot, creating an unforgettable experience. “We saw Meryl Streep come out of a car,” Stewart recounted, excitement in her voice.
Determined to make the most of their time, the sisters arrived at 11 a.m., prepared to stay until their 6:30 p.m. flight. The prolonged filming process fascinated McManus, who remarked on the time required for a single scene.
The Allure of On-Set Fashion
Amal Matmati, a New York-based software engineer, also endured the heat, eager to witness the film’s glamorous ensemble. “I want to see all the fashion, the looks, and the costumes,” she said, unfazed by spoilers from paparazzi captures of Hathaway, Streep, and Blunt’s onscreen attire.
Matmati noted that seeing these moments sans context heightened her excitement for “The Devil Wears Prada 2.” It’s a shared sentiment among fans scattered along the sidewalk, capturing the devotion and determination that accompany the prospect of witnessing cinematic history in the making. Even faced with extreme temperatures, the loyal enthusiasm rivals the fictional Miranda Priestly’s legendary presence, defiantly whispering, “Don’t be ridiculous.”
