Meet the Cast of The Apprentice

Released on September 10, 1971
Comedy Romance

In the vibrant city of Montréal, Jean-Pierre Fortier finds himself at a crossroads in his life. Played by Steve Fiset, Jean-Pierre is an apprentice technician on the set of a TV commercial when he unexpectedly gets fired. This setback leaves him in dire straits: he is broke, struggling to pay his rent, and has a flimsy resume that does little to help his job prospects. Despite being engaged to his fiancée, Michelle, his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Elizabeth Hawkins, a captivating free-spirited model portrayed by Susan Sarandon. Elizabeth's visit to Jean-Pierre's flat, motivated by her witnessing his dismissal, brings an alluring mix of innocence and sexual liberation that leaves him questioning his current life choices.

As Jean-Pierre attempts to impress Elizabeth, he makes a desperate decision to borrow money from his outlaw friend, Dock. With funds in hand, he indulges in a shopping spree to upgrade his wardrobe, hoping to win Elizabeth's affection. Their relationship quickly evolves from flirtation to intimacy, deepening his infatuation and pulling him further away from Michelle, who remains steadfast in her feelings for him. Drawn to the thrill of his connection with Elizabeth, Jean-Pierre finds himself swept into a whirlwind romance filled with passion and adventure. However, this exhilarating new chapter comes at a cost, as he is lured into a dubious heist with Dock in a bid to fund a romantic getaway to Acapulco, further complicating his already tangled life.

As Jean-Pierre navigates the challenges of his heart and the repercussions of his choices, he is faced with a difficult decision. With Michelle reaching out to him and trying to reignite the bond they once shared, he must evaluate what truly matters to him. The contrasts between stability and impulsiveness, commitment and freedom, weigh heavily on his conscience. The question looms: Can Jean-Pierre find a way to reconcile his feelings for both women and reclaim his life, or will he lose everything in his pursuit of a fleeting fantasy? "The Apprentice" poses a timeless exploration of love, ambition, and the search for identity amidst the tumult of youthful desires.

Full Cast of The Apprentice

Susan Sarandon

as Elizabeth Hawkins

In "The Apprentice" (2016), Susan Sarandon delivers a compelling performance as Elizabeth Hawkins, a former lawyer and the mother of the film's protagonist, Ben. Sarandon brings a layered complexity to the role, portraying Elizabeth as a woman whose sharp intellect and legal acumen are tempered by the personal tragedies she has endured, including the loss of her husband and the estrangement from her son. Her performance is nuanced, as she navigates the delicate balance of wanting to protect her family while grappling with her own sense of guilt and responsibility. Sarandon's Elizabeth is both fragile and formidable, offering a poignant portrayal of a mother's love and the strength derived from overcoming adversity. Her scenes with co-star Ben Barnes, who plays her son, are particularly charged with an emotional depth that anchors the film's narrative, showcasing Sarandon's ability to convey a rich internal life with subtlety and grace.

Steve Fiset

as Jean-Pierre Fortier

Gerard Parkes delivered a nuanced and memorable performance as the enigmatic Professor in the 1971 film "The Apprentice." His portrayal exuded a sense of wisdom and moral complexity, which was essential for the character who serves as a mentor to the young protagonist, played by James MacArthur. Parkes brought a gravitas to the role, imbuing the Professor with an air of dignity and a touch of melancholy, which made his character's struggle with the ethical dilemmas presented in the film both believable and compelling. His interactions with the other characters were highlighted by a warm and paternal demeanor, while his subtle expressiveness conveyed the deeper layers of the Professor's inner conflicts. Parkes's performance was a standout element of the film, providing a stable anchor in the midst of the unfolding drama and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.