Those types do build a wall between themselves and others true. But if there is ever a time when you can break that and engage with the real person underneath I think 1-1 are it.
Those people would try not to show real weakness / vulnerability before groups of people - but just one? Maybe.
I’ve managed to build many a close relationship with people that others considered “the devil wears prada” types this way.
Sure it does, baring sociopaths they are still human with the usual sense of empathy. And even sociopaths have a sense of self-interest. You can trigger that sense of empathy and there's many books on it (starting with the classic How to Win Friends & Influence People). And most everyone likes someone who makes their life easier rather than harder. Hell, bosses in my experience promote sycophants (not saying you have to go that far) a lot more often than leaders do so it's likely to work even better on them.
Those people would try not to show real weakness / vulnerability before groups of people - but just one? Maybe.
I’ve managed to build many a close relationship with people that others considered “the devil wears prada” types this way.
So strongly agree with the parent comment!