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Released on January 30, 2026, Melania is a high-gloss, $75 million documentary that provides an unprecedented—though carefully curated—look into the life of the First Lady during the high-stakes transition period leading up to the 2025 inauguration. Directed by Brett Ratner in his return to the spotlight, the film was acquired by Amazon MGM Studios for a staggering $40 million.
It meticulously tracks Melania Trump as she navigates the logistical complexities of returning to the White House, from overseeing the interior design of the private quarters to coordinating her high-fashion inaugural wardrobe. Beyond the aesthetics, the film attempts to humanize its subject through quieter, reflective moments, such as her mourning the loss of her mother and her private visits to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, all while she prepares to relaunch her "Be Best" initiative on a global stage.
However, the film’s release has been defined as much by its behind-the-scenes friction as its on-screen content. Critics have largely polarized into two camps: supporters view it as a sophisticated portrait of a modern political icon, while detractors dismiss it as an "autohagiography" due to Melania’s role as executive producer and her strict editorial control. The production was reportedly marred by internal tension, with some crew members seeking to distance themselves from the project.
Despite the critical divide and the controversy surrounding its director, the film's premiere at the Trump Kennedy Center served as a massive cultural flashpoint. By blending personal reflection with the grand spectacle of American political power, Melania stands as a controversial but undeniably significant cinematic document of the current administration’s return to Washington.
