Melania Trump Documentary Opens Amid Financial Scrutiny and Director's Return

The documentary film titled "Melania," which chronicles the initial twenty days preceding Donald Trump's potential second inauguration, has debuted in U.S. cinemas, distributed by Amazon MGM Studios. This cinematic project marks the directorial return of Brett Ratner, his first feature film since multiple allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced in 2017, allegations which he has consistently denied.

Amazon MGM Studios reportedly secured the distribution rights for a substantial $40 million and committed an additional $35 million toward an extensive promotional campaign spanning 27 international territories. Melania Trump holds an executive producer credit, a role that granted her complete editorial oversight from the initial concept through to the final advertising materials. The 104-minute feature began filming in December 2024, following the U.S. presidential election, and frames itself as an intimate look into her life during that critical transition period.

Prior to the official nationwide release scheduled for January 30, 2026, advance screenings took place, including a private showing at the White House for family and industry figures. The official premiere event was held at the venue now designated as the Trump-Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. This location has been subject to recent cultural debate following the board's December 2025 vote to add the Trump name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, despite statutory authority resting with Congress.

Ratner's return to directing after his professional absence following the #MeToo movement in 2017 is viewed by some critics as a significant development regarding accountability in Hollywood. The film's commercial performance is now under scrutiny, serving as a barometer for Ratner's professional rehabilitation and the current theatrical viability of the documentary genre. Initial financial forecasts have been modest, with one projection suggesting a U.S. and Canada opening weekend gross of approximately $5 million across 1,400 or 1,500 theaters, a figure that contrasts with the reported $75 million total investment from Amazon MGM Studios.

The production credits list Muse Films, New Element Media, and RatPac Entertainment, with Fernando Sulichin serving as a producer alongside Ratner and Trump. The narrative focuses on Mrs. Trump's orchestration of inauguration plans and navigation of the White House transition, promising exclusive footage of private conversations and critical meetings.