“Melania” Documentary Offers Rare Behind-the-Scenes Look at the First Lady
- Elisa Ballard
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The documentary Melania premiered in theaters on January 30, 2026, with a moderately wide release across approximately 1,800 screens nationwide. Directed by Brett Ratner, the film provides an intimate portrait of the 20-day period leading up to President Donald J. Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, focusing on Melania Trump’s active role in the preparations alongside her staff.
The project originated with Melania Trump herself in December 2024, shortly after the election. Her senior adviser, Marc Beckman, pitched the concept to major studios, triggering a bidding war among Amazon, Disney, Netflix, and Paramount. Amazon MGM Studios ultimately secured the rights with a reported $40 million deal—the highest ever paid for a documentary—which included theatrical distribution and options for a follow-up docuseries.
The film opens with a striking aerial view of Mar-a-Lago, the Trumps’ Palm Beach residence, before following Melania as she boards the Trump Boeing 757 for a trip to Trump Tower in Manhattan to handle inauguration-related details. Viewers are immersed in a world of extraordinary privilege—private jets, historic estates, and high-profile events—while also witnessing the intense demands placed on the First Lady.
At 55, Melania maintains a poised and elegant presence throughout a grueling schedule that often involves long days and late nights in high heels. In voice-over narration, she shares personal reflections on her values, her deep love for the United States, her gratitude to those who have defended its freedoms, and her commitment to family and public service. Her signature initiatives, “Be Best” (launched during the first Trump administration) and “Fostering the Future” (introduced in 2022 and later expanded), are highlighted as central to her platform for improving children’s lives.
The documentary balances ceremonial grandeur with lighter, more human moments—humorous exchanges, tender interactions between Melania and President Trump, and the remarkable logistics of the White House transition, which occurs in roughly five hours on Inauguration Day.
Melania’s fashion choices receive significant attention, underscoring her background as a former international model. She collaborates closely with designer Hervé Pierre, who has created many of her custom gowns for years, translating her creative vision into elegant, deliberate looks.
As executive producer, Melania maintained full editorial control and was deeply involved in the trailer, music selection, and marketing. Additional executive producers include Fernando Sulichin, with production handled by Muse Films, New Element Media, and RatPac Entertainment, and distribution by Amazon MGM Studios.
Overall, the film offers a polished, affectionate glimpse into Melania Trump’s life and priorities, likely resonating strongly with her supporters while satisfying public curiosity about one of the most private First Ladies in modern history.
