Amazon’s high-budget documentary on former First Lady Melania Trump has already made headlines before its official release date. The $75 million project, directed by Brett Ratner, was shown for the first time in a private event held at the White House on Saturday evening — an exclusive gathering that replaced the traditional premiere setting.
With the White House Family Theater demolished last October to make way for a new $400 million ballroom, the screening took place in a temporary venue inside the East Wing. Melania herself reportedly oversaw the creation of this ad-hoc theater, outfitted with advanced audiovisual systems under Ratner’s supervision.
The guest list was a mix of political figures, celebrities, and industry leaders. Attendees included President Donald Trump, their son Barron, Queen Rania of Jordan, Apple CEO Tim Cook, former boxing champion Mike Tyson, and motivational speaker Tony Robbins. The event also featured a full military band performing Melania’s Waltz, a custom score composed by Tony Neiman. Guests received commemorative popcorn boxes and framed ticket stubs as keepsakes of the night.
The documentary is set for its red-carpet debut at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, just one day before its nationwide release. However, forecasts for its box office performance remain grim. Entertainment insiders suggest opening weekend revenues could hover around $5 million, a disappointing figure compared to the film’s massive production and marketing spend — which includes $40 million for the film itself and an additional $35 million in promotional efforts by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Despite plans for satellite premieres in over 20 cities and distribution to approximately 1,400 theaters across the country, early reactions have been polarized. Viral clips have circulated showing audiences booing the trailer at pre-release screenings.
The film documents Melania’s life during the 20 days leading up to her husband’s second presidential inauguration last January. Ratner, whose past work includes Rush Hour and Hercules, reportedly spent months at the Trumps’ Mar-a-Lago estate during production. This marks his first directorial project since 2014, following a career hiatus linked to multiple misconduct allegations in 2017.
While the East Wing’s permanent theater will not be ready until 2029, this private screening offered a glimpse into the documentary’s tone and approach before general audiences weigh in. Whether Amazon’s ambitious investment will pay off remains to be seen — but for now, Melania Trump’s high-profile film debut has certainly captured public curiosity.
Also Read:
Inside “Melania”: An Exclusive Look at the Former First Lady’s Journey Back to the White House
Melania Trump’s Life Before the White House Revealed in Upcoming Global Documentary
