A new documentary focused on Melania Trump, the incoming first lady, is in production, directed by Brett Ratner and set to be distributed through Amazon Prime Video. The company announced on Sunday that it has secured exclusive rights for both streaming and theatrical release of the film, planned for later this year.
Filming is currently in progress, with the production team promising viewers a “never-before-seen” look at Melania Trump, along with a narrative that is described as “truly unique.” This documentary comes on the heels of Melania’s self-titled memoir, which she published late last year, as her husband is due to assume office on January 20.
The connection between Amazon’s founder Jeff Bezos and Donald Trump has widened with the announcement of this film. Last December, Amazon revealed its plans to make a $1 million donation to the President-elect’s inauguration fund and also intended to stream the inauguration through its Prime Video service, representing another in-kind contribution valued at $1 million.
Despite a history of public disagreements, including Trump’s criticisms of Amazon’s business practices and his comments on The Washington Post’s political coverage—which is owned by Bezos—the environment appears to have changed recently. As Amazon and other tech firms look to mend their relationships with the new administration, Bezos shared a sense of optimism about potential regulatory changes that could arise during Trump’s second term.
In a significant move in October, Bezos opted not to allow The Washington Post to endorse any presidential candidate, which prompted a backlash resulting in numerous subscription cancellations and protests from seasoned journalists. A cartoonist even resigned this past weekend after her depiction of media executives, including the newspaper’s owner, bowing to the president-elect was rejected by an editor.
This documentary marks Ratner’s first directorial project since he faced allegations of sexual misconduct from several women, including actress Olivia Munn, around the onset of the #MeToo movement in November 2017. Ratner, known for directing films such as the “Rush Hour” series and “X-Men: The Last Stand,” has had his lawyer deny these accusations. The documentary’s executive producer is Fernando Sulichin, an Argentine filmmaker, with filming beginning in December.
Melania Trump, who is Donald Trump’s third wife, has maintained a notably private persona since his presidential campaign launch in 2016. Throughout her time as first lady, she has primarily focused on raising their son, Barron, while also advocating for her “Be Best” initiative aimed at enhancing the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children.
Although she made appearances at her husband’s 2024 campaign launch and attended the conclusion of this summer’s Republican National Convention, she has remained largely absent from the campaign trail. However, once she assumes her role as first lady once again, it is likely that her public presence will increase as they settle into their new political chapter.
