LOS ANGELES (AP) — Melania Trump, the incoming first lady, is set to be the focus of a new documentary helmed by director Brett Ratner and to be distributed by Amazon Prime Video. Amazon Prime Video, the streaming service arm of the tech behemoth, has secured exclusive licensing rights for a forthcoming streaming and theatrical release slated for later this year, the company confirmed on Sunday.
Filming for the documentary is already in progress, with a statement from the company declaring that the film will provide audiences with an “unprecedented behind-the-scenes look” at Melania Trump, promising a narrative that is “truly unique.”
This documentary is just the latest link between Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and President Donald Trump. In a show of support, the company announced in December its intention to donate $1 million to the President-elect’s inauguration fund, in addition to committing to stream Trump’s inauguration on its Prime Video service, an additional in-kind donation valued at $1 million.
Despite previous friction between the two men, with Trump once openly criticizing Amazon and its owner Bezos, recent interactions suggest a more cooperative stance as Amazon and other tech entities aim to foster positive relations with the incoming administration. Bezos shared his optimism for the future, including potential regulatory relaxations under the new leadership.
This documentary marks Ratner’s return to the director’s chair following allegations of sexual misconduct raised by multiple women, including actor Olivia Munn, during the early days of the #MeToo movement in November 2017. The acclaimed director, known for projects such as the “Rush Hour” series, “Red Dragon,” and “X-Men: The Last Stand,” had denied the accusations through his legal representation.
Executive producing the film is Argentine filmmaker Fernando Sulichin, with shooting commencing in December. Melania Trump, the third wife of Donald Trump, has maintained a somewhat enigmatic presence since her husband’s entrance into the political sphere in the 2016 election cycle. Despite limited public appearances, Melania has been active in her role as first lady, focusing on her son Barron and advocating for her “Be Best” initiative geared towards enhancing the well-being of children.
While Melania did make appearances at campaign events leading up to the 2024 election launch and attended the final night of the Republican National Convention last summer, her involvement in public engagements remains selective. However, the obligations associated with her forthcoming return to the role of first lady may necessitate a more prominent public presence following the Inauguration Day proceedings.
