Amazon’s premiere of the new documentary Melania is making headlines for more than what’s on screen. The high-profile screening at the Kennedy Center reportedly barred major mainstream outlets—including The New York Times, The Washington Post, the Associated Press, and Vanity Fair—while granting access to select right-leaning media organizations. The decision has sparked immediate backlash and fueled accusations that the rollout is being tightly controlled.
According to industry reports, journalists from outlets such as One America News were welcomed inside for the 6 p.m. screening, while others were turned away at the door. The selective guest list has raised questions about transparency surrounding the $75 million project, which focuses on former First Lady Melania Trump. Critics argue that restricting access to certain press organizations undermines open coverage and invites scrutiny over the documentary’s framing.
The controversy comes at a politically sensitive time, with national debate intensifying over recent immigration enforcement actions. Some observers have described the media strategy as poorly timed, suggesting it risks reinforcing perceptions that the film is more about message management than storytelling. Supporters of the project, however, maintain that the documentary offers a personal portrait of Melania Trump’s life and role during her time in the White House.
Several prominent Republican figures attended the premiere, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Lee Zeldin, Pete Hegseth, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Director Brett Ratner and producer Marc Beckman were also present. Beckman defended the film’s reception, stating that early audience response has been encouraging, even as reports indicate modest ticket sales in some markets.
Financially, the documentary carries significant weight. Amazon reportedly paid $40 million for distribution rights and spent an additional $35 million on marketing. Yet box office projections suggest a softer-than-expected opening, with estimates ranging between $3 million and $5 million. In some international markets, advance ticket sales have reportedly been minimal, adding another layer of intrigue to the film’s rollout.
Melania is set for a theatrical release before streaming exclusively on Prime Video. Whether it ultimately finds a broad audience remains to be seen. For now, the conversation surrounding the film appears just as focused on who was allowed in the room as on what viewers will see on the screen.
