Get ready to step into the world of Melania Trump! Her highly anticipated documentary, simply titled Melania, is hitting theaters in 2026, offering an exclusive look at her life and return to a powerful role. But there's already a lot of buzz (and a bit of controversy) around this film and its creators.

TL;DR: The Quick Scoop on Melania
  • The documentary Melania will premiere exclusively in theaters on January 30, 2026, then head to Prime Video.
  • It focuses on the 20 days leading up to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, with "exclusive footage" and "private conversations."
  • Directed by Brett Ratner, marking his first feature film since 2017 sexual misconduct allegations, which he has denied.

Unveiling Melania: What’s the Big Deal About This Documentary?

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Melania Trump is stepping back into the spotlight in a big way with her new documentary, aptly named Melania. Announced by Amazon MGM Studios, this film promises an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at her life as the First Lady-elect during a critical period: the 20 days leading up to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration. If you've ever wondered what goes on behind those guarded White House doors, this might be your chance to find out!

The project, which Melania Trump herself is producing, aims to showcase her orchestrating inauguration plans, navigating the intricate White House transition, and reentering public life with her family. Expect to see "exclusive footage capturing critical meetings, private conversations, and never-before-seen environments," according to the official synopsis. It sounds like we're in for an unfiltered journey through her preparations for what could be another term as First Lady.

Mark Your Calendars: The January 2026 Release Date and Where to Watch

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Get ready for a cinematic experience because Melania is slated for an exclusive theatrical release starting January 30, 2026, in the U.S. and select international territories. So, yes, you'll need to head to your local cinema to catch it first!

After its run on the big screen, the documentary will eventually make its way to streaming on Amazon's Prime Video. While an exact streaming date hasn't been announced yet, it's good to know that those who miss it in theaters will still have a chance to watch it from the comfort of their homes. This release strategy suggests Amazon MGM Studios is aiming for a significant cultural impact before making it widely accessible.

The Director Behind the Lens: Brett Ratner's Return to Hollywood

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One of the most talked-about aspects of this documentary isn't just Melania Trump, but also its director, Brett Ratner. This film marks Ratner's first directorial project in nearly a decade, and his involvement has certainly stirred up some conversation.

Back in 2017, Ratner, known for hits like the Rush Hour franchise and Red Dragon, faced accusations of sexual harassment and misconduct from six women, including actresses Olivia Munn and Natasha Henstridge, in a Los Angeles Times exposé. His lawyer, Marty Singer, denied all the allegations, but the fallout led to his deal with Warner Bros. being terminated, essentially making him persona non grata in Hollywood for years. Now, with Melania, he's back. It will be "fascinating to watch how the documentary does at the box office," and if it "could also mark the return of Ratner to Hollywood." Only time will tell if the industry rolls out the welcome mat again.

Show Me the Money! The Reported $40 Million Deal

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The financial details surrounding Melania are as intriguing as the film itself. Amazon reportedly shelled out a hefty $40 million for the rights to the documentary. Sources with knowledge of the deal suggest that Melania Trump herself is set to receive a significant chunk of that, potentially around 70% of the fee.

However, it’s worth noting that some insiders have questioned this figure. Puck News reported a source calling the "$40 million? That’s absurd. Maybe $5 million." Still, multiple outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, Variety, and The Mirror US, have cited the $40 million figure. Jeff Bezos, Amazon's founder, is said to have acquired the film after Melania reportedly pitched the project to him over dinner. He even donated $1 million to Donald Trump's inauguration fund, indicating a growing closeness between Bezos and the Trump family.

A Glimpse into Melania's Private World: What to Expect from the Footage

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If you're curious about the enigmatic former First Lady, this documentary aims to pull back the curtain. Melania Trump herself explained in a January interview on Fox & Friends that the documentary was inspired by the positive response to her 2024 self-titled memoir.

"I get so many messages and letters [about] how they enjoy the book, and they would love, my fans, and people would love to hear more from me. So, I had an idea to make a movie, to make a film about my life," she explained. "My life is incredible, it’s incredibly busy, and I told my agent, ‘I have this idea, so please go out and make a deal for me.’"

— Melania Trump on Fox & Friends

She added that the film would show "her day-to-day life," including her "responsibilities, from transition team to moving to the White House, packing, establishing my team, the First Lady office, moving into the White House, what it takes to make the residence your home, to hire the people that you need." This promises a level of access we haven't seen before, offering a unique perspective on the intricate process of assuming the First Lady's duties.

Beyond the Big Screen: A Three-Part Docuseries Is Also Coming

The theatrical film isn't the only content coming your way. Alongside the main documentary, Amazon will also release a three-episode docuseries on Prime Video. This companion series will delve deeper into Melania's life, following her as she travels between New York City, Palm Beach (likely Mar-a-Lago), and Washington, D.C., during that pivotal 20-day period before the inauguration.

While a release date for the docuseries hasn't been announced, it suggests a comprehensive look at her transition and her efforts to "re-enter public life." It sounds like Amazon is truly investing in giving viewers a full picture of Melania's journey.

Can Melania Rebrand Herself? An Expert Weighs In on Her Public Image

The documentary isn't just entertainment; it's also seen by some as a strategic move to "reposition" Melania Trump's public image. According to David E. Johnson, CEO of Strategic Vision PR Group, this film could be a "soft pivot from First Lady to cultural personality." However, he believes its success hinges on her ability to "humanize herself" and "open up," crafting a compelling narrative that isn't solely defined by her husband, Donald Trump.

Johnson drew comparisons to figures like Meghan Markle and Victoria Beckham, who successfully rebranded themselves by controlling their stories. He noted that Melania's brand is still heavily tied to her husband's presidency and its controversies, and her well-known privacy could be a barrier to a successful reinvention. "If it seems real, she can do it. If it seems contrived, forced, and inauthentic, she will flop," Johnson told The Mirror US. This documentary could be her chance to show a different side, but it will require a genuine shift in her public persona.

Wrapping It Up: A Must-Watch for Political and Film Fans Alike

Whether you're a political junkie, a documentary enthusiast, or just curious about the life of a former First Lady, Melania is shaping up to be a compelling watch. From the exclusive access to the controversial director, and the staggering price tag, there’s no shortage of reasons to keep an eye on this release. Get ready for January 2026 – Melania Trump is coming to a screen near you!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Melania Documentary When will the Melania documentary be released? The documentary is scheduled for an exclusive theatrical release on January 30, 2026. Where can I watch Melania? It will first be shown exclusively in theaters. After its theatrical run, it will be available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. What is the Melania documentary about? It offers an unprecedented look into Melania Trump's life during the 20 days leading up to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, focusing on her transition plans and re-entry into public life. Who is the director of Melania? The documentary is directed by Brett Ratner, known for films like Rush Hour. This marks his first directorial project in nearly a decade. Sources
  • Yahoo Entertainment
  • The Guardian
  • Vanity Fair
  • The Mirror US
  • The National News Desk
  • The Wrap
  • TV Insider
  • The Hill
  • SheKnows