Melania Trump steps into spotlight in Amazon film trailer
US First Lady Melania Trump
Image: Saul Loeb / AFP
US First Lady Melania Trump is opening herself up to the world, giving an inside look into her life before her husband's second swearing-in in an Amazon documentary.
The teaser for "Melania", which comes out January 30, shows the famously private Slovenian-American former model fixing the camera with an unflinching gaze and summing up her husband's comeback in four words: "Here we go again."
Amazon's licensing deal for the film is reportedly valued at about $40 million. Melania, who served as an executive producer, is set to receive 70 percent of that amount, a figure that has drawn scrutiny from her critics, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Amazon MGM promises "unprecedented access" in the documentary, which chronicles the 20 days leading up to Inauguration Day in January, from transition planning to closed-door meetings and off-stage moments.
The first lady, known for her sharply tailored looks, including sunglasses, stilettos, and a strapless inaugural ball gown, is often seen gliding through both the White House and the couple's Florida estate.
Beyond her style, she also plays a role in refining her husband's public image, stepping in to fine-tune his rhetoric while he rehearses speeches.
"Peacemaker and unifier," she interjects as Trump practices a line about his proudest legacy being that of a "peacemaker."
One exchange has already sparked intrigue for what it suggests about the couple's dynamic.
In a gilded high‑rise office, Melania calls to applaud her husband for the speech. "Hi, Mr. President. Congratulations," she says, and, when he asks, "Did you watch it?" replies: "I did not... I will see it on the news."
The documentary, titled "Melania," is set to premiere globally in theaters on January 30, with a subsequent three-part companion series and streaming availability on Prime Video.
Amazon states that the film provides a rare look "inside Melania Trump's world" as she returns to public life, featuring "exclusive footage" of private conversations and crucial meetings.
The footage includes scenes from a White House photo shoot in January, various travel moments, and more personal instances, such as the placing of a white flower at a graveside.
The project is directed by Brett Ratner, marking his first significant endeavor since multiple women leveled accusations of sexual misconduct against him in 2017, allegations he denies..
IOL