If you’ve caught the trailer for The Devil Wears Prada 2, you can imagine the flavor of Melania, the new documentary about Melania Trump. Directed by Brett Ratner, the film takes us behind the scenes during the crucial 20 days leading up to her husband’s second inauguration.
The documentary showcases Melania’s meticulous planning. It dives into everything from selecting invitations for balls to finalizing details for a candlelit dinner at the National Building Museum. With her team, she debates tiny details like tablecloth designs—should they have wide gold stripes or narrow ones? Every decision counts, and she’s in control.
At times, the former president appears, including a staged flashback of a call from election night. During preparations for his inaugural speech, Melania suggests he labels himself a “peacemaker.” He includes her suggestion, leading to applause—a moment that feels crafted for the film rather than reality.
Melania takes center stage as both the star and executive producer. She highlights her favorite music, like Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” along with her vision for the documentary.
The film doesn’t shy away from challenges. For instance, there’s a scene about her mother’s death, which adds a poignant note to Melania’s journey. She shares scripted thoughts on the Capitol’s history and her respect for the military, showcasing a carefully curated self-image, even as she navigates personal grief.
While Melania carries an air of sophistication, the film is not without its quirks. Issues, like an ill-fitting blouse collar, are shown alongside highlights, like the generous $1 million donation from Jeff Bezos for the inauguration.
Amazon’s hefty $40 million investment for this film raises eyebrows, making it possibly the most costly infomercial ever produced. Despite its high production costs, box office predictions only suggest $5 million in revenue. This has led to speculation in Hollywood about Amazon’s true intentions behind the purchase.
In the end, Melania paints a polished picture of the First Lady. Critics might argue that its glossy portrayal glosses over the complex realities of her life. For a deeper understanding, it’s worth comparing this with candid biographies about prominent public figures, which often reveal contrasting truths.
As we watch Melania, it remains to be seen how audiences will react and whether they’ll appreciate the polished storytelling or crave a more authentic glimpse into the life behind the persona.
