The Lake Theater & Café in Lake Oswego, Oregon, has decided to stop showing the documentary “Melania,” which focuses on Melania Trump during the days leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration. This change happened after Amazon Studios pulled the film, unhappy with how it was being promoted.
Manager Jordan Perry shared that Amazon didn’t appreciate the marquee messages, like “Does Melania wear Prada? Find out Friday!” and a quote from Sun Tzu, “To defeat your enemy, you must know them.” After a call from Amazon requesting the film’s removal, the theater’s marquee was changed to explain the cancellation humorously. Instead of just pulling the film, it now reads: “Amazon called. Our marquee made them mad. All ‘Melania’ showings canceled. Show your support at Whole Foods instead. Join Amazon Prime for Free Two-Day Shipping.”
Perry mentioned that many local patrons questioned why the film was scheduled in the first place. He stated that booking “Melania” was meant to be a light-hearted decision during a slow week for films. He thought it could be funny to show a film about a controversial figure at a theater known for its offbeat selections.
Interestingly, the film’s director, Brett Ratner, secured the rights for $40 million in 2025, highlighting the significant investment in a project that quickly became embroiled in controversy. As of now, Amazon Studios has not commented on the situation.
The reaction on social media has been mixed. Some see the theater’s approach as amusing and fitting for the local vibe, while others view it as a publicity stunt. This incident reflects a broader conversation about how films are promoted and received in today’s charged political climate.
In an era where audience perspectives can change rapidly, the tale of “Melania” serves as a reminder of the thin line between humor and offense, especially in entertainment. It also speaks to the evolving nature of cinema, where the context of a film’s release can shift dramatically in response to viewer sentiments.
Source link
Amazon,Melania
