Melania Trump has released a trailer for a new documentary, “Melania,” sparking immediate and divided reactions across social media and political circles. The film, reportedly licensed by Amazon in a substantial $40 million deal, promises an intimate look into the former First Lady’s life leading up to her husband Donald Trump’s potential second inauguration. Its unveiling has ignited debate, with supporters praising her elegance and critics questioning the project’s timing and financial implications.

The newly released clip opens with Melania Trump in the Capitol Rotunda, notably wearing her signature wide-brimmed hat, during her husband’s swearing-in ceremony. A suspenseful soundtrack accompanies her remark, “Here we go again,” setting a reflective tone. The trailer quickly transitions through various scenes, showing Mrs. Trump at the White House, Mar-a-Lago, and Trump Tower in New York City, offering glimpses into her public and private engagements.

A significant portion of the trailer features interactions with former President Trump. One segment shows him preparing for a speech, stating, “My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker,” to which Melania Trump adds, “Peacemaker and unifier.” Another notable exchange captures her speaking to Mr. Trump on the phone, congratulating him and humorously admitting she had not yet watched a specific event, saying, “I will see it on the news.”

Following the trailer’s release, an outpouring of positive commentary emerged from loyalists and conservative figures. The White House Rapid Response X account shared the trailer, hailing her as “an incredible First Lady.” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed excitement, as did former congressman George Santos, who recently received a pardon from President Trump. Colorado Republican Lauren Boebert also endorsed the project, anticipating it would be “incredible.”

Conversely, the documentary faced sharp criticism, with many observers labeling it as exploitative. Tennessee political strategist Chris D. Jackson remarked on X, “The GRIFT continues,” directly challenging the film’s perceived intent. Miles Taylor, a former Department of Homeland Security appointee during the first Trump administration, suggested the deal should be categorized under Amazon’s “lobbying expenses,” implying political motives behind the significant investment.

Further criticisms highlighted the perceived disconnect between the film’s production and broader societal issues. Rhonda Elaine Foxx, former Biden campaign director of women’s engagement, commented on the irony of a First Lady making a movie when “people literally cannot afford food,” questioning the nation’s “moral compass.” Pod Save America co-host Tommy Vietor went further, alleging Amazon paid a “$40 million bribe” for content that could have been produced by the White House press office.

Beyond the political discourse, some social media users drew comparisons to established cinematic works. Journalist Louis Pisano noted the cinematography’s resemblance to the series “Succession,” while another user found the aesthetic reminiscent of “TITANIC (1997).” The film’s director, Brett Ratner, has a controversial past, having largely retreated from Hollywood in 2018 amid the MeToo movement following multiple accusations of sexual misconduct, which he has consistently denied.

Reports indicate Amazon licensed the film for an estimated $40 million, an agreement that also includes a subsequent two-to-three episode docuseries focusing on the former First Lady’s life. While Melania Trump typically maintains a relatively low political profile, the documentary promises a rare behind-the-scenes perspective. Viewers can also anticipate brief appearances by former President Trump and their son, Barron.

“Melania” is scheduled for an exclusive theatrical release on January 30, 2026. Details regarding its eventual availability on Amazon’s streaming platform remain undisclosed, leaving a gap between its initial cinematic run and potential broader digital distribution. The substantial financial backing and the involvement of a controversial director have positioned this documentary as a subject of intense scrutiny and public interest.

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Keywords: Melania Trump documentary, Amazon $40 million deal, Brett Ratner controversy, Trump second inauguration, Political documentary reactions, First Lady film, Melania Trump trailer, January 30, 2026 release