A new documentary offering a curated glimpse into Melania Trump’s world has sparked both public fascination and significant controversy. ‘Melania: 20 Days to History,’ co-produced by the First Lady herself and director Brett Ratner, premiered in U.S. theaters this Friday, presenting a carefully constructed narrative of her transition into the White House during the lead-up to her husband’s January 2025 inauguration.
The film arrives amidst a turbulent political climate, with its release timing criticized as insensitive following fatal shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis. Despite this backdrop, the documentary deliberately sidesteps political discourse, focusing instead on the First Lady’s personal journey, her meticulous attention to detail in event planning and fashion, and her navigation of grief following her mother’s death in January 2024.
Viewers are offered intimate, though often superficial, moments: Melania reviewing fabric swatches with her long-time stylist Hervé Pierre, discussing mutual interests with France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron, and privately mourning her mother. The documentary reveals her musical preferences, including a fondness for Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean,’ and captures her candid admission of the challenges inherent in her ‘structured’ role, which affords ‘fewer quiet moments.’
President Donald Trump appears sparingly, primarily to offer praise, stating on camera that his wife ‘has done a great job.’ Notably absent are deeper explorations of Trump family dynamics or substantive policy discussions. The film instead portrays Melania’s philosophy of using her influence to ‘fight for those in need,’ exemplified by an emotional meeting with former Israeli hostage Aviva Siegel.
The project’s association with Amazon MGM Studios—which reportedly spent $40 million for rights and $35 million on marketing—has drawn scrutiny from government watchdogs, questioning the optics of such financial investment during heightened billionaire access to the White House. Furthermore, the involvement of director Brett Ratner, previously accused of sexual misconduct, has added another layer of controversy. Despite these criticisms, initial screenings attracted supportive, flag-attired audiences who cheered throughout, highlighting the deeply polarized reception of a documentary that seeks to redefine a famously enigmatic figure.