Amazon acquired the rights to a new documentary featuring Melania Trump, attracting significant attention not just for its subject but also for its director, Brett Ratner. A decade after facing sexual misconduct allegations, Ratner gained unfettered access to the Trump White House, a decision that has since raised eyebrows among Secret Service personnel.
The documentary, directed by Brett Ratner and bought by Amazon for $40 million, explores Melania Trump's time at the White House, sparking interest and controversy alike, Daily Mail reported.
Filming of the documentary wrapped up recently, having begun in December, while the Trump family was at the White House. Production insiders revealed the completion this past Tuesday, underlining that the filming spanned over 30 days within the presidential residence. This access provided by the Trumps to Ratner is central to the concerns expressed by the Secret Service agents.
Ratner has not directed a film in nearly ten years after facing allegations of sexual misconduct, which he has categorically denied. Melania Trump reportedly brought him into the documentary, appreciating that he was making a comeback despite being "canceled."
His involvement has drawn security concerns and reignited discussions about his past in the industry. An insider described his extensive access as "unfettered," implying a level of intimacy and behind-the-scenes coverage rarely afforded to filmmakers in political spheres.
This kind of access concerned Secret Service members, who must protect the personal and professional sanctity of the presidency. Their discomfort highlights the unique challenges high-profile documentary projects involving controversial figures pose.
Fernando Sulichin, known for his ability to secure discreet access to influential figures, produced the film. An associate described him as someone who prefers to avoid the limelight, focusing instead on the substance of his work. This approach may have played a role in managing the sensitive aspects of the documentary's production.
The documentary is set for a release in the second half of 2025, with plans for a brief theatrical run before it becomes available on Prime Video. However, the financial details regarding Melania Trump’s participation in the documentary remain undisclosed.
Despite the controversy, Melania Trump has been actively promoting the project, including a notable appearance on "Fox and Friends." Her involvement and advocacy for the documentary suggest a personal endorsement of Ratner's portrayal of her time in the White House.
Jen Salke, head of Amazon Studios, reportedly had reservations about acquiring the documentary. An executive from another studio claimed that although Salke was not personally interested, she was instructed to proceed with the acquisition by higher executives at Amazon.
The project had also drawn interest from other major studios like Disney and Paramount, but Amazon ultimately won the bidding war. Some industry insiders speculate that this acquisition could be part of a larger strategy by Amazon to curry favor with former President Donald Trump.
Adding to the documentary's high-profile nature, Elon Musk reportedly appears in it, potentially attracting more viewers due to his significant public following and controversial status.
The collaboration between Ratner and Melania Trump, coupled with the high bidding by Amazon, underscores the ongoing interest in political documentaries that offer an insider look at prominent figures. The film’s reception and impact, particularly how it addresses the controversies surrounding its production and its subjects, will likely be a focal point of discussion upon its release.
As the documentary progresses toward its release, the discussions it sparks—both within the realms of politics and entertainment—will likely provide further fodder for debates over privacy, security, and the public’s right to an inside look at historical and political figures.
