The Trump family orchestrated an exclusive private screening at the White House this past Saturday to celebrate the launch of the controversial documentary focusing on former First Lady Melania Trump. The black-tie event, which welcomed approximately 70 high-profile guests, was marked by a distinctive monochrome aesthetic and lavish hospitality that has since sparked considerable debate.
A Themed Affair with Celebrity Attendees
Guests arriving at the executive mansion were treated to a meticulously curated experience. The screening took place in a temporary cinema constructed within the White House, necessitated by the demolition of the original cinema to make way for a new ballroom during the Trump administration. The guest list included notable figures such as former boxer Mike Tyson, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, Apple's Tim Cook, and Queen Rania of Jordan.
Monochrome Decor and Bespoke Entertainment
Upon entry, attendees were greeted in a grand reception room where an orchestra performed "Melania's Waltz," a custom theme song composed by Tony Neiman specifically for the film. The visual theme extended to the culinary offerings, with a table spread featuring black-and-white macarons, White House-shaped cookies, and popcorn served from a vintage cinema dispenser. Notably, cookies bearing the name "MELANIA" in bold lettering were distributed as part of the event's branding.
Controversy Surrounds the Opulent Premiere
The family has faced significant criticism for hosting such an extravagant event, particularly as it coincided with the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old nurse and U.S. citizen by a Border Patrol agent in Minnesota on the same morning. Critics have labelled the Amazon-funded project, which reportedly cost $40 million to produce with an additional $35 million for promotion, a "vanity project" for the former First Lady.
Documentary Details and Director's Comeback
The film, titled simply Melania, tracks its subject over the twenty days leading up to President Donald Trump's inauguration, offering a glimpse into her preparations to transition back to life in the White House. It is scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on January 30. The project marks a return to directing for Brett Ratner, who has not helmed a film since 2014's Hercules following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct in 2017, which he has consistently denied.
Exclusive Merchandise and Future Events
Attendees departed with specially prepared goodie bags containing an array of branded merchandise. These included framed screening tickets, commemorative popcorn boxes, gift-wrapped cookies, and a copy of Melania Trump's memoir wrapped in white ribbon. The event served as a precursor to an official premiere scheduled for this Thursday at the recently renamed Donald J Trump and the John F Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.
Marketing and Public Anticipation
Amazon has marketed the documentary as an insider's view into one of global politics' most enigmatic figures and her relationship with her husband. However, details and early previews for journalists have been tightly controlled, with full access reserved until the official premiere. A released trailer features Melania Trump stating, "Everyone wants to know, so here it is," alongside clips showing her during inauguration preparations, rallies, and private moments, including a phone conversation with the former President.
