Amazon MGM Studios Acquires $40 Million Rights to Melania Trump Documentary Film and Series
Amazon MGM Studios has secured rights for approximately $40 million to produce a documentary film centered on Melania Trump, marking one of the largest documentary deals in recent history. The project will cover the 20 days leading up to the January 20, 2025, inauguration with a runtime of 104 minutes, and is scheduled for worldwide theatrical release on January 30, 2026.
The acquisition outpaced bids from other major platforms including Disney, Netflix, and Paramount, with Amazon bidding for both the film and a companion documentary series slated for release in the following months. Executive producer Marc Beckman led negotiations alongside discussions with Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, clarifying that the reported bid was not nearly three times the nearest competitor but acknowledged Amazon’s dual interest in both formats.
Melania Trump actively participated as a producer and guided the creative vision, closely overseeing post-production and marketing efforts to ensure the project achieves a cinematic standard distinct from traditional documentaries. The film is directed by Brett Ratner of RatPac Entertainment, with executive producers including Melania Trump and Fernando Sulichin.
The narrative follows the former First Lady’s experiences moving through iconic locations such as Trump Tower, Mar-a-Lago, and Washington, D.C. It offers behind-the-scenes insights into moments like the inauguration and security details, aiming for a historic and intimate portrayal. An exclusive trailer released through Fox News features prominent scenes such as the Capitol rotunda and Air Force One, signaling an elevated and cinematic representation of Melania Trump's role and life during this period.
