What We Learned – and Didn’t – from the Melania Documentary
Insights from Melania Trump’s Documentary
Melania Trump has often remained a mystery, frequently stepping out of the spotlight as her husband, Donald Trump, took center stage. With the release of the documentary Melania: 20 Days to History, co-produced by Melania herself, viewers gain a closer look at her life leading up to her husband’s January 2025 inauguration. The film debuted in U.S. cinemas on Friday, amidst considerable controversy, including critiques over its funding and timing, coinciding with protests related to tragic incidents involving federal agents.
Despite the provocative backdrop, those seeking deeper revelations about Melania may find the film lacking. Much of the runtime captures her on the move, attending public events, or transitioning between meetings regarding fabric samples and dinnerware. However, intimate moments with her inner circle offer fleeting insights into the life and perspectives of this intriguing first lady.
Fleeting Off-Script Moments: A Glimpse into Melania’s World
Melania opens the documentary with a clear intention: “I want to show the American people my journey from private citizen to first lady.” The film briefly addresses the controversy surrounding its production, showcasing a moment where her staff responds to media inquiries. Directed by Brett Ratner, who previously faced allegations during the #MeToo movement, the film is his first since those events, which he denies.
Most scenes unfold in Trump Tower and Mar-a-Lago, revealing spaces where Melania collaborates with trusted stylists and decorators. Interactions with Ratner provide insight into her personality. For instance, when asked about her favorite music, she reveals a fondness for Michael Jackson, particularly Billie Jean, which plays during key moments in the film.
Melania’s Most Personal Struggles
This documentary also delves into Melania’s vulnerabilities, particularly her mother’s death in January 2024. She candidly expresses her overwhelming grief during conversations about White House plans and reflects on her mother’s passing while attending former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral. The juxtaposition of her loss and the public duties she faces adds depth to her character: “My beloved mother will be on my mind,” she reiterates during a particularly poignant moment.
Connections with Close Friends
While Donald Trump makes several appearances, the film primarily showcases Melania’s interactions with a small group of confidants, including her longtime stylist, Hervé Pierre, and French First Lady Brigitte Macron. The appreciation between Melania and Macron surfaces as they discuss mutual concerns, such as youth anxiety and social media. Their camaraderie contrasts with Melania’s meticulous discussions with Pierre, where even minor design details become points of focus—highlighting her strong opinions and background as a model.
However, notable absences of broader family dynamics are apparent. The Trump children are merely background figures, and while Melania expresses affection for her son Barron, he largely avoids the cameras.
Navigating the Complicated Role of First Lady
Throughout the documentary, Melania expresses her struggles with the role of first lady, describing it as “more structured” and filled with public obligations that limit personal freedom. She conveys the emotional toll of Donald Trump’s political campaign but refrains from sharing personal views on current issues, consistently redirecting attention back to him.
Amid scenes of grief and empathy, such as when she meets with an Israeli woman whose husband was held hostage, Melania asserts her commitment to using her position to advocate for those in need: “I will always use my influence and power to fight for those in need.”
Reactions Divided by Politics
Documentaries have increasingly become a strategy for celebrity image control, offering a unique blend of intimacy and promotion. During a screening attended by a flag-waving crowd, the audience’s enthusiasm highlighted Melania’s appeal among her supporters. However, the political implications of the documentary created a divisive atmosphere even before its release.
Critics characterized the film’s launch as tone-deaf, particularly given its timing with ongoing protests, and raised concerns about Amazon’s substantial investment in its production. Despite these critiques, the documentary showcases Melania’s preference for focusing on the intricacies of public life rather than political discourse.
Conclusion: A Journey of Personal Growth
Ultimately, Melania: 20 Days to History serves not only as a portrayal of her life but also as a reflection on her evolving role. Melania encapsulates her experience as first lady with a poignant remark: As first lady, the real nobility is becoming stronger than the person I was yesterday. The film offers a complex look at a figure who balances public expectation with private struggle, leaving viewers with a nuanced perception of one of America’s most enigmatic first ladies.