Indie filmmaker Natalie Jasmine Harris has leveled accusations against Malia Obama, claiming that the former president’s daughter copied her work in a recent Nike commercial. The allegation centers around a specific scene featuring two characters playing pat-a-cake, which Harris believes closely resembles a moment from her short film “Grace.”
Harris reported that she and Malia first crossed paths at the Sundance Film Festival in 2024, where both of their projects were in competition. Despite being aware of the inherent similarities in the game of pat-a-cake, Harris emphasizes that her concern revolves around the unique cinematic techniques employed in the scenes, such as camera angles, shot compositions, and color palettes.
Harris expressed her disappointment not just for herself but for her entire team, noting that other filmmakers who viewed the commercial echoed her feelings and even conducted a shot-by-shot comparison of the two works. She raised a broader concern about the entertainment industry, highlighting the tendency of brands to overlook independent artists in favor of established figures. Harris questioned why Nike didn’t approach her to direct if they desired a similar aesthetic.
While initially hesitant to speak out given the high-profile nature of Malia Obama and Nike, Harris felt compelled to act, stating, “I’ve poured too much into my work to just sit by and watch.” She seeks acknowledgment from both Nike and Malia for what she views as a clear artistic borrowing.
Malia Obama, the eldest daughter of former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, graduated from Harvard in 2021. She has interned in various roles within the entertainment industry, from a production assistant on the set of “Extant” to contributing as a writer on HBO’s “Girls,” and recently, she was involved in Donald Glover’s acclaimed series “Swarm.” In 2024, she chose to transition away from the recognition associated with her family by adopting the name Malia Ann.
This incident not only highlights an ongoing conversation about originality and recognition in the creative industries but also raises important questions about the support available for independent artists facing powerful brands. Harris’s brave decision to voice her concerns could inspire more discussions around artistic integrity and support for emerging creators.