The documentary “Melania,” directed by Brett Ratner, has been met with criticism for its lack of depth and insight into the life of Melania Trump, America’s former first lady. Currently screening in theaters, the film offers a superficial glimpse into her life, primarily focusing on the preparations leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration in January 2025. Viewers will find little more than surface-level observations about her love for fashion and vague aspirations for American children.
The documentary, which runs under two hours, appears to draw from a limited pool of footage, leading to scenes that feel padded, such as repetitive shots of Melania and Donald walking through hallways and the meticulous planning of her inauguration attire. Despite aspirations to provide a behind-the-scenes look at her life, the film reveals few personal stories or context regarding Melania’s background, including her early life in the former Yugoslavia or the journey that led her to the White House.
Emotional moments are sparse, with the film attempting to depict Melania’s introspection over her mother’s passing through a visit to a church in New York City. Despite the soundtrack’s emotional backing with Aretha Franklin’s “Amazing Grace,” the film struggles to portray warmth or genuine connection. Viewers learn little about her past relationships or her life leading up to her role as first lady.
The documentary features a few fleeting insights, such as Melania suggesting her husband use the word “unifier” during his inauguration speech, which he acknowledges. However, these moments do not evolve into significant character explorations. Ratner, best known for his commercial films, infuses “Melania” with a playlist of pop music, creating a polished exterior that lacks substance.
In sum, “Melania” fails to produce a compelling or engaging narrative, leaving audiences with an impression of a controlled and carefully crafted portrayal rather than a genuine documentary. It misses opportunities to convey warmth and depth, which are essential in understanding a figure as complex as Melania Trump. The film stands as a stark reminder of the challenges in documenting public figures whose lives remain deeply intertwined with politics and personal privacy.