White House Screens Amazon MGM’s ‘Melania’ Amid Uproar Over Federal Agent Incident
The White House recently hosted a screening for Amazon MGM Studios’ documentary “Melania.” The event took place amid growing tensions following a controversial incident in Minneapolis involving a federal immigration agent. This screening attracted many prominent guests, including significant figures from various industries.
Key Attendees at the Screening
- President Donald Trump
- First Lady Melania Trump
- Amazon CEO Andy Jassy
- CEO of Amazon MGM Studios Mike Hopkins
- Barron Trump
- Other notable guests: Tony Robbins, Brett Ratner, Erika Kirk, Mike Tyson, Queen Rania of Jordan, Lynn Martin (New York Stock Exchange CEO), Eric Yuan (Zoom CEO), Larry Culp (General Electric CEO), and Tim Cook (Apple CEO).
Controversial Timing
The screening occurred on the same day as the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti during an ICE protest in Minneapolis. Federal agents claimed that Pretti posed a threat, but video evidence contradicted this narrative, leading to significant public outcry. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized the administration for holding the event amid ongoing crises.
Details of the Documentary
Directed by Brett Ratner, “Melania” offers an intimate look at Melania Trump in the weeks prior to her husband’s presidency. The film is set to premiere on January 30, shortly after a screening at the Kennedy Center. Reports indicate that Amazon paid $40 million for the rights to the documentary, underscoring its financial commitment to the project.
Event Overview
The screening was held in the East Room of the White House. Guests enjoyed a black-tie event with films projected on a large display, creating a formal setting for the occasion. While a movie theater once existed at the White House, it was demolished to make way for new construction plans, including a new theater. This marks a significant cultural moment as the First Lady expressed her appreciation for the guests and their contributions.
In a reflection shared on social media, Melania Trump expressed gratitude for the inspiring presence of friends and family during the event. Marc Beckman, an adviser to the First Lady, noted the warmth and grace that characterized the evening.
This documentary and the reception surrounding it have brought additional attention to the ongoing political climate, and the juxtaposition of a private screening against serious current events has prompted conversation across the nation.
