Amazon Removes Melania Documentary from Lake Oswego Theater
In a controversial turn of events, Amazon has removed the documentary “Melania” from the Lake Theater and Cafe in Lake Oswego, Oregon. The decision followed backlash over a marquee that humorously advertised the film.
A Joke Backfires: The Lake Theater Marquee
The theater’s marquee featured a playful tagline that stated, “To defeat your enemy, you must know them. ‘Melania’ starts Friday.” This edgy promotion, however, prompted immediate complaints from corporate representatives at Amazon, who secured the documentary for $40 million.
The Reaction from Amazon and the Public
The theater’s management, led by Jordan Perry, revealed on Instagram that Amazon expressed their dissatisfaction with the marquee’s marketing approach. They decided to pull the film from the screening schedule after just a few days. Perry noted that the theater received numerous emails and social media posts criticizing the showing of “Melania.” Many viewers voiced their disapproval and questioned why the documentary was being screened.
Background on “Melania” and the Theater’s Decision
- Film Title: Melania
- Production Company: Amazon, with Brett Ratner as director
- Initial Reception: Mixed reviews and low attendance at the theater
- Financial Considerations: Limited film options led to scheduling “Melania”
Perry explained that despite the negative feedback, the decision to show “Melania” stemmed partly from a desire to provide something unique and humorous in contrast to typical horror offerings. He expressed curiosity about the film, which he labeled as a vanity project of Melania Trump.
Financial Impact and Future Screenings
The theater noted a minimal financial contribution to Amazon’s revenue, stating they only generated $196 from ticket sales during the brief run of “Melania.” Perry made light of this amount by joking that it wouldn’t be noticed by the tech giant.
As the controversy continues, the theater prepares to showcase new films, such as “Wuthering Heights,” set to premiere shortly after the removal of “Melania.” The fallout from this incident raises questions about the influence of major film studios on independent theaters.
