Melania Trump Documentary Unveils Isolated Lifestyle and Political Aspirations
A new documentary directed by Brett Ratner offers a revealing glimpse into the life of Melania Trump, portraying an existence marked by solitude and rigid control. The film, which follows the former First Lady during key moments including her husband's inauguration, depicts a world where silence reigns and staff members mirror her style in a display of unwavering deference.
An Airless and Controlled Environment
Melania Trump's daily life appears meticulously curated, with the documentary capturing her moving through gilded corridors in near-complete silence, accompanied only by stern security personnel. Her staff uniformly adopt her aesthetic, predominantly wearing black or, in some cases, matching camel-coloured suits to align with her preferences. This extends to job candidates, who present themselves in monochrome attire with specific hairstyles and accessories, highlighting the pervasive influence of her personal style.
High-Stakes Fashion and Attention to Detail
Approximately thirty percent of the film is dedicated to the intricate preparations for Melania's inauguration outfits, underscoring her hands-on approach to fashion. She articulates a clear creative vision, instructing her team with precise commands such as "more tension, tighter" for collars and ensuring garments fit flawlessly. Scenes show her scrutinising every detail, from the fit of a coat to the stability of a hat brim, which she criticises as "a little bit wiggly-woggly". The tension is palpable, underscored by dramatic soundtrack choices that emphasise the high-pressure nature of these fittings.
Disinterest in Culinary Matters
While Melania oversees various aspects of inauguration events, the documentary reveals her limited engagement with catering details. The menu remains largely unexplored, with the exception of a golden egg appetiser served in an eggcup—a choice she approves solely for its colour. Notably, the film never shows her consuming food or drink, adding to the enigmatic portrayal of her priorities and daily routines.
Interior Design and Aesthetic Sensibilities
Melania demonstrates a keen eye for design, emphasising "timeless elegance" in event planning. She approves extravagant elements like large red envelopes for invitations, reminiscent of children's letters to Santa, and ensures meticulous maintenance of furnishings during transitions at the White House. Her office features a print of Renoir's La Loge, though the original resides in London's Courtauld Gallery, reflecting her appreciation for art within a controlled, curated environment.
Personal Relationships and Family Dynamics
The documentary hints at intimacy between Melania and Donald Trump through subtle gestures, such as her hand on his waist, interpreted as a signal of their ongoing connection. Donald's attempts at affection, like leaning in for a kiss despite her large hat, are juxtaposed with moments of distance, such as a brief phone call where she dismissively congratulates him on a political victory. Her relationship with their son, Barron, is portrayed warmly, with both parents expressing affection, though he remains silent throughout the film.
Cultural Influences and Personal Tastes
Melania shares her admiration for Michael Jackson, recalling a meeting with him and Donald and citing Billie Jean and Thriller as favourite songs. A lighthearted duet with director Brett Ratner in a limousine adds a rare moment of levity. Her preference for black attire is evident during sombre events, such as funerals and memorials, where she reflects on personal loss, including her mother's death, in private settings like St Patrick's Cathedral.
Political Ambitions and Self-Perception
Contrary to perceptions of apathy, Melania openly discusses her political goals, aiming to "break all norms" and redefine the role of First Lady. She expresses constant consideration for improving lawmakers' effectiveness, supported by deferential interactions with figures like Brigitte Macron. The film includes pointed references to political predecessors, such as Barack Obama and Kamala Harris, suggesting a competitive undertone to her public persona.
Documentary's Impact and Critical Reception
Despite a substantial budget and Melania's involvement in production, the documentary has been criticised for transforming a historically significant period into a monotonous and self-aggrandising narrative. Her reflection that inauguration day was "so rich with meaning" contrasts with viewer experiences of a prolonged and uneventful portrayal. The film features brief appearances by tech leaders like Jeff Bezos and Tim Cook, though it ultimately fails to innovate within the documentary genre, leaving audiences with a chilling depiction of vanity and control.
