Melania Trump Movie Pulled From Release by Filmfinity, Reason Revealed

Melania, a new movie about First Lady Melania Trump, has been pulled from theaters by Filmfinity on the eve of its release date.

Why is the Melania Trump movie being pulled by Filmfinity?

According to the New York Times, Melania will not be screened in South African theaters. The decision to pull the documentary stems from the local distributor, Filmfinity.

“Based on recent developments, we’ve taken the decision to not go ahead with a theatrical release in territory,” said Thobashan Govindarajulu, the head of sales and marketing for Filmfinity.

Govindarajulu explained that Filmfinity was not asked to pull the film, emphasizing that it was their decision. It remains unknown if President Donald Trump‘s combative relationship with South Africa played a role in Filmfinity removing Melania from theaters. Trump previously suggested that a white genocide was occurring in South Africa, a statement that has been heavily refuted.

“Melania offers unprecedented access to the 20 days leading up to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration — through the eyes of the First Lady herself,” the official synopsis reads. “Step inside Melania Trump’s world as she orchestrates inauguration plans, navigates the complexities of the White House transition, and moves her family back to the Nation’s Capital. With exclusive footage capturing critical meetings, private conversations, and never-before-seen environments, Melania showcases Mrs. Trump’s return to one of the world’s most powerful roles.”

Melania is directed by Brett Ratner, the controversial director who has been previously accused of sexual assault. Ratner is listed as a producer alongside Melania Trump, Fernando Sulichin, and Marc Beckman.

Amazon MGM Studios reportedly paid $40 million to distribute Melania. The studio is also paying $35 million in P&A to market the documentary.

Melania’s box office tracking has it opening around $5 million, but it could exceed that figure. If that happens, Melania would pass Angel Studios’ After Death for the biggest opening for a documentary in a decade.

Melania hits theaters on January 30, 2026.

Source: Comingsoon.net