The nation's capital was abuzz as First Lady Melania Trump unveiled her new film, "Melania: Twenty Days to History," at the Trump Kennedy Center on Thursday evening. The event, attended by a diverse group of celebrities, political figures, and media personalities, highlighted Melania's experiences during the transition period leading up to President Donald Trump's second inauguration.
The First Lady, adorned in a Dolce and Gabbana black dress, alongside President Trump, addressed a full house. She described the film not as a traditional documentary but as a "creative experience" that presents rare perspectives on pivotal moments rarely seen by the public. The narrative tracks her journey from Mar-a-Lago to Manhattan, capturing the private roles played during the transition.
Amidst the glitz of the premiere, which President Trump likened to the heyday of the Academy Awards, the absence of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was noted. Noem has recently been embroiled in controversy following a tragic incident in Minnesota, where two Americans were fatally shot by Border Patrol agents, igniting widespread condemnation and calls for her resignation.
The premiere also gathered a mix of attendees such as rapper Nicki Minaj, television personality Dr. Phil, and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. President Trump took the opportunity to commend Tom Homan, the immigration czar overseeing operations in Minnesota, for his focus on removing criminals while expressing dissatisfaction with the broader department's performance.
Melania Trump, in conversation with reporters, revealed that the film project was conceived immediately after President Trump's election victory, with her at the helm of every aspect of production to ensure the final product met her standards. The film, produced by Amazon MGM Studios after a competitive bidding process, represents a politically significant collaboration, considering the company's complex relationship with President Trump.
The premiere followed a private White House screening, which took place amidst criticism for its timing after the Minnesota shooting. The First Lady expressed her desire for the audience to gain a deeper understanding of her through the film, which promises to deliver humor, grief, and fashion, along with an intimate behind-the-scenes look at a notably scrutinized period.
Closing the trailer, Melania extended an invitation to the public to see her in a new light, as she steps into another term of intense scrutiny. Producer Marc Beckman echoed the sentiment, praising the First Lady's dedication to her family, business, and country in a tweet following the premiere.
