‘Melania’ documentary chaos as crew demand name removals from credits

‘Melania’ documentary crew seek name removals as backlash grows online, sparking fresh doubts over Amazon film

A growing storm has surrounded the upcoming Melania documentary after reports revealed that a large portion of the production crew asked to have their names removed from the final credits. The Amazon funded project, which follows Melania Trump in the 20 days leading up to Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration, is now facing renewed scrutiny as behind the scenes concerns spill into public view.

According to reports from crew members who worked on the New York based production, many felt increasingly uneasy about being linked to the film. One person who remained credited reportedly admitted regret, saying they were far more alarmed now than they were a year earlier. Another crew member openly stated that they would feel satisfied if the documentary underperformed financially, highlighting the level of internal frustration surrounding the project.

Much of the criticism has centred on director Brett Ratner, who returned to filmmaking with this project after years away from Hollywood following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct in 2017, which he has denied. Crew members described the set as chaotic, disorganised and exhausting, with long working hours and limited breaks. Several sources claimed that Ratner’s behaviour on set was the most difficult part of the production, with one crew member saying, “I feel a little bit uncomfortable with the propaganda element of this, but Brett Ratner was the worst part of working on this project.”

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Despite the tension surrounding the production team, insiders described Melania Trump herself as polite and uneventful on set, with some calling her boring but nice. The contrast between the First Lady’s low key presence and the alleged turmoil behind the camera has added another layer to the growing controversy.

Online reaction has been swift. Social media users have criticised Amazon’s reported investment in the documentary, which is said to be around $75 million including promotion. Comment sections across entertainment forums and political discussion boards have filled with debates over whether the film is an attempt to reshape public perception or simply a costly miscalculation. Some users have questioned the ethics of backing a project directed by such a divisive figure, while others have predicted a weak box office response.

The documentary has already screened privately at the White House and is scheduled to premiere at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC before opening in cinemas. With crew members distancing themselves and online backlash continuing to build, the Melania documentary now faces an uncertain reception as its public release approaches.