Guests were welcomed to the Saturday screening by a full military band playing famous movie tunes and “Melania’s Waltz,” a song composed for the film by Hollywood composer Tony Neiman. According to one invitee, guests were also treated to commemorative black and white popcorn boxes; framed, collectable screening tickets; and “take home cookies” bearing the first lady’s name. A limited-edition version of her bestselling Melania was also gifted to attendees.
But since THR’s exclusive report on the screening was published Saturday night, the White House and many of Melania’s guests have faced fierce criticism for going ahead with the event despite ongoing fallout from the murder of an anti-ICE protestor in Minnesota. (The screening was scheduled months before the shooting.)
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez took to X to slam the event writing, “Today DHS assassinated a VA nurse in the street, Bondi is attempting to extort voter files, and half the country is bracing on the eve of a potentially crippling ice storm with FEMA gutted. So what is the President up to? Having a movie night at the White House. He’s unfit.” Apple’s Tim Cook and other CEOs also came under fire, especially Amazon’s Jassy, who is said to have personally approved the company’s massive $40 million payout for the doc.
Despite the criticism, however, Melania seemed pleased with the event, writing on X: “I am deeply humbled to have been surrounded by an inspiring room of friends, family, and cultural iconoclasts at the White House last night. Each of these individuals brought their unique vision to the world, making a lasting impression. Our personal stories endure time and serve as a reminder of our mutual obligation to one another. It was an honor to present my new film, Melania, ahead of its global launch.”
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