Amazon Requests Removal of 'Melania' Documentary from Oregon Theater Following Marquee Criticism

Lake Oswego Theater Cancels 'Melania' Screenings Following Amazon Request

The Lake Theater and Cafe in Lake Oswego, Oregon, known for its creative film advertising, was asked by Amazon to cease screenings of the documentary "Melania." The theater had prominently displayed witty messages on its marquee promoting the Amazon MGM film.

Among the notable messages displayed by the theater were:

"Does Melania wear Prada? Find out Friday"

Another message promoting the film read:

"To defeat your enemy, you must know them. Melania starts Friday"

Jordan Perry, the theater manager, reported that their booker received a direct call from an Amazon representative requesting the film's removal. Perry indicated that the studio's reaction stemmed from their marketing approach.

"The studio was not happy and/or did not appreciate my take on marketing their film to our own public."

Following Amazon's request, the theater's marquee was updated to reflect the situation:

"Amazon called. Our marquee made them mad. All Melania showings cancelled. Show your support at Whole Foods instead."

An additional message, "Join Amazon Prime for Free Two-Day Shipping," was also displayed. Amazon has not provided immediate comment on the matter.

The theater's management also shared on Instagram that they had received significant feedback from local moviegoers prior to the film's removal. Many individuals expressed dissatisfaction with the theater's decision to screen "Melania."

"Before then, we got countless emails and voicemails and Google / Yelp reviews (Google / Yelp took them down) wondering why the hell we had Melania here, or disdaining our disparaging of her."

Perry clarified that his decision to book "Melania" was influenced by the area's left-leaning political demographics, viewing the screening as an amusing choice during a period with few new film releases. During its single weekend of exhibition, the film generated $196 in ticket sales at the theater.