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Documentary 'Melania' Pulled Amid US-South Africa Tensions

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The documentary "Melania" has been pulled from South African theaters after undisclosed developments, according to Filmfinity head of sales Thobashan Govindarajulu.
Amazon invested significantly in the film, but ticket sales were low.
The release coincided with strained South Africa–United States relations after U.S. President Donald Trump made controversial remarks about the country.
Film and Publications Board said they were unaware of the cancellation, suggesting a commercial decision rather than censorship.

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Story summary

The documentary "Melania" has been pulled from South African theaters after undisclosed developments, according to Filmfinity head of sales Thobashan Govindarajulu.
Amazon invested significantly in the film, but ticket sales were low.
The release coincided with strained South Africa–United States relations after U.S. President Donald Trump made controversial remarks about the country.
Film and Publications Board said they were unaware of the cancellation, suggesting a commercial decision rather than censorship.