The Meaning of 'Melania'

The Melania movie is pitched as a documentary following the first lady of the United States in the lead-up to her husband’s second inauguration. But it’s missing all the hallmarks of a journalistic, biographical film. What you get instead is a series of aphorisms that clang loudly against the reality being shaped by Donald Trump. And of course, shot after shot of $1,000 shoes, gold decorations, and private planes. The Atlantic staff writer Sophie Gilbert describes the film as a “two-hour perfume commercial." Gilbert joins the show to talk about the movie, about the real Melania, and about President Trump’s efforts to shape culture. - - - Get more from your favorite Atlantic voices when you

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The Meaning of 'Melania' is an episode from Radio Atlantic by The Atlantic.

This episode is 25:49 long.

This episode was published on Feb 7, 2026.

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