What's Happening?
Lake Theater and Cafe in Lake Oswego, Oregon, faced backlash after a joke on its marquee about the documentary 'Melania' led Amazon to pull the film from the theater. The marquee read, 'To defeat your
enemy, you must know them. 'Melania' starts Friday.' This prompted Amazon, which acquired the documentary for $40 million, to request the film's removal. The theater received numerous complaints and negative reviews, leading to the decision to end the film's run early. Theater manager Jordan Perry noted the film's poor attendance and the controversy surrounding its screening.
Why It's Important?
This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding public figures and the impact of marketing decisions on business relationships. It underscores the power of public opinion and corporate influence in the entertainment industry. The situation also reflects the challenges independent theaters face in balancing creative expression with business interests. The theater's experience may serve as a cautionary tale for other venues considering similar marketing tactics.
What's Next?
Following the removal of 'Melania', Lake Theater and Cafe plans to continue its programming with other films. The theater may need to reassess its marketing strategies to avoid future conflicts with distributors. Amazon's response to the incident could influence its future dealings with independent theaters. The broader industry may watch to see if this incident affects the distribution strategies of other controversial films.
