Filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson and composer Jonny Greenwood have formally asked for the removal of music from their 2017 film, Phantom Thread, which was used without consent in the documentary about First Lady Melania Trump. The request came on February 9, after it emerged that a portion of the Phantom Thread score was included in the Melania documentary without proper consultation.
Details on the Copyright Dispute Over Phantom Thread’s Score
In a joint statement to Entertainment Weekly, Anderson and Greenwood expressed concern over the unauthorized use. They noted that although Greenwood does not hold the copyright to the score, Universal Pictures, which distributed the music, did not seek his approval. This oversight was described as a breach of the composer’s agreement, prompting both Anderson and Greenwood to demand the music’s removal from the film.
Context on the Melania Documentary and Its Distribution
The Melania documentary features material from various sources, including the music of Phantom Thread, which originally starred Daniel Day-Lewis. Focus Features, a division under Universal Pictures, handled the domestic distribution, while Universal distributed the documentary internationally. The inclusion of the score has become a contentious issue amid this partnership.
Background on Paul Thomas Anderson and Jonny Greenwood’s Collaboration
Paul Thomas Anderson, known for directing films like The Master and There Will Be Blood, collaborated with Radiohead guitarist Jonny Greenwood on Phantom Thread, released in 2017. Anderson was the writer, producer, and director, while Greenwood composed the film’s acclaimed score. Their cooperation on the movie earned significant praise for its artistry and musical depth.
Synopsis and Release of the Melania Documentary
The documentary Melania, which debuted earlier this year, chronicles the life of Melania Trump and her husband, President Donald Trump, focusing on the final days of his 2024 reelection campaign. In the film, Melania reflects on her journey to becoming the First Lady of the United States.
Melania herself described the film during a press event in December 2025, sharing,
“History is set in motion during the 20 days of my life prior to the U.S. presidential inauguration,”
Melania said.
“For the first time, global audiences are invited into theaters to witness this pivotal chapter unfold — a private, unfiltered look as I navigate family, business and philanthropy on my remarkable journey to becoming first lady of the United States of America.”
Distribution Deal and Premiere Information
The documentary was acquired by Amazon MGM Studios in a deal reportedly worth $40 million. Directed by Brett Ratner, known for the Rush Hour film series, Melania premiered at the renamed Trump Kennedy Center before opening in theaters nationwide.
Reception from Critics, Audiences, and President Trump
Since its release on January 30, Melania has generated mixed reactions. According to Rotten Tomatoes, only 10 percent of critics gave it a positive review, while fans rated it significantly higher, with a 99 percent approval score. The film grossed $13.35 million domestically within its first two weeks in theaters.
President Donald Trump praised the documentary ahead of its release, stating,
“I loved it. I thought it was really great,”
he said to reporters in January.
“It really brings back a glamour that you just don’t see anymore. Our country could use a little bit of that.”
Previous Music Rights Conflicts Involving the Trump Family
This dispute over Phantom Thread’s music is not unique, as numerous artists have objected to the unauthorized use of their work by members of the Trump family. Notable musicians including Queen, Nickelback, Rihanna, Neil Young, Steven Tyler, R.E.M., Adele, the Rolling Stones, Ozzy Osbourne, Tom Petty, Panic! At the Disco, Linkin Park, Prince, Axl Rose, Celine Dion, and Sinéad O’Connor have all requested that their music not be used in connection with the Trump family’s projects.
Implications and Future of the Music Usage Controversy
The situation highlights ongoing challenges relating to music licensing and copyright enforcement in film and media, especially when involving high-profile political content. The request from Anderson and Greenwood to remove the Phantom Thread score from Melania underscores the importance of respecting composer rights, even within large media conglomerates such as Universal. How Focus Features and other stakeholders will respond remains to be seen, and this incident may influence stricter adherence to licensing protocols in future documentary productions about prominent figures.
