A prominent American Senator is making a fiery claim against Amazon. Specifically, Elizabeth Warren is questioning MGM Studios’ acquisition of the film Melania. Amazon MGM paid $40 million to acquire the movie, plus $35 million to market it.
Elizabeth calls this investment “bribery in plain sight.” Melania takes an in-depth look at the 20 days leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration as President. The Senator led an investigation into this matter alongside Georgia Representative Hank Johnson.
The Democratic Senator made a bold accusation
Amazon are pleading their innocence, but Elizabeth isn’t buying it. Speaking to Variety, she accuses the production company of “paying a far-above-market sum” to acquire the movie. Elizabeth adds that this “raises questions about Amazon’s exposure under federal anti-bribery law.” She believes they may be using their wealth to gain political influence or favorable treatment.
The movie about Melania Trump grossed over $16 million at the global box office. While that was seen as an impressive result, it could have been more. They didn’t get any money in from South Africa, which pulled the movie from theatres. However, since exhibitors keep half of the ticket sales, the box office money is not enough for Amazon MGM to break even. The former Presidential candidate notes that federal anti-bribery law makes it illegal to offer “anything of value.” That includes business opportunities or financial arrangements to elected officials or those closely associated with them.
Both Elizabeth and Hank called on Amazon to explain their $40 million payment for the film. They want to know if it was discussed with anyone in Donald’s administration. Amazon said their decision to licence it was for “the access, the story, and its cultural and historical relevance.” The company adds that they regularly release documentaries like this.
The fact that Amazon reportedly paid three times as much as the highest bidder for Melania is fishy to Elizabeth. Their bid was $26 million above Disney’s offer for the movie.
TELL US – DO YOU BELIEVE AMAZON BRIBED THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TO ACQUIRE MELANIA?
