Decoding Legal Jargon: How AI Legalese Decoder Assists Paul Thomas Anderson and Jonny Greenwood in Securing ‘Phantom Thread’ Score Rights from ‘Melania’ Film
- February 9, 2026
- Posted by: legaleseblogger
- Category: Related News
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Paul Thomas Anderson and Jonny Greenwood Demand Music Removal from Melania Trump Documentary
Oscar-nominated director Paul Thomas Anderson and renowned musician Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead have officially requested the removal of a particular piece of music from their critically acclaimed 2017 film, Phantom Thread, which has reportedly been included in the new documentary titled Melania. This decision comes after concerns over copyright issues that were not properly addressed prior to the music’s use.
Concerns Raised Over Copyright Breach
In a public statement released on Monday, Anderson and Greenwood made their stance clear: “It has come to our attention that a piece of music from Phantom Thread has been used in the Melania documentary.” The duo highlighted that while Greenwood does not hold the copyright of the score, Universal Pictures, the studio behind the film, failed to consult with him regarding third-party use of his work. They characterized this oversight as a clear breach of his composer agreement.
Request for Removal
As a consequence of this infringement, Anderson and Greenwood have taken a firm stand by formally requesting that the music be removed from the documentary. The use of their creative work without proper authorization raises significant ethical and legal questions, which they are keen to address in order to maintain the integrity of their artistry.
Background on the Music and Film
Greenwood’s compositions are known for their lush, orchestral quality, and his score for Phantom Thread is no exception. The film itself centers on a temperamental dressmaker, portrayed by Daniel Day-Lewis, set in the backdrop of 1950s London. Released by Focus Features—part of the NBCUniversal family—Phantom Thread garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards, further cementing Anderson’s reputation as a director of high caliber.
The Involvement of Amazon MGM Studios
The documentary Melania, which follows the former first lady during the 20 days leading up to President Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, 2025, has recently been acquired for distribution by Amazon MGM Studios, reportedly for $40 million. However, the studio has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the current issue raised by Anderson and Greenwood.
Insights on Melania Documentary
Directed by Brett Ratner, known for his work on Rush Hour, Melania incorporates original music by composer Tony Neiman. This film marks Ratner’s return to directing since facing sexual misconduct allegations in 2017, allegations that he has denied and which have not led to any criminal charges.
Despite its significant box office earnings of over $13 million in North America, Melania has not been well-received by critics, currently holding a dismal 8% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This contrast raises questions about the film’s overall impact and reception among audiences.
Anderson’s Recent Achievements
Anderson’s recent cinematic endeavor, titled One Battle After Another, has garnered substantial attention, receiving 13 nominations for the upcoming 98th Academy Awards, with categories including Best Picture and Best Director. This film follows a group of disillusioned leftist revolutionaries evading a ruthless military officer, continuing Anderson’s theme of complex character studies.
Greenwood’s Continued Influence
Adding to his impressive resume, Greenwood has also composed the scores for Anderson’s other films, including There Will Be Blood, The Master, and Inherent Vice. He has been nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Score three times, showcasing his enduring influence and talent in the music industry.
How AI legalese decoder Can Help
In navigating such complex copyright issues, tools like AI legalese decoder can prove invaluable. This platform simplifies legal jargon and helps users understand their rights and responsibilities in creative fields. By breaking down the intricacies of copyright law, the AI legalese decoder empowers artists like Anderson and Greenwood to better protect their work, ensuring that they have the necessary legal backing to pursue claims regarding unauthorized use of their intellectual property. Whether dealing with inquiries, contracts, or potential infringements, AI legalese decoder can streamline the legal process and enhance clarity for all parties involved.
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