Melania Trump: A Documentary Shrouded in Controversy
This weekend marks the release of a highly debated film focusing on the former First Lady, directed by a filmmaker with a checkered past. It’s a rare instance where a presidential administration’s image faces a direct public assessment at the box office. While Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004) successfully tapped into anti-Bush sentiment, becoming a box office phenomenon, the Melania documentary faces a different landscape.
A Significant Investment
Unlike Moore’s self-promoted project, the star of this film is undeniably Melania Trump herself. Distributed by Amazon/MGM, the documentary is playing in 1,500 theaters. While a wide release is uncommon for documentaries, Melania is reaching roughly half the number of theaters as Amazon’s recent release, Mercy. Box office predictions are varied, ranging from a modest $1 million to a more optimistic $5 million. Even the higher estimate would place it in line with other right-leaning documentaries like Am I Racist?, which grossed $12 million in 2024.
The $75 Million Gamble
However, the financial stakes are significantly higher. Amazon has invested a remarkable $75 million in the project – the most the company has ever spent on a single documentary. This substantial investment reportedly stemmed from a post-election bidding war, fueled by concerns about aligning with a perceived rightward shift in public opinion. Legally, the payment to Melania Trump (reportedly nearly $30 million of the initial $40 million outlay) was permissible, as she is a private citizen, despite her connection to the presidency.
A President’s Promotion and a Disgraced Director
The situation has drawn criticism, including the unusual sight of a president actively promoting a film about his wife, even amidst other controversial actions. Amazon defends its investment as a response to perceived audience interest, not a political maneuver. The project was acquired “sight unseen,” meaning Amazon committed to the $40 million deal before the film even existed, relying on the involvement of director Brett Ratner.
Brett Ratner’s Return
Ratner, known for the Rush Hour trilogy, hadn’t directed a feature film in 12 years following accusations of sexual misconduct (which he denies). His involvement adds another layer of controversy to the project. Reports suggest a chaotic production process, with multiple camera crews and allegations of unprofessional behavior.
Limited Access and Early Reactions
The film has been withheld from critics, forcing anyone wishing to review it to purchase a ticket. Early sales, particularly in traditionally liberal areas like Manhattan, have shown surprising strength in some theaters. However, other locations, like the AMC Empire in Times Square, have seen minimal ticket sales. Anecdotal reports indicate some booing of the trailer during commercial screenings.
Beyond the Box Office
Regardless of its financial performance, the documentary’s impact may extend beyond the box office. For Melania Trump, the financial reward is already secured. The film seems to serve a larger purpose for her husband and his supporters – reinforcing a narrative of glamour and power. Ultimately, Melania highlights a key aspect of Hollywood: securing funding, even if it means someone else is footing the bill.
Learn more about the controversies surrounding Brett Ratner: The Guardian
