Melania Trump's Documentary Faces Box Office Disappointment and Crew Criticism
A new documentary focusing on former First Lady Melania Trump is encountering significant hurdles as it prepares for its theatrical release, with underwhelming ticket sales and behind-the-scenes turmoil casting a shadow over the project.
Poor Pre-Sales and Projections Signal Trouble
According to industry analysts, Melania: Twenty Days to History is projected to earn between $1 million and $5 million during its opening weekend, figures that are far from promising for a high-profile release. In London, where the film will debut at four Odeon cinemas, only 60 pre-sale tickets have been sold across eight sessions, indicating a lack of public interest. Vue chief executive Tim Richards has described ticket sales as 'soft', adding to concerns about the documentary's commercial viability.
Chaotic Production and Crew Discontent
Insiders have revealed a tumultuous production process, with crew members describing the environment as 'highly disorganised and very chaotic'. One source highlighted the challenges of filming around Melania Trump's Secret Service detail, while others criticised director Brett Ratner's behaviour on set. Allegations include:
- Ratner leaving rubbish behind and ignoring colleagues.
- Crew members not being allowed meal breaks.
- Approximately two-thirds of New York-based crew requesting anonymity in the credits.
One credited individual expressed regret, stating they are 'much more alarmed now than I was a year ago' about their involvement. However, not all feedback was negative; one person praised Ratner as an 'intuitive, incredible, emotional, intelligent director'.
Controversial Amazon Deal and Promotion
The documentary, which offers a glimpse into Melania Trump's preparations for the 2025 presidential inauguration, sparked a bidding war between Disney and Paramount Plus before Amazon secured it for a staggering $40 million. This deal made it the highest-priced documentary ever, with Melania Trump reportedly earning $28 million. Critics have questioned the arrangement, suggesting it 'just looks like it’s buying access and favour', though Amazon MGM Studios denies any ulterior motives, claiming they licensed it because 'customers are going to love it'.
To boost the film's profile, Amazon is investing an additional $35 million in promotion, and Melania Trump rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Despite these efforts, Amazon has refused to provide screeners to critics, limiting early reviews.
Public and Political Reactions
The release has not been without controversy. Vue cinemas have received numerous emails from the public criticising their decision to screen the film, though Richards emphasised they do not 'play judge and jury to censor movies'. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has promoted the film on social media, calling it a 'MUST WATCH' and claiming tickets are selling out fast, contrary to reports.
In a late-night monologue, Jimmy Kimmel mocked the documentary, referring to it as a '$75 million bribe' and noting Melania Trump's alleged frustration that news events are overshadowing its release. The film marks Ratner's first major project since facing sexual misconduct allegations in 2017, which he denied.
As the documentary rolls out in over 5,000 cinemas worldwide, including more than 100 in the UK, its success remains uncertain. One crew member summed up the sentiment, saying, 'If it does flop…I would really feel great about it.'
