The upcoming Melania Trump documentary is generating more laughter online than anticipation at the box office. Despite a substantial $75 million investment – $40 million for distribution rights acquired by Amazon MGM Studios and another $35 million for marketing – the film is being met with widespread mockery rather than excitement.
Financial Investment vs. Public Reception
The documentary, directed by Brett Ratner, covers a 20-day period leading up to the 2025 presidential inauguration. While Donald Trump claims tickets are “selling out fast,” social media posts reveal a stark contrast, with images circulating of nearly empty theaters. Box office predictions vary wildly, ranging from a hopeful $5 million to a more realistic $1 million opening weekend.
Social Media Backlash
The film is already being “review-bombed” on platforms like Letterboxd, with users flooding the site with negative, humorous commentary. X (formerly Twitter) is alight with memes, with one popular user referencing Donald Trump’s well-known desire for artificial recognition. Comedians and commentators are joining the fray, further amplifying the mockery.
Promotion Efforts Fall Flat
Melania Trump herself participated in promotional activities, ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. A premiere is scheduled at the Kennedy Center, but the buzz suggests that the film may struggle to attract significant audiences. The stark disconnect between financial backing and public enthusiasm raises questions about the documentary’s viability.
The documentary’s reception highlights a growing trend : high-budget productions can still fail to resonate if public perception is overwhelmingly negative. The film’s failure to generate excitement, even with extensive marketing, indicates that social media sentiment now wields significant influence over cultural products. The online mockery suggests the film may become more infamous than successful.
