The buzz around the new documentary on Melania Trump, simply titled Melania, has drawn quite the crowd. Last week, the film opened in theaters, and for some, it was more than just a movie night—it was an event.
Lisa Copeland, a 60-year-old real estate entrepreneur from Austin, Texas, took nine friends to the premiere. They dressed to impress, channeling Melania’s signature style with tailored power suits. Copeland spiced it up with her own country-glam look: black leather pants and a pearl jacket adorned with beads.
As they settled in, celebrity sightings added to the excitement. Cecilia Abbott, wife of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, was among the guests. “For Republicans, this is girls’ night,” Copeland remarked.
The documentary focuses on the weeks leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration. Critics were harsh, calling it “a gilded trash remake” of another film. Yet, despite mixed reviews, the movie raked in $7 million during its opening weekend, making it the highest-grossing documentary in a decade—even if it still falls short of recouping its $70 million production costs.
Viewers showed strong support, especially among women and older audiences. A staggering 72% of ticket buyers were women, and 83% were over 45 years old. This demographic shift is intriguing in an era when younger men often dominate cinema audiences.
Many fans approached the film hoping for a “Real Housewives”-like reveal of Melania’s life. What they got instead was a closer look at her public persona—her elegance, composure, and some behind-the-scenes moments, including fittings for her inauguration gown. Some viewers, like 36-year-old Kelsey Davis, noted the emotional depth the film offered, especially in scenes where Melania reflects on personal loss.
Interestingly, Melania has maintained a somewhat elusive public image, often shying away from family displays in public. Some wondered if the documentary would provide more intimate glimpses into her personal life, particularly as it showcased both her strength and vulnerability, especially during the tumult of the Trump era.
Moreover, the film appears to tread carefully around current political issues. While it touched on historical events from Melania’s time as First Lady, it avoided diving deep into the controversies of the Trump administration. Davis appreciated this approach, citing that it provided a refreshing focus away from today’s divisive political climate.
Of course, reactions varied. Some women at a National Federation of Republican Women screening noted that criticism of the film often stemmed from opponents of Trump. This sentiment echoed in social media, where some joked about “fake ticket sales” and suspected bot activity inflating audience ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes.
Interestingly, Amazon has decided to expand the film’s reach after its successful opening. It will be shown in over 2,000 theaters during Super Bowl weekend, a strategic move to attract even more viewers.
All in all, whether you are a fan of Melania Trump or not, this documentary certainly sparked conversations, highlighting how her story is perceived in a culturally divided America.
For more insights, you can explore additional commentary on Melania from critics at The Guardian.
