Melania Trump documentary divides critics, but draws fans across US

CARMEL: From sold-out theaters to nearly empty screening rooms, the new documentary about First Lady Melania Trump is drawing a starkly divided audience, reflecting the nation’s ongoing political split.

Amazon MGM Studios’ Melania, which follows the first lady during a 20-day stretch leading up to President Donald Trump’s return to office, premiered in select US cities on Friday. While critics have offered mixed reviews, the documentary appears to resonate strongly with Trump supporters. On Rotten Tomatoes, the audience score is soaring, highlighting the film’s popularity among loyal fans.

According to a report by CNN, at a Regal theater northeast of Indianapolis, roughly 100 viewers, mostly women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s, packed nearly every row for an afternoon showing. “It’s a gauntlet,” said Marla Ailor, a local official who attended. “You really appreciate what they have to go through to get through an event like that.” Audience members noted the film offered a new perspective on the daily demands of being first lady, including long hours and high-pressure appearances.

Similar enthusiasm was reported in Meridian, Idaho, and Jupiter, Florida, where older audiences praised Melania Trump’s poise, intelligence, and patience. Many were struck by small behind-the-scenes details, such as her role in advising the president-elect on wording for his inaugural address and her careful oversight of White House preparations.

However, not every screening was well attended. In Washington, DC, the first showing at Regal Gallery Place was largely filled with journalists rather than paying viewers. And some international audiences were critical, describing the film as tone-deaf or drawing comparisons to celebrity lifestyle documentaries.

President Trump, attending the Kennedy Center premiere in Washington, dismissed suggestions that the $40 million paid by Amazon MGM Studios to acquire the documentary constituted any impropriety. “I think it’s really going to be very important. It shows life in the White House. It’s a big deal actually,” he said on the red carpet.

For many attendees, the draw was less about cinematic merit and more about showing support for the former first lady. “It’s about time they did something with that gorgeous first lady,” said 74-year-old Mary Eike of Los Angeles. “She’s beautiful, charming, strong – if I had a daughter, I’d want her to be just like her.”

Beyond the fan base, reactions to the film were largely subdued, with moments of laughter or quiet admiration. Highlights cited by viewers included Melania’s candid moments, like singing along to Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean during a car ride or suggesting “unifier” as a replacement word in her husband’s inaugural speech.

For some, the documentary offered emotional resonance. Erica Strahm, 52, a youth coordinator from Westfield, Indiana, said she was moved by Melania Trump’s reflections on her late mother. “I didn’t learn new things about the Trumps, but I loved seeing the behind-the-scenes moments you don’t normally get to see,” she said.

As audiences continue to file in across the country, the documentary’s reception underscores the polarised environment surrounding the former first family. Whether it earns awards or critical acclaim may be secondary to the loyal following it has already mobilised.

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