What's Happening?
The documentary 'Melania,' directed by Brett Ratner, has achieved significant commercial success upon its release, boasting the highest opening weekend for a documentary in the past decade, excluding concert films. The film, which follows First Lady Melania Trump in the days leading up to President Trump's second inauguration, earned $2.9 million on its opening day and is projected to gross $8.1 million by the end of the weekend. Despite its commercial success and an 'A' CinemaScore from audiences, the documentary has received a poor critical reception, with a 6% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics, including Variety's Owen Gleiberman, have described the film as overly propagandistic, likening it to state-sanctioned media from 1960s Communist
China. The film's release marks Brett Ratner's return to directing after a hiatus following sexual assault allegations in 2017.
Why It's Important?
The documentary's success highlights the continued public interest in the Trump family and their influence on American culture and politics. The stark contrast between audience and critic scores underscores the polarized views surrounding the Trump administration and its associated figures. The film's financial performance could encourage more politically themed documentaries, especially those focusing on high-profile figures. Additionally, Brett Ratner's return to directing with this project may signal a potential comeback in Hollywood, despite his controversial past. The film's performance could also impact Amazon MGM's future investment strategies in politically charged content.
What's Next?
As the documentary continues to perform well at the box office, it may prompt further discussions about the role of media in shaping public perceptions of political figures. The success of 'Melania' could lead to more projects focusing on the Trump family, potentially influencing the political landscape as the 2028 election approaches. Brett Ratner's involvement in future projects, such as 'Rush Hour 4,' may also be scrutinized in light of his past allegations, affecting his career trajectory and the reception of his work.
