Brett Ratner's Melania ignites controversy ahead of divisive release
Brett Ratner's new film Melania has sparked fierce debate before its wide release. The controversial project marks the director's return after years away from filmmaking. Social media buzzes with claims of empty theatres, while supporters and critics clash over its message.
The film arrives six years after Ratner faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. In 2017, the Los Angeles Times documented accusations from seven women, including actress Olivia Munn, who claimed he masturbated in front of her during a 2010 script reading at his home. Other accusers like Eri Sasaki, Jaime Ray Newman, and Natasha Henstridge came forward, along with Mannara Chopra in separate media reports. Ratner denied the claims but stepped away from Warner Bros. projects at the time.
Amazon-MGM acquired the rights to Melania for $40 million and spent an additional $35 million on marketing. Despite this, images of sparsely attended screenings have spread online. Producer Marc Beckman countered these claims by pointing to 'very positive real numbers' at the box office.
The premiere drew attention when former US President Donald Trump attended, calling the film 'a big deal' and 'about my wife'. Melania Trump also appeared, posing in a black Dolce & Gabbana outfit. Industry analysts now predict opening weekend earnings of $3 to $5 million.
Reactions to Melania remain deeply divided. Supporters praise it as a bold challenge to mainstream media narratives. Critics, however, dismiss it as crude propaganda, mocking its tone and intent.
Melania enters cinemas amid sharp political and cultural divisions. Its box office performance will test whether controversy translates into ticket sales. For Ratner, the film's reception could shape his future in an industry he once dominated.
