New Melania Documentary Divides Audiences on Opening Day
The new documentary Melania has drawn mixed reactions on its opening day. While some cinemas saw strong turnout from supporters, others remained nearly empty. The film explores the life of former first lady Melania Trump, sparking varied responses from viewers.
In Indianapolis, around 100 people—mostly older women—attended the first screening. Many were Trump supporters who bought tickets to show backing for the first family. Eva Hackett, one attendee, noted the film's portrayal of the demanding work behind the first lady's role.
In Carmel, a group of about 20 politically active women also purchased tickets for the opening. Marla Ailor, a local official who attended President Trump's inauguration, praised the documentary for highlighting the pressures Melania Trump faced. She recalled the long day of the inauguration and how the film reflected similar challenges.
Kenny Cormack, another viewer, was impressed by Melania Trump's influence on White House decorations. Mary Eike, a Trump supporter, admired how the former first lady maintained her appearance, calling her 'drop dead gorgeous' even after 22 hours in heels.
Yet not all screenings were well attended. Some theatres reported sparse audiences, and critics have questioned whether the multi-million-dollar production had hidden motives. Meanwhile, South Africa's largest film distributor pulled the documentary just before its planned release, though no official reason was given.
The documentary's reception has been uneven, with some audiences showing strong interest while others stayed away. No data suggests a shift in public perception of Melania Trump following its release. The film remains a polarising topic among viewers and critics alike.
