Amazon’s documentary on Melania Trump has exceeded box office expectations, raking in $7 million during its opening weekend—the strongest debut for any documentary in over a decade. However, the film’s production cost of $40 million and promotional budget of $35 million raised eyebrows, particularly in light of Amazon’s recent corporate layoffs affecting 16,000 jobs.

The documentary, which chronicles Melania Trump’s preparations to return to the White House in early 2025, faced tough competition. It was ultimately eclipsed by two horror films but managed to outperform the action movie *Shelter*.

Targeting older conservative audiences, the film emphasized themes aligned with her husband Donald Trump’s supporters—patriotism, Christianity, and family values. It attracted a significant audience, with women over 55 comprising 72% of the opening-day viewers.

Research firm EntTelligence reported that rural theaters contributed approximately 46% of the opening weekend box office, with Republican counties making up about 53% of ticket sales. Top-performing states included conservative strongholds like Florida and Texas.

Kevin Wilson, head of Amazon MGM Studios’ domestic theatrical distribution, expressed optimism, stating, “We are very encouraged by the strong start and positive audience response,” indicating that initial box office results surpassed expectations.

Despite its commercial success, *Melania* has received overwhelmingly negative critical reviews. Critics have labeled it “dispiriting” and “unrevealing,” questioning its value as a substantive documentary. Some reviews branded it as “expensive propaganda,” highlighting its overtly favorable portrayal of its subject.

Donald Trump claimed he “wasn’t involved” in the negotiations that led to the film’s significant $75 million price tag. Meanwhile, Melania Trump noted that the producers approached various distributors, with Amazon ultimately providing the best opportunity for a global theatrical release.

Director Brett Ratner, whose career has suffered following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, addressed the notion of a quid pro quo regarding the film. He defended the project’s budget as a means to create a high-quality production, asserting, “This wasn’t about corruption. Melania only cared about one thing—making a great movie for audiences.”

On the same day the documentary premiered, Ratner was notably featured in photos released by Trump’s Justice Department related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. While many of those pictured alongside Epstein have denied any wrongdoing, the association has sparked additional scrutiny.