Melania Trump’s new documentary, titled *Melania*, premiered on January 30, 2025, following a black carpet event at the recently renamed Trump-Kennedy Center. Acquired by Amazon MGM Studios for an estimated $40 million, the film focuses on the 20 days leading up to the inauguration of her husband, President Donald Trump, as the 47th president of the United States.
In a statement prior to the film’s release, Melania Trump described the documentary as a unique opportunity for audiences to gain insight into her life during a pivotal moment. “History is set in motion during the 20 days of my life prior to the U.S. Presidential Inauguration,” she stated. “For the first time, global audiences are invited into theaters to witness this pivotal chapter unfold — a private, unfiltered look as I navigate family, business, and philanthropy on my remarkable journey to becoming First Lady of the United States of America.”
Donald Trump, who attended the premiere, expressed his enthusiasm for the film. “I loved it. I thought it was really great,” he told reporters. “It really brings back a glamour that you just don’t see anymore. Our country could use a little bit of that.”
Critics, however, have not been as kind. The documentary currently holds a rating of 9 percent from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, while the audience score remains unavailable due to an insufficient number of verified reviews on its opening day. The film has received a mixed bag of reviews from various outlets.
Critical Reception of *Melania*
Notable film critics have voiced strong opinions about *Melania*. *Variety* characterized the film as “a portrait of the First Lady of the United States,” but criticized it for being excessively orchestrated and lacking genuine engagement. “It barely rises to the level of a shameless infomercial,” the review stated. “There’s no drama to it. It should have been called Day of the Living Tradwife.”
Similarly, *The Hollywood Reporter* described the film as an “expensive propaganda doc” that, while beautifully produced, lacks substance. Other publications have rated the film poorly, with both *The Independent* and *The Guardian* awarding it only one out of five stars. In contrast, the *London Evening Standard* offered a more favorable perspective, acknowledging the film as Melania’s “curated take on herself,” and praising her appearance at 55 years old.
Audience reactions on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes reveal a more varied response. One viewer described the documentary as “an absolutely delightful peek behind the scenes of the days before, during, and after the inauguration,” praising the cinematography and emotional moments captured. Another viewer shared similar sentiments, highlighting the film’s engaging visuals and soundtrack. However, a more critical review labeled the documentary a “high-gloss vanity mirror” that lacks depth and intrigue.
Melania Trump and Director Brett Ratner’s Perspectives
In a recent email exchange with *The Hollywood Reporter*, Melania Trump emphasized the importance of showcasing the complexities involved in transitioning from a private citizen to First Lady. “I believe the Americans and people all over the world should witness the incredible amount of planning and work required when shifting from private citizen to First Lady,” she remarked. “I take pride in every detail.”
Director Brett Ratner praised Melania Trump for her vision throughout the filmmaking process. “She had a theatrical, big-screen vision for the film right from the start,” he noted. “Melania didn’t want a documentary. She didn’t want talking heads. She said, ‘Brett, don’t hold back.’”
As audiences continue to form opinions on the documentary, the reception reflects a broader conversation about the portrayal of public figures in media. Whether *Melania* succeeds in its objectives or falls short remains a topic of considerable debate among critics and viewers alike.
