Critics slam, viewers praise: ‘Melania’ documentary on U.S. First Lady’s life

Melania, the new documentary about the U.S. First Lady Melania Trump that premiered Thursday, is drawing sharply contrasting reactions. Professional critics have slammed the film, giving it a 8% on Rotten Tomatoes, while ordinary viewers have embraced it, with audience ratings currently at 99%.

Directed by Brett Ratner, who previously worked on the Rush Hour franchise, the film chronicles Melania Trump’s life in the 20 days leading up to her husband’s 2025 inauguration.

It offers a glimpse into her routines, from attending public events and reviewing White House décor to consulting with her long-time stylist Hervé Pierre. The documentary also touches on personal struggles, including her grief over her mother’s death in January 2024.

Donald Trump appears sparingly, largely praising his wife in brief private moments.

Instead, the focus remains on Melania’s small circle of confidants, including France’s First Lady Brigitte Macron, with whom she discusses youth anxiety and social media, and other advisers who help plan the family’s move into the White House.

Contrasting reviews

Critics have dismissed the film as overly staged and slow.

Variety called it “so orchestrated and airbrushed that it barely rises to the level of a shameless infomercial,” while The Guardian described it as “pure, endless hell.”

The Atlantic criticised the pacing, noting that Ratner “seems desperate to find action, but there is none.”

By contrast, viewers have praised the film’s quieter moments.

Many described it as thoughtful and inspiring, highlighting Melania’s composure, attention to detail, and reflections on balancing her public duties with family life.

Marketing backlash

The documentary’s release has not been without controversy.

Critics questioned the timing, coinciding with nationwide protests following fatal federal agent shootings in Minneapolis, and scrutinised Amazon’s investment, reportedly $75 million for rights and marketing.

Some advertisements were vandalised, and review-bombing appeared on social media.

Despite the backlash, many viewers note that 'Melania' provides an unusual window into the First Lady’s private life and her navigation of the public spotlight.

“As First Lady, the real nobility is becoming stronger than the person I was yesterday,” she reflects in the film, offering a personal perspective that viewers, rather than critics, appear to value most.

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