Story perspectives

Amazon's 'Melania' Film: $7M Opening Sparks Review Controversy

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Amazon released the documentary 'Melania,' which covers Melania Trump in the 20 days before U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.
The film grossed approximately $7 million in its opening weekend, against a $75 million production budget.
Critics rated the film 5% on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences scored 99%, raising questions about review manipulation.
In the United Kingdom, the film debuted at No. 29 with earnings of £32,974.

History

Historical Context

The Watergate scandal in 1972 led to President Richard Nixon's resignation and the establishment of the Federal Election Commission, which oversees campaign finance. This historical backdrop highlights ongoing concerns about media manipulation, as seen in the polarized reception of Amazon's 2026 documentary 'Melania,' which grossed $9.5 million against a $40 million budget, reflecting debates on truth in political narratives.

1 of 2

Story summary

Amazon released the documentary 'Melania,' which covers Melania Trump in the 20 days before U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.
The film grossed approximately $7 million in its opening weekend, against a $75 million production budget.
Critics rated the film 5% on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences scored 99%, raising questions about review manipulation.
In the United Kingdom, the film debuted at No. 29 with earnings of £32,974.

1 / 2