Melania Trump’s documentary, titled *Melania*, premiered on January 30, 2025, following a black carpet event at the newly named Trump-Kennedy Center. Acquired by Amazon MGM Studios in a reported deal worth $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 regarding the film, Melania Trump emphasized the significance of this period. “History is set in motion during the 20 days of my life prior to the U.S. Presidential Inauguration,” the former First Lady reflected in December 2025. “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.”
While Donald Trump expressed his admiration for the film at its premiere, stating, “I loved it. I thought it was really great,” the critical response has been largely negative.
Critics Weigh In
The documentary currently holds a 9 percent rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, with an uncertain audience score due to a lack of verified reviews on its opening day. Critics who previewed the film described it as lacking depth and authenticity. According to *Variety*, “Melania is a documentary that never comes to life. It’s so orchestrated and airbrushed and stage-managed that it barely rises to the level of a shameless infomercial.”
*The Hollywood Reporter* characterized the film as an “expensive propaganda doc” that, despite its glossy presentation, fails to engage viewers. Other outlets, such as *The Independent* and *The Guardian*, rated the film poorly, while the *London Evening Standard* offered a slightly more favorable review, noting, “If you take this film for what it is, Melania’s own, curated take on herself… there’s human warmth there under the cheekbones and the slanting feline eyes.”
Audience Reactions
Despite the critical backlash, some viewers on Rotten Tomatoes offered a contrasting perspective. One user described it as “an absolutely delightful peek behind the scenes of the days before, during, and after the inauguration,” while another praised the cinematography and emotional moments captured in the film.
However, some viewers were more critical, suggesting that the documentary resembles a “high-gloss vanity mirror” with no real insight or tension.
Melania Trump responded to questions via email to *The Hollywood Reporter*, expressing her desire for audiences to understand the extensive planning involved in transitioning from a private citizen to First Lady. “I take pride in every detail,” she stated.
Brett Ratner, the film’s director, praised Melania Trump for her vision, stating, “She had a theatrical, big-screen vision for the film right from the start.” He noted that she wanted a raw and unfiltered approach, saying, “Melania didn’t want talking heads. She said, ‘Brett, don’t hold back.’”
As the film continues to garner attention, it remains to be seen how audience and critical reception will evolve in the coming days.
