To no one’s surprise, ‘Melania’ breaks a negative record that had lasted almost 30 years

The documentary “Melania” has premiered in theaters and has already attracted a surprisingly engaged audience. Despite harsh reviews from critics, viewers have embraced the film, helping it set a 27-year-old record for the largest-ever gap between critics’ scores and audience ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, the self-proclaimed “most trusted and recognized source of movie and TV reviews” in the world.

Record-breaking rating split

Recent examples of similar discrepancies include “Transformers,” which scored 57% with critics but 85% with audiences, and “Captain Marvel,” which was more popular with critics (79%) than viewers (45%). Yet nothing compares to “The Chosen” (1999), starring Willem Dafoe and Norman Reedus, which critics savaged at 26% while audiences loved it with 91%.

“Melania” has now set a new benchmark. Critics have been overwhelmingly harsh, giving the film a dismal 10%, while audiences have rallied behind the former first lady, awarding it a remarkable 99%. “She is the epitome of elegance,” reads one user review. “She does so much for kids and is always busy,” says another.

Opening weekend box office performance

Overall, the people who have gone to theaters, which is more than expected, have loved the film. With a $75 million budget, “Melania” earned $7 million in its opening weekend. As is often the case, that figure is expected to drop significantly in the second week.

What is “Melania” about?

The surprisingly strong audience reception may reflect a growing interest in documentaries shown in theaters.

According to the official synopsis: “Melania” “offers unprecedented access to the 20 days leading up to the 2025 presidential inauguration through the eyes of the first lady. The film explores Melania Trump’s world as she organizes inauguration plans, navigates the complexities of moving into the White House, and relocates her family back to the nation’s capital. With exclusive footage capturing critical meetings, private conversations, and never-before-seen locations, ‘Melania’ showcases her return to one of the world’s most high-profile roles.”

“Melania” is now available in theaters.

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