NEW YORK: A documentary centred on former US First Lady Melania Trump is facing a slow start ahead of its scheduled January 30 release, with advance ticket sales reported at near-zero levels in major markets including New York and London.
Industry tracking data shows several cinemas in both cities have recorded little to no pre-bookings for opening-day screenings, despite the project carrying an estimated production and marketing budget of around $75 million.
The film reportedly covers events leading up to Donald Trump’s inauguration and offers a personal account of Melania Trump’s public and private life. US media outlets have said Amazon acquired distribution rights for about $40 million, with an additional $35 million spent on promotion and release activities.
According to reports, Melania Trump received a separate fee for participating in the project.
Promotional material describes the documentary as an inside look at her role in business initiatives, charitable work and family life, including efforts linked to the White House’s East Wing.
Despite promotion on Donald Trump’s social media platforms, early audience interest appears limited. Social media users have shared images of largely empty theatres, while box office analysts estimate opening-week revenues could remain modest.
Several crew members quoted by US media anonymously described internal concerns over the film’s direction, with some requesting removal of their names from the credits.
The documentary’s performance is being closely watched as it arrives during an already charged political climate in the United States.
