Amazon MGM Faces Massive Losses Following Critical Failure of Ratner's Melania Documentary
Director Brett Ratner’s attempted cinematic comeback has resulted in a financial and critical disaster following the January 30 release of Melania, the documentary has grossed only $7 million despite a record-breaking acquisition cost. Major publications including USA Today have labeled the film emotionally disconnected, they cite its lack of substance and overt political propaganda as primary failures.
Controversial Career Reboot Stalls Amid Record Streaming Deal
The release marks Ratner's first significant directorial effort since 2017, his career had effectively halted following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct which he denied. Amazon MGM Studios made headlines by purchasing the rights for $40 million, this figure represents the highest sum ever paid for a documentary feature. The studio invested an additional $35 million in promotional marketing, industry analysts view this expenditure as a high-risk gamble on a polarized political figure. The production process itself raised ethical questions regarding journalistic standards, Melania Trump retained full editorial control over the final cut, this arrangement effectively removed objective oversight from the project.
Critics Slam Expensive Production for Shallow Narrative and Dull Tone
Critical reception has proved overwhelmingly hostile toward the $40 million production, reviewers describe the film as a tedious exercise in vanity rather than a genuine biographical work. USA Today critic Brian Truitt noted a distinct "emotional disconnect" throughout the runtime, the subject fails to address the camera directly or display visible reaction to significant events like California wildfires. The film depicts the 20 days leading up to a hypothetical second inauguration for Donald Trump, yet critics argue it lacks dramatic tension or narrative arc.
Box Office Returns Indicate Widespread Audience Apathy
Financial performance mirrors the critical drubbing, the film has earned approximately $7 million against its massive acquisition and marketing budget. Viewers have largely ignored the release despite the heavy advertising push, the narrative focuses heavily on superficial elements such as high fashion rather than political substance. Critics highlighted the cinematography's repetitive focus on footwear, some reviews described the camera work as having a "foot fetish" quality that detracted from any potential storytelling.
Studio Absorbs Financial Hit as Director Struggles for Relevance
Amazon MGM Studios faces a substantial write-down on the project, the total investment exceeds $75 million when accounting for acquisition and advertising costs. This commercial failure likely ends Ratner’s bid to re-enter mainstream filmmaking, his association with a widely panned propaganda piece reinforces his isolation from Hollywood’s creative core. The film also fails to rehabilitate the former First Lady’s public image, the content highlights a perceived lack of personality rather than offering new insights.
Industry experts suggest this failure serves as a warning for streaming giants, they may reconsider funding politically charged documentaries where subjects hold creative veto power.
