Melania Trump’s big-budget documentary Melania brought in $7.04 million at the box office in its opening weekend.
The total is being described as the largest opening weekend for a nonfiction film in the past decade, surpassing the prior benchmark set by 2023’s After Death, which debuted at $5 million.
Before release, industry forecasts had been more modest, with estimates generally landing in the $3 million to $5 million range.
The film premiered at the newly rebranded Kennedy Center on Thursday, Jan. 29, ahead of its global theatrical release on Friday, Jan. 30.
Backed by a reported $40 million deal with Amazon MGM Studios and a $35 million marketing campaign, the documentary offers selective glimpses into the first lady’s life in the weeks leading up to President Donald Trump’s second inauguration in January 2025.
The project also marks director Brett Ratner’s return to the big screen after multiple women accused him of sexual misconduct during the #MeToo movement; no criminal charges were filed.
Melania Trump, 55, who served as an executive producer on the film, hosted a private first screening at the White House on Saturday, Jan. 24, describing it as “a historic moment.” The screening took place as protests were unfolding in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Border Patrol.
“I am deeply humbled to have been surrounded by an inspiring room of friends, family, and cultural iconoclasts at the White House last night. Each of these individuals brought their unique vision to the world, making a lasting impression,” she wrote in a Jan. 25 post on X.
“Our personal stories endure time and serve as a reminder of our mutual obligation to one another. It was an honor to present my new film, MELANIA, ahead of its global launch,” she added.
Even with its strong debut, some projections ahead of release suggested the opening weekend would be significantly smaller than the film’s reported costs. One market research estimate pointed to a $5 million start, while another industry forecast predicted a $1 million to $2 million debut.
The documentary’s release may also be a launching point for the first lady’s broader ambitions in entertainment. In November, she posted a brief video on X announcing a new production company called Muse Films.
Marc Beckman, described as her senior adviser and agent, has said the company plans to continue producing lifestyle-focused film and television projects after Melania, targeting themes geared toward female audiences.
“Think fashion, art, music, sports and entertainment,” Beckman said, along with “areas like technology, family, health and wellness.”
