The documentary film Melania has sparked controversy and criticism, not just for its perceived lack of quality, but for the ironic context of its release amidst President Donald Trump's ongoing assault on arts funding in the United States. Premiering to a lukewarm audience and earning a modest $7 million over its opening weekend, the film has been labelled as rubbish by many viewers, yet it has found an unlikely fan in the president himself.
A Sparse Screening and Critical Reception
At a screening in midtown Manhattan, the audience was predominantly composed of journalists, with only a handful of non-reporters in attendance. One attendee admitted to having a very low bar for compelling drama, while another was simply using a monthly movie pass. This lack of public interest was mirrored in photos of empty theaters circulating on social media, painting a bleak picture for the documentary's appeal.
Critics have been harsh in their assessment, pointing out that Melania Trump, as portrayed in the film, comes across as uninteresting and devoid of meaningful insights. The documentary fails to delve into any substantial aspects of her life, instead showcasing stilted conversations with staff about trivial matters like scarf fittings and hat sizes. Notably, Donald Trump makes few appearances, with one scene featuring a phone call where he speaks to Melania in his characteristic bombastic style, only to be met with disinterest and a quick hang-up.
Trump's Enthusiasm and the Kennedy Center Premiere
Ahead of its release, President Trump hailed Melania as "unforgettable" and "a must watch," claims that have been easily debunked by critics. The White House hosted the premiere at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, drawing a guestlist that included obscure social media figures, Florida socialites, and pardoned reality TV stars, alongside most of Trump's cabinet, likely attending out of obligation rather than genuine interest.
Despite Trump's professed love for the film, which he claims to have watched twice, his actions tell a different story. Just three days after the premiere, he announced the closure of the Kennedy Center for two years, citing a need to bring it to a "highest level of success, beauty, and grandeur." This move followed cancellations by performers in protest of Trump's policies and the center's rebranding to the Trump-Kennedy Center, which had led to plummeting ticket sales.
A Pattern of Arts Defunding
Trump's decision to shut down the Kennedy Center is part of a broader pattern of targeting the arts since taking office. He has cancelled over 1,000 grants to arts groups, cut funding to museums, and attempted to influence the tone of cultural institutions. Additionally, he has sued television networks and tried to cancel shows hosted by critics like Jimmy Kimmel, with recent threats against comedian Trevor Noah for a joke made at the Grammys.
Architecture has not been spared either, with Trump bulldozing the East Wing of the White House to build a large ballroom, prompting lawsuits from preservationists. Inside, he has adorned the Oval Office with gold and proposed building a gigantic arch nearby. This consistent approach raises questions about his appreciation for the arts, making his praise for the bland Melania documentary all the more ironic.
Conclusion: A Film as Bland as Trump's Policies
In the end, Melania stands as a testament to the disconnect between Trump's personal tastes and his public policies. While he champions a film that many find insipid and unengaging, he simultaneously dismantles arts funding and institutions. It seems that in a documentary as uninspiring as one of his well-done steaks, Trump has finally found a piece of art he doesn't want to destroy, even as he continues to defund the very sector that produces such works.
