The highly anticipated yet controversial documentary focusing on former First Lady Melania Trump is encountering unexpectedly "soft" ticket sales in the United Kingdom, according to recent reports. The film, which chronicles the twenty days leading up to the 2025 presidential inauguration, is scheduled to open in British cinemas this Friday.
Disappointing Box Office Figures Emerge
Initial data from UK cinema chains paints a bleak picture for the documentary's theatrical prospects. At the Vue cinema located in Islington, London, only three tickets have reportedly been sold for upcoming screenings. This remarkably low figure has sparked discussions within the industry about the public's appetite for the project.
Cinema Chain Faces Backlash
Compounding the commercial challenges, the Vue chain has confirmed receiving formal complaints from patrons regarding their decision to screen the Melania documentary. This public relations issue adds another layer of complexity to the film's troubled rollout in the British market.
International Release Strategy Under Scrutiny
The documentary is slated for release in nearly thirty countries worldwide, with numerous major UK cinema operators having scheduled screenings despite the early indicators of weak demand. Industry analysts are closely monitoring whether this pattern will repeat across other international territories.
American Market Shows Similar Trends
Early reports from the United States suggest the documentary is facing comparable challenges across the Atlantic. Initial screenings in cities including Jacksonville and Atlanta reportedly sold zero tickets, indicating the film's commercial struggles may not be confined to the UK market.
Streaming Alternative Awaited
Amazon, which invested a substantial $40 million (approximately £29 million) to launch the documentary globally, plans to make the film available on its Prime Video streaming platform. However, the technology giant has yet to confirm a specific release date for the digital version, leaving cinema-goers and streaming subscribers in suspense.
Viewing Advice for Interested Audiences
For those still wishing to see the documentary in cinemas, industry experts recommend checking local listings regularly, as screening schedules may be subject to last-minute changes given the current ticket sales performance. The film's distributors may adjust their theatrical strategy based on ongoing box office returns during the crucial opening weekend.