It seems not every White House struggle pans out to be a big buck magnet. Perhaps it is the sombre drama or the impending re-entry in the office, but the theatres do not seem as sold to Melania.

Along with the 47th president, the First Lady returned to the office on January 20, 2025. Melania explores 20 days before the onset of exactly that. It is set to release on January 30, 2026 and across about 1,500 domestic theatres.

For its opening weekend, the creators of the film are vying for a $3 million to $5 million bag for its opening weekend, as per Variety. What creates a shockwave in place of Melania herself is the $40 million budget that has been invested in its making.

Amazon MGM, which is the one bringing Melania to screens, is also known to have shelled out an additional $35 million on the documentary's marketing. In comparison, Sam Raimi's upcoming Send Help, which is also a $40 million number, is aiming for at least $14 million to $17 million at its opening, as per Variety.

For Melania to set a foot so shaky, the scheme could perhaps be not as grand, but that is not the case either.

What is Melania about?

The documentary is set right before the inauguration of the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump. Melania focuses on the first lady, Melania Trump's days before the event, instead.

The apparent attempts to shift focus from the current ongoings in the country, particularly in Minneapolis, have given some, if not any, attention to the documentary. Brett Ratner, of X-Men: The Last Stand and Rush Hour, sidelined post assault allegations, has helmed Melania.

Melania is stepping closer to release, albeit in shaky shoes. However, the overall pressure is divided among other potentially well-performing numbers, as the theatres prepare for their opening weekends.

What do you think of Melania's small opening weekend goals? Let us know in the comments below!

Written by

Adiba Nizami

Edited by

Hriddhi Maitra