Meghan Markle’s Sundance Premiere Struggles to Sell Out

A recent screening of “Cookie Queens,” a documentary produced by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, did not achieve a full house at the Sundance Film Festival. Despite the couple’s presence, approximately 150 seats on the balcony remained empty as the film started. As the screening progressed, the unoccupied seats diminished to around 60 when waitlisted attendees were permitted to fill originally reserved spots.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Attend Sundance Premiere

The Sundance premiere took place at the Eccles Theatre. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Prince Harry posed alongside filmmaker Alysa Nahmias and young cast members from the documentary. Notably, the couple did not appear in the film itself.

Attendance Issues Highlighted

Despite the royal couple’s attendance, there was a noticeable lack of interest among the high-tier festivalgoers, many of whom possess exclusive badges costing approximately $7,000. The turnout for the “Cookie Queens” screening was significantly lower compared to other events throughout the festival.

• Olivia Wilde’s film “The Invite,” featuring stars such as Seth Rogen, Penelope Cruz, and Edward Norton, attracted a full audience, with 100 people turned away due to lack of seating.
• A midnight screening of the horror film “Buddy,” starring Cristin Milioti and Topher Grace, also oversold, leaving around 40 ticket holders without seats.

Documentary Overview and Reception

Despite the attendance issues, “Cookie Queens” received a warm response from the audience present. The documentary chronicles the challenges and successes faced by Girl Scouts across the United States as they strive to sell the most boxes of cookies.

Before the film began, Meghan Markle spoke to the audience, expressing gratitude for their early morning attendance. She highlighted the couple’s pride in supporting the project. “We are so proud and privileged to support and uplift Cookie Queens,” she said.

Future Prospects for Archewell Productions

This premiere occurred amid challenges for the couple’s production company, Archewell, which was established in 2020. Their previous lifestyle series, “With Love, Meghan,” was not renewed for a third season, with a diminished staff remaining in the production outfit.

This event signals a potential shift in the public’s interest in projects involving the couple, underscoring the challenges they now face in the entertainment industry.