Stephen Colbert Highlights ‘Melania’ Budget Impressiveness, But It’s Under 10%
A recent documentary titled “Melania: Twenty Days to History” has captured significant attention by reportedly earning $7 million at the box office, surpassing initial projections. Experts had anticipated earnings between $1 million and $5 million. This unexpected financial success became a topic of discussion for late-night talk show hosts Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel during their respective programs.
Stephen Colbert’s Take on the ‘Melania’ Budget Impressiveness
On “The Late Show,” Stephen Colbert provided context to the box office figure. He emphasized that while $7 million may appear impressive initially, it represents less than 10% of the estimated $75 million invested by Amazon for the documentary. This budget included payments to Melania Trump, reportedly totaling at least $28 million.
Colbert quipped, “That’s enough cash to put a smile on your face … if that were physically possible,” highlighting the disparities in perceived value versus actual expense. In a humorous twist, he featured a Melania Trump impersonator who attempted to explain the documentary.
Kimmel’s Insights and Critiques
Meanwhile, on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” Jimmy Kimmel brought attention to the film’s Rotten Tomatoes rating. He noted that the documentary has achieved a mere 5% score from critics, which is shockingly one percent lower than the infamous 2003 film “Gigli.”
In a surprising contrast, Kimmel pointed out that the audience score stands at an impressive 99%, surpassing that of “The Godfather.” He humorously remarked that Donald J. Corleone likely had nothing to do with this audience approval.
Financial Jokes and Commentary
Kimmel humorously suggested that Amazon’s claim of achieving the best nonmusical documentary opening in 14 years could be misinterpreted. He stated, “I think that is a fancy way of saying it only lost tens of millions of dollars.” Additionally, he raised suspicions regarding the ticket sales, joking that Republican groups might have purchased bulk tickets to inflate the numbers.
In a light-hearted manner, Kimmel called for an investigation: “Send in Tulsi Gabbard and the FBI. Seize the ticket machines, the popcorn buckets, the box-office receipts at every multiplex in America.” He also criticized Amazon’s owner, Jeff Bezos, for significant staff layoffs at The Washington Post following the funding of the “Melania” documentary.
Conclusion
The reception of “Melania: Twenty Days to History” continues to spark conversation, with mixed reviews and a vast gap between critical and audience reception. As late-night hosts dissect the documentary’s financial and critical performance, it reflects broader themes of media portrayal and audience engagement.
