Katie Miller Defends ‘Melania’ from Rotten Tomatoes Critics
Katie Miller has publicly criticized Hollywood’s response to the documentary “Melania” following its controversial reception on Rotten Tomatoes. This comes after the platform confirmed that the film’s 99% audience rating was legitimate, despite a dismal 8% rating from critics. Miller expressed her views via X, claiming that the disparity between audience approval and critical reception indicates a clear disconnect between true American sentiments and Hollywood opinions.
Katie Miller Defends ‘Melania’ Amid Criticism
Miller, associated with MAGA branding, argued that the success of “Melania” reflects a demand for films that resonate with the values of the American public. The documentary, which chronicles the 20 days leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration, received positive feedback from viewers, primarily older white women. According to NPR statistics, the audience demographics revealed that 75% of viewers were white, 70% were women, and 72% were aged 55 and over.
Box Office Performance and Challenges
Despite its strong audience score, “Melania” faced hurdles at the box office. It grossed just over $7 million in its opening weekend, a noteworthy figure for a documentary. However, the film has a long way to go to recover its production budget of $75 million set by Amazon-MGM Studios.
Concerns About Audience Authenticity
There have been allegations regarding the authenticity of ticket sales. With critics describing the film as a vanity project lacking substance, concerns arose over possible bulk ticket purchases aimed at inflating audience numbers. Versant, the parent company of Rotten Tomatoes, defended the film by assuring that audience reviews indicated real ticket buyers. “There has been no bot manipulation,” they stated.
- Initial audience rating: 99% on Rotten Tomatoes
- Critics’ rating: 8% on Tomatometer
- Opening weekend gross: $7 million
- Production budget: $75 million
- Audience demographics: 75% white, 70% women, 72% aged 55+
Controversial Promotional Tactics
Adding to the film’s controversies, reports surfaced of military personnel being pressured into purchasing tickets for “Melania.” Mikey Weinstein, president of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, stated that service members felt obligated for compliance, contrasting the usual freedom civilians possess. Additionally, viral Craigslist ads emerged, offering free tickets and even cash incentives for viewers.
As the discussions around “Melania” continue, the film remains a focal point for contrasting opinions on artistic expression and demographic interests in American cinema.
