Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has stirred conversation over the opening weekend of the new Melania Trump film, suggesting that the movie’s ticket sales may have been artificially inflated through bulk purchases.
Skepticism Sparked by Industry Post
The comedian raised the theory during his Wednesday monologue, referencing a Substack post by former IndieWire editor Tom Brueggemann, later covered by Puck.
Kimmel highlighted what many viewers noticed: despite reports of $7 million in ticket sales over the first weekend, many theaters appeared largely empty leading up to the release.
Citing Historical Precedent
Kimmel pointed out that this wouldn’t be the first time political figures boosted sales artificially.
He reminded viewers that back in 2019, the Republican National Committee purchased $100,000 worth of Don Jr.’s book to include in swag bags, helping it land on the New York Times bestseller list.
Alleged Bulk Ticket Distribution
According to “industry sources” referenced in Brueggemann’s post, blocks of Melania movie tickets may have been purchased and distributed to senior citizen homes, Republican activists, and other groups to artificially fill theaters.
Kimmel leaned into the humor of the idea, imagining seniors receiving heart pills alongside free movie tickets, and quipped that Republican activists and senior citizens were “really the same thing.”
Congregants in Costumes and Audience Observations
Kimmel acknowledged that some people genuinely attended the film, noting a group of women at Dr. Robert Jeffress’s Dallas Megachurch dressed in outfits resembling Melania’s iconic second inauguration dress—a centerpiece of the movie.
He teased them as “dumb as a rockettes,” while highlighting their self-designation as “church ladies.”
The host also joked about the black-and-white attire, comparing it to the heavily redacted pages of the so-called Epstein files.
Rotten Tomatoes and Box Office Commentary
The Amazon-MGM production reportedly cost $75 million but earned only a 5 percent critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, a figure Kimmel compared humorously to the famously panned “Gigli.”
By contrast, the movie’s audience score reportedly sat at 99 percent, which Kimmel quipped was “1 percent higher than The Godfather,” jokingly invoking a mafia comparison.
He also poked fun at Amazon owner Jeff Bezos, suggesting he was footing the bill for “that garbage,” and made a satirical reference to former DNI Tulsi Gabbard in relation to political theatrics.
Industry Response and Box Office Reality
Despite the skepticism, Amazon MGM Studios’ chief of domestic distribution, Kevin Wilson, described the opening as a “strong start” with positive audience reception, exceeding expectations.
The film earned $7 million on its opening weekend after premiering January 29.
Box office experts, including Brueggemann, had initially projected a more modest $1–5 million take, expecting a potential flop.
Amazon, AMC, and Regal cinemas reported no unusual bulk ticket purchases during the first week, leaving the alleged “rigging” unverified.
Trump Praises Film and Audience Reaction
Donald Trump, who reportedly watched the film twice in one week, praised Melania’s performance and the audience response at the Kennedy Center, calling the movie a “must see” and encouraging supporters to attend.
The Debate Continues
While Kimmel’s commentary mixes humor with political critique, the discussion about bulk ticket purchases and audience authenticity highlights ongoing questions about the interplay between politics, media, and Hollywood marketing strategies.
