Comedians Torch “Melania” Docu as “Lifeless” Lullaby for Trump

First lady Melania Trump’s documentary Melania received critical reviews despite exceeding expectations at the box office.

The film allegedly recorded an estimated $7 million opening weekend. (Photo: Melania Trump Facebook) 

Now, late-night television is weighing in. The film reveals little about her and leans heavily on picturesque shots and an upbeat soundtrack.

It was directed by Brett Ratner, who was accused of sexual harassment in 2017, as was Donald Trump, Kinsey Crowley reported for the Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA Today Network.

Variety’s film critic called the documentary “a piece of state-sanctioned propaganda out of 1960s Communist China.”

The Atlantic said that “Ratner seems desperate to find action, but there is none.”

Still, the film recorded an estimated $7 million opening weekend. On The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the host brought in some backup to spoof Trump’s demeanor.

In the Feb. 4 show, actress Laura Benanti appeared as the first lady, and Colbert pressed her on what the movie is about, alluding to comments that it isn’t a documentary but something more artistic.

“It’s about $28 million in my pocket, cha-chingaaaa!” Benanti said in character. “Just like me, it is a very creepy mystery.”

In one scene, Ratner and Trump are in a car together, where she tells him “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson is her favorite song, and they sing along. Colbert asked Benanti why it is her favorite.

“Let’s just say it brings a smile to my face every time I look at Eric and think, ‘the kid is not my son,’” she said as she moonwalked off camera.

Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue on Melania occurred the same day sweeping layoffs hit The Washington Post.

“Jeff Bezos, who paid for that garbage, just laid off hundreds of journalists at The Washington Post,” Kimmel said. “I guess he spent all the budget on Melania. Well done, Jeff.”

Seth Meyers also took a few swipes at Melania, saying: “It’s already getting some award buzz for least animated feature.”

He also panned the docu’s screening at the White House. “Man, they are really testing his ability to stay awake,” he said. “‘Sir, would you like to sit in the dark and watch a movie about your wife? Sir? He’s already out.’”

Jay Stahl, Brian Truitt, and Kate Perez also reported for USA Today.