The cinematic spotlight has shifted dramatically this past weekend, with Michelle Obama’s 2020 documentary, *Becoming*, witnessing an astonishing 13,000 per cent increase in viewership, coinciding with the theatrical release of Melania Trump’s self-titled film. According to data from Luminate, the surge in interest saw over 47.5 million minutes of *Becoming* streamed by U.S. Netflix users, a sharp rise from just 354,000 minutes the prior weekend.
The Numbers Behind the Surge
The release of Melania Trump’s film, which hit theatres on January 29, has undeniably sparked curiosity in her predecessor’s documentary. The numbers are staggering: *Becoming* was streamed more than 480,000 times based on its run time, a clear indication that the narrative surrounding Melania’s film has prompted viewers to revisit Michelle Obama’s account of her life and experiences.
While *Melania* achieved the highest opening weekend for a non-fiction film in a decade, raking in $7 million at the box office, it has met with widespread critical disapproval. Despite this, the film is unlikely to recover the hefty $40 million investment made by Amazon MGM, which also allocated an additional $35 million for marketing.
A Tale of Two First Ladies
*Becoming* offers an intimate portrayal of Michelle Obama during her book tour for her best-selling memoir, providing insights into her upbringing in Chicago, her relationship with her late father, and the journey that led her to become First Lady. It resonates with audiences through its authentic depiction of her life’s challenges and triumphs.
Conversely, *Melania* focuses on the days leading up to Donald Trump’s second inauguration, showcasing Melania’s interactions with stylists, interior designers, and political allies. The film marks the return of director Brett Ratner, who has faced allegations of sexual misconduct but continues to deny any wrongdoing. Notably, a significant number of crew members reportedly requested their names be withdrawn from the film’s credits, highlighting the controversial nature of the project.
Critical Reception
Critical reception for *Melania* has been overwhelmingly negative. One review from *The Independent* described the film as “a staged version of herself,” blurring the lines between reality and scripted fiction. Critics have pointed out that it lacks the depth and authenticity that characterises Michelle Obama’s documentary, which is grounded in genuine experiences and reflections.
In a somewhat dismissive tone, Donald Trump responded to concerns about the film’s ticket sales, asserting that the theatre market has changed drastically post-Covid but expressing confidence in the film’s future on streaming platforms.
Why it Matters
The juxtaposition of these two documentaries highlights not only the contrasting legacies of the two First Ladies but also reflects broader societal themes about authenticity and representation in media. As audiences engage with these narratives, the spike in viewership for *Becoming* serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of genuine storytelling, especially in a landscape increasingly dominated by curated images and constructed realities. In a time when public discourse is often clouded by division, revisiting Michelle Obama’s story may provide a much-needed perspective on resilience and empowerment.