In an all too familiar story that mirrors recent political landscapes, a new movie about Melania Trump is putting a spotlight on the ever-growing divide between elite critics and everyday American audiences. This tale of split approval ratings is akin to the tale of two cities—or maybe it’s more like two movie theaters. While critics have given the film a comically low 11% approval rating, real people, the kind who actually get up and pay for a movie ticket, have given it a whopping 99% thumbs-up. It’s quite the popcorn-worthy drama in itself, showing, once again, that the taste of the elite is dramatically different from that of the average American.
The disparity in approval between critics and the audience is less about the film’s cinematic qualities and more about a cultural flashpoint. Just like in politics, where the same groups rally around President Trump despite elite opposition, viewers flock to see Melania’s story, defying the sneering disapproval of the critic class. It’s a reflection of our times—a divided mood where the opinions of media elites often seem out of touch with the general public. It sounds all too familiar, doesn’t it? Critics are still shocked at why people love what they love.
Colleagues and cinephiles with believed fidelity to good taste, like the network’s dear Stu Vney, have joined the ranks praising the film. Not only did he enjoy it, but he was deeply impressed by the detailed attention given to Melania’s sense of fashion – something those “in the know” are perhaps too quick to dismiss. This isn’t just a dress-up show; it’s a portrayal of a woman who knows exactly what she wants and how she intends to achieve it, right down to the threads on the hemline. It turns out that watching someone take charge with precision is far more captivating than some critics would admit.
Meanwhile, one can’t help but chuckle when considering how this movie, much like the divisive political landscape it emerges from, prompts folks to passionately pick a side. The elites are left scratching their heads, wondering if their disdain has missed the mark. Their leanings often lead to laughably low scores, possibly because they’re still stuck in an old narrative loop, confusing their taste for gospel truth. This is where the bite of irony suits well—a tale of elites judging with standards that aren’t exactly resonating with reality.
In a world where people so often feel their voices aren’t heard, this surge of audience support acts as a loud, clear reminder—just as in elections—that regular voices can’t be muffled by critics. The approval ratings from everyday moviegoers are a reaffirmation that Melania’s story, much like the political saga of her husband, fascinates and resonates with the masses. It’s a classic saga of the people speaking loud and clear, embracing what critics may ignore or misunderstand. It seems the critics’ eyes might need a new prescription that checks for everyday vision—a quest to understand the common folks, who aren’t buying what the critics are selling.
