sum of $40 million, reportedly beating out other bidders including Paramount and Disney. The studio spent another $35 million on marketing and the theatrical release, with the film expected to debut in more than 3,000 theaters worldwide Friday. Despite the huge spend, “Melania” is tracking to earn between $3 million and $5 million in its opening weekend, Variety reported. The big sum Amazon spent has raised eyebrows, with former Amazon film executive Ted Hope telling the New York Times it must be the “most expensive documentary ever made that didn’t involve music licensing,” adding: “How can it not be equated with currying favor or an outright bribe?” The documentary follows Melania Trump in the few weeks between her husband’s second presidential election victory and his inauguration. “Melania” was first screened at the White House last week, in a star-studded event with guests including Apple CEO Tim Cook, Zoom CEO Eric Yuan, Queen Rania of Jordan and boxer Mike Tyson.