Millions go online to see “Mitt” on Netflix

Millions tuned in Friday night to watch, on their TV, tablet, or computer, the most anticipated documentary of 2014. Netflix premiered the Sundance documentary winner “Mitt”, which follows Republican nominee Mitt Romney through the beginnings of his presidential aspirations in 2006 to his defeat to Barack Obama on Election Night 2012. The film from, director Greg Whiteley, spans seven years as Whiteley gains intimate access to the former Massachusetts governor and his family on and off the campaign trail through Romney’s quest for the White House.

Netflix was surprised by the number of viewers, which most likely included many Christians anxious for an “inside peek” into America’s most famous Mormon family (maybe next to the Osmonds) and how they handled a presidential bid for president. The documentary is getting good reviews from across the country for its authenticity and honest look at the “almost” First Family.

“It feels like a full circle moment to premiere this movie at Sundance,” said Whiteley. “I first met and filmed the Romney family in Park City in 2006 as they gathered to discuss whether Mitt should run for President. Over the next seven years I couldn’t believe I was filming inside rooms and situations I had no business being in.”

Mitt is exec produced by (Undefeated) helmer Seth Gordon and premiered January 17 during the 2014 Sundance Film Festival in Salt Lake City, where Romney has roots and once led the Salt Lake Olympics Games Organizing Committee. This marks Netflix’s latest nonfiction acquisition following the shortlisted Oscar documentary The Square.

The documentary should be available for the foreseeable future on Netflix.