Netflix's latest series, "The Royals," transports viewers into the fictional kingdom of Morpur, where traditional Indian royalty meets modern entrepreneurship in a romantic comedy setting. Created by Rangita Pritish Nandy and Ishita Pritish Nandy, this eight-episode series stars Ishaan Khatter as Aviraaj Singh, a polo-playing prince, and Bhumi Pednekar as Sophia Kanmani Shekhar, a determined CEO with ambitious plans.
The series begins with a unique premise: Sophia pitches the idea of transforming Morpur's royal mansion into a luxury bed-and-breakfast, aptly named "The Royals B and B." This ambitious endeavor sets the stage for a romantic partnership filled with tension and humor. As Nandy explains, the show explores the "dichotomy" between the remnants of traditional royalty and the emerging startup culture in India, a theme that resonates in today's entrepreneurial landscape.
Interestingly, Indian royalty was officially abolished in 1950 when India became a republic, yet the allure of palatial life and the remnants of royal privilege continue to captivate audiences. "Technically, Indian royalty doesn’t exist. It hasn’t existed since 1950 when it was abolished," Nandy notes, highlighting the show's blend of historical context with contemporary themes.
As Sophia and Aviraaj navigate their business venture, their initial icy relationship transforms into a romantic entanglement. However, the chemistry between the leads has been a point of contention among critics. While the series is visually stunning, showcasing the grandeur of Rajasthan's palaces, some reviewers have pointed out that the romance feels more functional than passionate. "The Royals" checks all the boxes for a romantic drama but lacks the essential spark that makes such stories truly engaging.
Despite this, the ensemble cast is noteworthy, featuring talents like Zeenat Aman, Sakshi Tanwar, and Vihaan Samat, who bring depth to their roles. Tanwar, in particular, has been praised for her ability to anchor the series, providing a counterbalance to the younger leads. Critics have noted that while Khatter and Pednekar are capable actors, their performances often feel overshadowed by the stronger supporting cast.
The narrative structure of "The Royals" has also drawn mixed reviews. Some critics describe it as a "beautiful-looking but superficial saga," with a script that meanders through predictable plot points without fully capitalizing on its potential. The pacing has been criticized for being inconsistent, with moments of momentum quickly lost to drawn-out scenes and subplots that fail to contribute meaningfully to the central storyline.
Visually, the series is a treat, with vibrant cinematography that captures both the opulence and decay of Morpur's royal heritage. The directors, Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, have successfully created a visually engaging world, but critics argue that the storytelling does not match the aesthetic quality.
With eight episodes running nearly 40 minutes each, "The Royals" offers ample time for character development, yet many feel that it squanders this opportunity. The romance between Sophia and Aviraaj, meant to be the heart of the series, often feels more like a subplot than the driving force. As they navigate their differences and ambitions, their relationship struggles to evolve beyond the initial attraction, leaving viewers wanting more depth and authenticity.
In a landscape increasingly dominated by streaming content, "The Royals" attempts to carve out its niche by presenting a modern fairy tale. However, the execution has left some viewers feeling unsatisfied. The series is marketed as a contemporary romantic drama, yet it often falls back on clichés and predictable tropes that have been seen in countless other productions.
As the series unfolds, viewers are introduced to a cast of quirky characters, each with their own ambitions and secrets. From the royal family members dealing with financial struggles to Sophia's team of ambitious professionals, the narrative provides a glimpse into the complexities of life behind palace walls. However, the show often feels overstuffed, with too many characters vying for attention without sufficient development.
Despite its shortcomings, "The Royals" has been noted for its ambition to blend traditional elements of Indian storytelling with modern themes. The creators have expressed a desire to showcase Indian culture authentically, rather than simply mimicking Western narratives. Nandy emphasizes the importance of placing India at the forefront of the content produced, stating, "What we have to do as content creators out of India is that we have to put India somewhere front and center in the content that we make."
As the series currently streams on Netflix, it offers a mix of entertainment and cultural commentary, albeit with some flaws. Viewers looking for a light-hearted escape may find enjoyment in its romantic escapades and lavish settings, while those seeking a deeper narrative may feel let down by its execution. Ultimately, "The Royals" presents a modern twist on the classic royal romance, inviting audiences to explore the intersections of tradition and modernity in contemporary India.
In conclusion, while "The Royals" may not fully deliver on its romantic promise, it provides a visually appealing exploration of a fictional royal family navigating the complexities of modern life. With its glamorous setting and ambitious premise, the series captures the imagination, even if it occasionally falters in execution.
