In the vibrant world of Indian streaming, Netflix's latest offering, The Royals, has arrived with a mix of glamour, romance, and a touch of social commentary. Starring Ishaan Khatter as the charming prince Aviraaj Singh and Bhumi Pednekar as the fiercely ambitious Sophia Kanmani Shekhar, this eight-episode series promises a modern fairy tale steeped in royal tradition and contemporary challenges.
The series, co-created by Rangita Pritish Nandy and Ishita Pritish Nandy, and directed by Priyanka Ghose and Nupur Asthana, takes viewers to the opulent palaces of Rajasthan where the royal family of Morpur grapples with financial troubles after the death of Maharaja Yuvnath Singh, played by Milind Soman. As the heir apparent, Aviraaj is reluctant to embrace his royal responsibilities, preferring the excitement of his previous life as a model in New York. However, the dire financial situation forces him to reconsider.
Enter Sophia, a self-made CEO of a hospitality startup named WorkPotato. Her ambitious plan to transform the crumbling palace into a luxury bed-and-breakfast sparks a clash of egos and ambitions with Aviraaj. As they navigate their professional partnership, the tension between them ignites into a romantic entanglement, leading to a classic enemies-to-lovers storyline.
Despite its promising premise, The Royals struggles to maintain a consistent tone throughout its episodes. Critics have pointed out that while the series is visually stunning, showcasing lavish costumes and picturesque locations, it often falls short in delivering the emotional depth expected from a romantic drama. The chemistry between Khatter and Pednekar, although present, lacks the intensity needed to elevate their relationship to the level of a true romantic connection.
One of the standout features of the series is its ensemble cast. Zeenat Aman plays the role of the matriarch, Rajmata Bhagyashri, who adds a layer of charm to the narrative, although her character often feels underutilized. Sakshi Tanwar shines as Maharani Padmaja, bringing a blend of gravitas and humor to her role. The supporting characters, including Vihaan Samat as Digvijay Singh and Kavya Trehan as Divyaranjani Singh, contribute to the series' appeal, each bringing their unique flair to the royal family dynamics.
The dialogue, penned by Neha Veena Sharma, contains moments of wit and humor, particularly in the interactions among the royal family members. However, some critics argue that the writing lacks the sharpness needed to fully engage the audience. Instances of forced humor and cliché tropes detract from the overall narrative, making it feel like a missed opportunity for a more nuanced exploration of royal life.
Despite these shortcomings, The Royals does manage to touch on relevant social issues, such as the financial struggles faced by modern royals and the complexities of identity and ambition. Sophia's character, in particular, resonates with viewers as she navigates a male-dominated world while trying to assert her independence and vision.
The series also addresses themes of queerness and gender roles, presenting a refreshing take on the dynamics within the royal family. Aviraaj's relationships with his siblings and his evolving understanding of his royal duties reflect a more progressive narrative that challenges traditional norms.
Visually, The Royals is a treat. The cinematography captures the grandeur of Rajasthan's palaces while juxtaposing the decay of royal life with the glitz and glamour of modernity. The production design, particularly the costumes, adds to the series' appeal, immersing viewers in a world of opulence.
However, some critics feel that the series' pacing is uneven, with certain storylines feeling rushed or underdeveloped. The introduction of new characters and conflicts in each episode can lead to a sense of chaos, making it difficult for viewers to fully connect with the characters' journeys.
In terms of ratings, reviews have varied widely. Some reviews have awarded The Royals a rating of 2 stars out of 5, citing its lack of depth and engaging storytelling. Others have been more generous, giving it a score of 3.5 stars, praising its entertainment value and visual appeal while acknowledging its flaws.
Overall, The Royals offers a blend of romance, comedy, and drama set against the backdrop of royal life. While it may not fulfill all expectations, it provides a light-hearted escape for viewers looking for a modern twist on classic romantic tropes. As the series continues to gain traction on Netflix, audiences are left wondering if the royal family of Morpur can truly navigate the complexities of love and ambition in a rapidly changing world.
