“History huh? Bet we could make some,” Alex Claremont-Diaz once said, and that is exactly what “Red, White and Royal Blue” did with the release of this highly anticipated movie. This feel-good film did not disappoint its audience, showing love and the potential to change with its witty charm.
The romantic comedy arrived on Amazon Prime Video in August of 2023. The author of this beloved love story, Casey McQuinston, wrote the original novel, and it quickly became a ‘book-tok’ sensation, leaving readers wanting much more than what they had received. They were not disappointed when in 2019 the movie was finally announced to be in development.
The heart of the film truly is embodied by the spirited characters that are completely brought to life by its endearing cast. Taylor Zakhar Perez effortlessly represents the charm of the young political leader, Alex Claremont-Diaz, who falls in love with the alluring Prince Henry, played by Nicholas Galitzine. The two actors both embody the love and affection the characters have for each other, and the on-screen chemistry was more than enough in the eyes of critical fans.
Along with having a phenomenal cast, the story itself was extraordinary and was perfect for T.V. The diverse story-line with the incredible range of characters was done so well, and was written almost flawlessly. The way the story was written goes into remarkable detail on how people in the U.S struggle with oppression, or fitting into a box that society has created. The expectations of how you are supposed to be when born into a specific family, and how to grow from traditions and become your own person.
“Red, White and Royal Blue”, has this underlying sense of hopefulness to it. The love between Alex and Henry is beautifully portrayed and the events of the story are extremely raw. The movie somehow shows the more serious, angsty situations through a very optimistic lens. None of the characters allow each other, or themselves, to fall during harder times. Any form of media that is able to show dreadful situations through a lighthearted view, instantly stands out compared to media that shows everything through a darkened point of view.
The overarching story is about coming to yourself at your own point, regardless of your situation, who you are, or what traditions are forced upon you. It is about putting your challenges behind you and finding yourself and finding people around you who love and care about you.
Along with the beautiful message, lighthearted theme, and raw emotion, “Red, White and Royal Blue” has a unique form of cinematography. During the film there are multiple different points of view, and beautiful shots. The creative design choices, music used to paint the overarching picture and the aesthetic fits the mood perfectly in the film.
The overall portrayal and story left viewers demanding for more. With the new rumors of a sequel in the works, fans are so excited to see the actors work together once more in this tale of self discovery, growth, and love. It is a beautiful, fun and eccentric movie that is perfect for the world today.
