“Down Under Disappointment: Red, White & Royal Blue Fails to Reign Supreme”

< h3 >Overview< /h3 >

Louis Staples, in his review of Amazon Prime Video’s adaptation of Casey McQuiston’s hit LGBTQ+ romance novel, “Red, White & Royal Blue,” expresses disappointment with the film, describing it as predictable and clichéd. Staples argues that the best romantic comedies have the ability to challenge our notions of what is realistic or plausible, even within a familiar world. However, he contends that “Red, White & Royal Blue” fails to offer anything unexpected or innovative within the genre.

< h3 >Lack of Originality and Stereotypes< /h3 >

Staples criticizes the film for adhering to predictable tropes and stereotypes. He notes that the British characters are portrayed as uptight, while the Americans are depicted as loud and obnoxious, which he finds unoriginal and unimaginative. The reviewer further points out that the film includes all the staple montages of the genre, such as the “getting to know each other” montage, the sex montage, and the “it’s all fallen apart” montage. Staples argues that even for a romcom, which often embraces formulaic storytelling, “Red, White & Royal Blue” lacks innovation.

< h3 >Representation and Queer Storytelling< /h3 >

Staples discusses the ongoing debate surrounding LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream films. He remarks that some queer romcoms, such as Billy Eichner’s “Bros,” have been seen as missed opportunities to be more inventive with the genre’s tropes. While acknowledging that “Red, White & Royal Blue” features LGBTQ+ characters and explores their coming out experiences, Staples questions whether these characters represent the wider queer community or cater primarily to a straight audience. He suggests that the film’s characters navigate specific and privileged circumstances that might not be relatable to all members of the queer community.

< h3 >Issues with Script and Characters< /h3 >

Staples highlights several issues with the film’s script and characters. He criticizes the detailed focus on the fictionalized specifics of Anglo-American relations, which detracts from the film’s fun and turns it into a tedious exploration of political landscapes. Additionally, Staples notes that the portrayal of fictional royalty is lackluster, with British characters reduced to wooden and humorless caricatures. He asserts that not even the talented Stephen Fry, playing the UK’s fictional king, can salvage the script.

< h4 >Moments of Entertainment and Missed Opportunities< /h4 >

Despite its flaws, Staples acknowledges that “Red, White & Royal Blue” has moments of entertainment. He suggests that the film is at its best when it embraces its eccentric moments and explores the unexpected in such unusual circumstances. Staples also laments missed opportunities, such as the underdeveloped subplot involving a jealous gay journalist who outs the couple in the media. He proposes that further exploration of the differences between the characters’ sexual identities could have added depth and humor to their relationship.

< h3 >Mediocre Status in Romcom Hierarchy< /h3 >

Staples categorizes “Red, White & Royal Blue” as a mediocre romcom that fails to make a lasting impact. He argues that the film does not fall into the category of “so bad it’s good” Hallmark movies or Netflix’s lighthearted festive films. Likewise, Staples believes it is not good enough to be remembered as a classic romcom or become a topic of cultural conversation. He contends that the film lacks insightful observations about romance, privilege, or LGBTQ+ experiences beyond surface-level progressivism.

< h3 >Conclusion: Manage Your Expectations< /h3 >

Staples concludes by advising potential viewers to manage their expectations when approaching “Red, White & Royal Blue.” He suggests that if one is seeking a film featuring beautiful men with perfect hair and sculpted abs, which does not demand much from the audience, then the film might satisfy those desires. However, if one seeks a romcom that is genuinely hilarious and offers thought-provoking insights into relationships and beyond clichés, Staples warns of disappointment. He assigns the film a rating of two out of five stars based on its lack of originality and failure to deliver on its potential.

< h4 >Red, White & Royal Blue is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video starting August 11th, 2023.< /h4 >