The Royals (2025) Web Series: Netflix’s Royal Romance Falls Short of Its Promise
When Netflix dropped The Royals this May, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Here’s a show trying to mix royal drama with startup hustle – sounds ambitious, right? Neha Sharma directs this romantic comedy featuring Bhumi Pednekar, Ishaan Khatter, and Sakshi Tanwar.
The premise is simple yet intriguing. A privileged prince bumps into a driven businesswoman, and sparks fly. Add Zeenat Aman as the scene-stealing grandmother, and you’ve got the recipe for what could have been a delightful watch.
Story That Promises More Than It Delivers
Prince Aviraaj lives in his bubble of luxury and tradition. Sophia grinds daily to build her tech company from scratch. When these two worlds meet, the show wants us to believe in their instant connection. The problem? It feels more manufactured than magical.
The eight episodes move at a decent clip, never dragging unnecessarily. Each installment tries to balance humor with romance while tackling issues like social hierarchy. The concept had real potential, but the execution stumbles where it should soar.
Acting That Hits and Misses
Ishaan Khatter knows how to play charming, and he does it well here. His prince feels believable – spoiled but not entirely unlikeable. Sakshi Tanwar and the supporting cast bring their A-game to every scene they’re in.
Bhumi Pednekar, however, struggles to find her footing. Her Sophia comes across as trying too hard to be the strong independent woman trope. I wanted to root for her character, but the chemistry with Khatter just isn’t there. It’s like watching two good actors in separate shows.
Production Values Shine Bright
If there’s one area where The Royals truly excels, it’s the visual presentation. The palace settings look magnificent, and the costume department deserves serious credit. Every royal outfit tells a story, contrasting beautifully with Sophia’s modern wardrobe choices.
Zeenat Aman is pure gold in every frame. Her grandmother character brings wit and wisdom that the younger leads couldn’t match. Watching her navigate scenes with perfect comic timing reminds you why she’s a legend.
Where the Crown Slips
The biggest letdown? Predictability. You can see every plot twist coming from episodes away. The rich-meets-poor storyline has been done countless times, and this version doesn’t bring fresh perspective to the table.
The romantic tension that should drive the entire series feels forced. I found myself more interested in the side characters and their subplots. The central love story lacks the spark that would make viewers invest emotionally in the outcome.
Critics and Viewers Weigh In
Professional critics have been mixed in their response. While praising the production design and some performances, many point out the weak storytelling. Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb reviews reflect this divide among viewers.
Some fans enjoy it as light, binge-worthy content that doesn’t demand too much thinking. Others feel disappointed by what they see as missed opportunities. The mature content rating also limits its family appeal, which could have broadened its reach.
Final Take on Royal Affairs
The Royals had everything needed for success – good concept, decent budget, capable actors. Yet it settles for being just okay when it could have been special. The show entertains without truly engaging, decorates without adding depth.
I wanted to love this series more than I actually did. There are moments of genuine charm, usually involving Zeenat Aman or the gorgeous cinematography. But these highlights can’t mask the fundamental issues with pacing and character development that hold it back.
My Rating: 3/5
