“The Royal Treatment,” released in 2022, is an American romance film that captivates audiences with its charming story and talented cast. Directed by Rick Jacobson and written by Holly Hester, the film stars Laura Marano and Mena Massoud in the lead roles.
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Table of Contents
Plot
The film follows Manhattan hairdresser Izzy (Laura Marano) who unexpectedly gets the opportunity to work at the wedding of Prince Thomas (Mena Massoud). The story unfolds as Izzy navigates this new world, crossing paths with royalty and finding herself amidst unexpected romantic interests.
Cast
- Laura Marano as Isabella “Izzy,” a spirited Manhattan hairdresser.
- Mena Massoud as Prince Thomas, the charming and approachable prince.
- Chelsie Preston-Crayford, Grace Bentley-Tsibuah, Cameron Rhodes, and Jay Simon in supporting roles.
- Elizabeth Hawthorne as Nonna and Amanda Billing as Valentina provide depth to the ensemble.
- Paul Norell and Teuila Blakely as King John and Queen Catherine add a regal presence.
- Phoenix Connolly, Matthew E. Morgan, and Jacque Drew complete the dynamic cast.
Production
Initially planned for a European shoot in early 2020, production was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Filming eventually commenced in February 2021 in New Zealand, involving 30 actors, 100 extras, and a significant crew. Notable locations such as Vogel Street, Fable Dunedin Hotel, Larnach Castle, and the University of Otago Registry Building were used to bring the story to life.
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Reception
Upon its release on Netflix on January 20, 2022, “The Royal Treatment” quickly climbed to the top of the streaming service’s charts. Despite its popularity, the film received mixed to negative reviews. Rotten Tomatoes reported a 35% approval rating, while Metacritic assigned a score of 36 out of 100. Critics praised some aspects like the cast’s performances, especially that of Massoud and Marano, but critiqued the film for its one-dimensional characters and lackluster script.
Summation
“The Royal Treatment” stands out for its engaging narrative and notable performances, particularly by Laura Marano and Mena Massoud. While the film has its shortcomings, it remains a beloved entry in the romantic film genre, showcasing the allure of unexpected love and the charm of royal encounters.
