The Royals arrives with glitz, glamour, and a storyline reminiscent of several Hollywood films, but with a Bollywood twist. Packed with royal mansions, secret identities, lavish wardrobes, and some familiar tropes, the show tries to blend drama and whimsy — and does so with mixed results.

To start with the positives, the show is undoubtedly stylish. The production design is luxe, the costumes are Pinterest-worthy, and the overall vibe is fashion-forward. Dino Morea, who plays the dashing Nawab Salauddin Khan aka Salad, is a visual treat. He carries the suave monarch charm effortlessly and honestly, looks delicious in every frame. But while the visuals shine, the storytelling lacks the same finesse.

The biggest surprise is the sparkling chemistry between supporting characters Kavya Trehan ana Ginnie and Lisa Mishra aka Nikki — so much so that they outshine the lead couple. Ishaan Khatter’s Fizzy and Bhumi Pednekar’s Sophia, who are central to the romantic arc, are charming individually but have zero chemistry together. Their scenes fall flat, lacking the tension or emotion needed to keep viewers invested in their love story.

On the other hand, Vihan Samrat, who plays the prince with a passion for cooking, adds freshness to the narrative. His character is endearing and brings in a Princess Switch-style vibe — the commoner with a secret, a royal falling for simplicity, and lots of mistaken identities.

However, the show fails to utilize its strong female cast effectively. Sakshi Tanwar’s role feels confused and half-baked, never truly allowing her to shine. Zeenat Aman, despite her iconic presence, is reduced to a near-cameo with no depth or purpose in the plot. Both actresses deserved far more meat in their characters.

Overall, The Royals is eclectic, fun, and visually captivating, but inconsistent in character development and chemistry. Worth a watch for the aesthetics and Dino Morea’s regal charm — but don’t expect a deeply fulfilling royal experience.

About Miss SM

An experienced entertainment journalist with over 20 years in the industry, specializing in film, television, music, and celebrity culture. Known for delivering in-depth features, interviews, and critical reviews, Miss SM has built a reputation for insightful storytelling and an eye for trends. With a strong presence across print, digital, and broadcast platforms, she has cultivated relationships with industry insiders and top-tier talent. Adept at covering red carpets, premieres, and exclusive events, Miss SM has been recognized for her credibility and passion for pop culture. A trusted voice, consistently delivering compelling content that resonates with diverse audiences.