What happens when a picture-perfect cast meets a filterless script? Picture This, released on March 6, 2025, on Prime Video, had all the right ingredients on paper – A charming lead in Simone Ashley, A romantic hook featuring Hero Fiennes Tiffin and a multicultural setting brimming with potential.
The story follows Pia, a struggling photographer in London who’s told by a spiritual guru that her true love lies within her next five dates. Along the way, her ex Charlie, returns, creating a romantic crossroads. Sounds like a recipe for rom-com gold, right? Well… not quite.
What Were People Expecting?
- Star Power = Star Quality: With Bridgerton’s Simone Ashley and After’s Hero Fiennes Tiffin headlining, fans anticipated on-screen magic – sizzling chemistry, magnetic romance, and memorable performances.
- Fresh Twist on Familiar Tropes: The “five blind dates” premise had the potential to spin a fun, modern, multicultural twist on the age-old love quest.
- Cultural Celebration: Set in London with Indian roots, viewers hoped for a meaningful, respectful, and joyous portrayal of Indian culture blended with contemporary British life.
- Witty, Feel-Good Vibes: Rom-com lovers expected a blend of laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt scenes, with sharp writing and lovable side characters.
How It Failed People’s Expectations
- Zero Chemistry: Pia and Charlie had as much spark as a blown fuse. The romantic tension was nonexistent, and their interactions felt like reading from cue cards – flat and emotionless.
- One-Dimensional Characters: Neither lead had a character arc worth rooting for. Pia lacked growth, and Charlie felt like an afterthought rather than a love interest.
- Misrepresentation of Culture: Instead of celebrating Indian culture, the film fell into caricature territory – exaggerated, misplaced, and lacking authenticity.
- Tired Storyline: The plot walks in circles: blind dates, forced life lessons, convenient twists. It’s the same rom-com recipe – just microwaved and served cold.
- Forced Humor, Forced Heart: Some jokes hit, but many felt out of place or cringey. Attempts at emotional depth came off as try-hard instead of touching.
- Wasted Potential: The script gave its stars nothing to shine with. You can’t build a rom-com empire on vibes alone and this one collapsed on weak foundations.
Picture This — Click or Slick?
Let’s be real: Picture This is more “meh-flick” than chick flick. With two gorgeous leads and a promising concept, it should have been the next comfort-watch classic. Instead, it’s a missed opportunity.
Even the title feels like false advertising. “Picture This”? More like “Forget This.” Only watch it if you’re deeply curious or need a background movie for folding laundry. Picture This, is like buying a beautifully wrapped gift only to find nothing inside – Disappointing, dry, and not worth the excitement
RATINGS – 5/10 ⭐
WRITTEN BY MANSI.B.SINGH