Name: The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Released: 2021-11-18T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Vanessa Hudgens, Remy Hii, Sam Palladio, Nick Sagar, Amanda Donohoe

The opening scene of The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star sets a frantic pace as Vanessa Hudgens, playing three distinct roles once again, rushes through a palace in a flurry of tiaras and tinsel. The camera zooms in on her determined expression as she declares, “We have to get that star back!” It’s a moment that promises adventure, but director Mike Rohl’s latest holiday romp quickly settles into the comforting rhythms of its predecessors.

The film follows Queen Margaret (Hudgens) of Montenaro and Princess Stacy (also Hudgens) of Belgravia as they prepare for an international Christmas festival. The centerpiece of the event is the “Star of Peace,” a sacred relic loaned by the Vatican. When the star is stolen, the royals turn to their troublesome cousin Fiona (Hudgens again), who is currently on probation and working as a custodian at an orphanage. Fiona agrees to help in exchange for Margaret’s support in her upcoming hearing.

Rohl’s direction is serviceable but unremarkable. He relies heavily on close-ups of Hudgens’ expressive face, which becomes something of a visual motif throughout the film. The camerawork is functional, with few standout shots or innovative angles. Rohl’s approach is to let the story and performances carry the film, which they do to a certain extent.

Hudgens is the heart and soul of The Princess Switch 3. She delivers three distinct performances, each with its own nuances and quirks. As Queen Margaret, she exudes regal authority, while as Princess Stacy, she brings a playful charm. But it’s her portrayal of Fiona that truly shines. Hudgens imbues the character with a mix of vulnerability and determination, making her relatable despite her questionable decisions.

The chemistry between Hudgens and Remy Hii, who plays Peter Maxwell, a disgraced Interpol investigator turned private security expert, is one of the film’s strongest assets. Their banter is witty and engaging, and their scenes together are filled with genuine warmth and humor. Hii holds his own against Hudgens’ triple threat performance, bringing a dry wit and quiet intensity to his role.

However, the film’s attempts at humor often fall flat. The script, written by Robin Bernheim Burger, relies heavily on slapstick and repetitive gags that feel tired and uninspired. Scenes like Reggie’s (Ricky Norwood) training mishap and the subsequent infiltration of Hunter Cunard’s estate are meant to be thrilling but come off as awkwardly staged and poorly executed. The action sequences lack tension, and the comedic beats fail to land with the intended impact.

The film’s pacing is another issue. The Princess Switch 3 struggles to find its footing, oscillating between a caper movie and a romantic comedy without fully committing to either genre. The story is filled with subplots—such as Fiona’s unrequited feelings for Peter and Stacy’s impersonation of Fiona at a hearing—that feel underdeveloped and rushed.

One of the film’s few bright spots is its production design. The lavish sets and costumes add a touch of elegance to the proceedings, even if they can’t elevate the material significantly. The attention to detail in the Christmas festival scenes is impressive, with intricate decorations and festive attire that capture the holiday spirit.

The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star is aimed squarely at fans of the first two films and lovers of lighthearted holiday fare. It lacks the originality or depth to appeal to a broader audience, but it delivers enough charm and humor to keep its target demographic entertained. The film’s reliance on familiar tropes and underdeveloped subplots may frustrate viewers looking for something more substantial, but those seeking a pleasant, if unremarkable, holiday diversion will find it satisfying.

In the end, The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star is a forgettable entry in the franchise that struggles to differentiate itself from its predecessors. While Vanessa Hudgens delivers strong performances and shares excellent chemistry with Remy Hii, the film’s weak script and uninspired direction hold it back.