Name: The Royal Treatment
Genre: Romance, Comedy
Released: 2022-01-20T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Laura Marano, Mena Massoud, Chelsie Preston Crayford, Grace Bentley-Tsibuah, Cameron Rhodes

Laura Marano’s Isabella “Izzy” stands in front of a mirror, scissors snipping through the air like a metronome keeping time with her rapid-fire wit. This is the opening gambit of The Royal Treatment, a romance comedy that trades on the familiar beats of class divides and love at first sight—only this time, it’s a haircut that sparks the flame.

Director Rick Jacobson’s film follows Izzy, a no-nonsense New York hairstylist who runs her own salon, as she gets the opportunity of a lifetime: to style the hair for the royal wedding of Prince Thomas (Mena Massoud). The prince, burdened by duty and a loveless engagement, finds himself drawn to Izzy’s fiery spirit. What unfolds is a predictable but vibrant dance between two people learning to take control of their own destinies.

The film’s strongest moments are those that lean into its cheesiness with unabashed glee. The chemistry between Marano and Massoud crackles in scenes where they trade barbs or share quiet, intimate moments. A particular standout is the haircut scene—yes, a haircut—that serves as their meet-cute. Izzy’s confidence and precision contrast sharply with Thomas’ initial stiffness, and the way Massoud softens under Marano’s touch (both literal and metaphorical) is delightful to watch.

The supporting cast adds texture to the story. Chelsie Preston Crayford as Destiny, Grace Bentley-Tsibuah as Lola, and Cameron Rhodes as Walter provide moments of levity and heart, grounding the film in a sense of community that feels authentic. Elizabeth Hawthorne’s Nonna delivers some of the film’s most touching lines about love and duty, adding emotional weight to the proceedings.

However, The Royal Treatment stumbles when it tries too hard to be more than what it is—a lighthearted romance. The plot is formulaic, and the pacing occasionally feels rushed, as if Jacobson is eager to check off every trope in the romantic comedy playbook. Some of the dialogue veers into cliché territory, and the film’s attempt to tackle heavier themes like duty vs. love feels superficial at times.

The cinematography is serviceable but unremarkable, relying on bright colors and soft lighting to create a visually pleasing aesthetic. The soundtrack, while enjoyable, doesn’t elevate the material in any significant way. It’s functional, evoking themes of love, adventure, and self-discovery, but it never truly stands out.

Ultimately, The Royal Treatment is a film that knows its audience and delivers exactly what they expect—a feel-good romance with vibrant energy and a healthy dose of cheesiness.