Bridgerton fans get ready because Simone Ashley is back on our screens but this time in a totally different vibe. She is starring in a brand new rom-com called 'Picture This' that just dropped on Prime Video. So is it a charming must-see or just another movie night option? Let's get into it.
'Picture This' Plot: Blind Dates Family Pressure and a Photographer's Dream
In 'Picture This' Simone Ashley plays Pia a London-based photographer who is really focused on her career. She has a photography studio dedicated to her grandma and is determined to make it work. But life is not always easy especially when your family is constantly asking about your love life.
Pia's mom and sister are all about her settling down finding a husband and following tradition. With her sister's wedding coming up the pressure is on. Then a fortune teller predicts Pia will find her soulmate within the next five dates. Cue the chaos!
Pia's family jumps into action setting her up on a series of blind dates. These dates as you can imagine are not exactly smooth sailing. We are talking awkward businessmen quirky musicians and of course her ex-boyfriend Charlie played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin who suddenly reappears as the best man at her sister's wedding. Talk about complicated.
The movie follows Pia's dating adventures and her struggle to balance family expectations her career dreams and maybe just maybe finding love along the way. It is a classic rom-com setup with a bit of a cultural twist.
Simone Ashley Shines: Bridgerton Grace Meets Rom-Com Charm
One thing everyone seems to agree on is that Simone Ashley is great in 'Picture This'. If you loved her as Kate Sharma in Bridgerton you will see that same effortless grace and charm in Pia. Critics are saying Ashley really carries the movie bringing a wonderful energy to the role.
She plays Pia as a strong independent woman who is also a bit of a mess internally. Ashley shows us Pia's outward confidence but also her inner conflicts and vulnerabilities. You root for her even when she is making questionable dating choices. Some reviews highlight that Ashley brings a depth to Pia that makes her more than just your typical rom-com lead. She makes Pia relatable and someone you actually want to see succeed both in love and her career.
Mixed Reviews: Charming But Predictable Rom-Com Territory
While Simone Ashley's performance is a highlight reviews for 'Picture This' overall are a bit mixed. Many agree it is a charming and sweet movie. It is a pleasant watch especially if you are in the mood for something lighthearted and fun. It definitely hits those rom-com comfort movie notes.
However some critics point out that 'Picture This' does not really break any new ground. The plot is pretty predictable and follows familiar rom-com paths. The blind dates while funny at times can feel a little contrived and the romance with Hero Fiennes Tiffin's character Charlie is seen as somewhat underdeveloped. Some reviews mention a lack of chemistry between Ashley and Tiffin which makes the central romance fall a bit flat for some viewers.
Basically if you are looking for a super original groundbreaking rom-com 'Picture This' might not be it. But if you want a charming movie with a strong lead performance some laughs and a heartwarming story it could be right up your alley.
Cultural Spice: Exploring Indian Culture and Family Expectations
What sets 'Picture This' apart a little from other rom-coms is its exploration of Indian culture. Pia's family is Indian and the movie weaves in cultural traditions family expectations and the push and pull between personal ambition and heritage. This cultural depth is highlighted as one of the more engaging aspects of the film.
Pia's relationship with her mother is specifically mentioned as poignant. Her mother's love is clear but it's mixed with her own traditional ideas for Pia's life. This tension between generations and cultural values adds another layer to Pia's journey beyond just the typical rom-com dating mishaps.
The movie also showcases Indian customs food and music adding a vibrant visual and sensory element that makes the story feel more specific and relatable within its cultural context.
Hero Fiennes Tiffin as Charlie: Love Interest or Plot Device?
Hero Fiennes Tiffin who is known for the 'After' movies plays Charlie Pia's ex-boyfriend. While Tiffin has leading man looks some reviews suggest his character Charlie is not as well-developed as Pia. He is seen as more of a "placeholder" or a convenient plot device to create romantic tension.
The chemistry between Pia and Charlie is also mentioned as lacking. Despite being the central romance some feel their connection does not really spark on screen. This makes the eventual romantic reunion feel less impactful and more like an expected part of the rom-com formula rather than a truly earned emotional moment.
Final Verdict: Is 'Picture This' Your Next Prime Video Binge?
So should you watch 'Picture This'? If you are a Simone Ashley fan or just love a good charming rom-com it is definitely worth checking out especially if you have Prime Video already. It is a sweet feel-good movie that is easy to watch and can boost your mood. Just do not expect anything groundbreaking or super original.
It is a familiar rom-com story with a likeable lead and some cultural flavor. Think of it as a pleasant escape perfect for curling up on the couch when you need something light and heartwarming. If you are craving a rom-com that plays it safe and delivers on the usual genre tropes 'Picture This' will likely be a win for you. But if you are looking for something that reinvents the genre or has a super intense romance you might want to look elsewhere.