Reel Review: Picture This Ties Culture into a Rom-Com
It seems that rom-coms are here to stay in Prime Video’s latest film Picture This!
The film stars Simone Ashley as Pia, a struggling photographer and strong-minded woman, who finds herself in a never ending cycle of bad dates. Now serving as the maid of honor in her sister’s wedding, she is forced to spend time with the best man and her first love, Charlie (Hero Fiennes Tiffin).
The film leans heavily into the comedy and cliches, but the plot itself actually revolves primarily on culture. Pia comes from Indian descent, and her family puts a lot of pressure on her to maintain their traditions, such as marriage and children. Ashley plays this character well by combining these traits into a woman who, at her soul, just wants to be accepted by her family for who she is. The film follows Pia on a journey of soul searching; where she eventually finds love with Charlie, the boy she had loved all along.
Played by heartthrob Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Charlie is charismatic and charming; basically everything that Pia wants to avoid. The two have both grown since the last time they had spoken, which was right before Pia went off to university. When the two reunite, it seems that a spark is still there. Tiffin and Ashley have the cutest banter and their interactions had us laughing the entire time. Their chemistry is what truly makes the film feel like an authentic rom-com!
The side characters also added a lot to the story as well. Pia’s best friend, Jay, gave us the best friend energy we needed and is always a supportive figure for Pia. Luke Fetherston’s character adds a bit of humor and wit, making him and Ashley the perfect BFF duo.
The film is ultimately focused on telling a story through a women’s lens; which is very appreciated. Each woman in this film has a story to tell, whether it’s culturally or socially. This includes Pia’s mother and her sister, who are set on different paths and add unique perspectives to the story. They also serve to create a sense of turmoil for Pia, as she is constantly comparing herself to the women in her life and causing trouble as a result.
Picture This perfectly combines culture, family dynamics, and a whole lot of laughs! While the romance is more subtle, the film still felt well-rounded with all its other factors. Tying in some good tropes like enemies to lovers and forced proximity, Picture This is sure to become your next feel-good film!
Picture This is out now on Prime Video!
