Red, White & Royal Blue exploded into the screen with all the vigour of a corgi backflipping over a champagne bathtub. Its notion is pleasantly exhilarating, and despite all the odds, it succeeds. The film, which was made by Matthew López, is a love story that successfully combines the recognisable beats of a classic film romance with the unique details of two of the most well-known young men in the world attempting to keep their relationship secret. This cinematic masterpiece, which was adapted from Casey McQuiston’s best-selling book, takes viewers on a voyage of love, authenticity, and happily ever afters.

At its heart, Red, White & Royal Blue is a story about love and the lengths individuals are willing to go to safeguard their personal lives and shield their families from potential controversy. Alex Clarmont-Diaz (Taylor Zakhar Perez), the son of the U.S. President, and Prince Henry (Nicholas Galitzine), of Britain, starts out with initial antagonism that develops into mutual respect, leading to amusing banter and, finally, the heartwarming realisation that they are madly in love.

Alex Clarmont-Diaz, passionate about politics but often relegated to ceremonial duties, is tasked with escorting Nora (Rachel Hilson), the granddaughter of the U.S. Vice President, to the wedding of the British King’s grandson and heir to the throne. Alex is trying to avoid Prince Henry, whom he vehemently dislikes for reasons that will eventually be made clear because he is annoyed by the superficiality of the occasion. However, their interaction at the wedding reception results in a hilariously awkward predicament, forcing them to project friendly ties on a global scale.

The film strives to be something more deep even if it adheres to the traditional romantic comedy template. With the help of his outstanding ensemble cast, López skillfully transitions from nearly slapstick humour to captivating drama. The cast of the film is refreshingly diverse, and diversity is accurately portrayed without the need for assimilation. Each individual is at ease with who they are, and Alex’s interactions with a Hispanic journalist make this authenticity crucial.

Notably, Red, White & Royal Blue introduces subtle, thoughtful touches that add depth to the storyline. Clifton Collins Jr. delivers a moving performance as Alex’s father, Congressman Oscar Diaz, who lovingly accepts his son’s relationship with Henry. Oscar makes a reference to the difficulties he and Ellen encountered and the doubts that people had about their varied ethnic origins.

López’s musical theatre training is evident in the storytelling style of the film. The protagonists are depicted by director of photography Stephen Goldblatt in a way that is almost ethereal. The couple’s cultural differences, which are portrayed with humour and nuance to show the development of their love, are the focus of the story.

The fight for self-acceptance and the effect of public life on interpersonal relationships are just two of the complicated topics covered in the film. Henry self-identifies as gay, whereas Alex self-identifies as bisexual. While both struggle with the consequences of their sexual identities within their well-known families, they continue to be true to one another and their shared wants.

While Red, White & Royal Blue indulges in several plot conveniences typical of fairy tales, the viewer is ready to suspend disbelief due to the captivating chemistry between Perez and Galitzine. After all, “happily ever after” is the cornerstone upon which a fairy tale’s endearing character is based.

In Red, White & Royal Blue, Matthew López tells a sweet and up-to-date love story that has genuine emotion. Inviting us all to embrace our own happily ever afters, it transcends boundaries and embraces love in all of its manifestations. This film is a joyous reminder of the eternal strength of love, even in the most unlikely circumstances.