Are romantic comedies all the same or do they only subtly differ? Yes, with barely perceptible differences, romantic comedies seem to follow such a marked narrative path that they inevitably tend to look too much alike.
In this instance, we have a remake of the 2024 Australian film, transplanted to London, once again taking up the format of recent romantic comedies: a woman of a certain age (30) who hasn’t gotten married and sees time slowly passing by.
Starring Simone Ashley as Pia, a struggling photographer on the brink of personal and professional transformation, the film adopts a mystical approach to romance.
Directed by Prarthana Mohan and written by Nikita Lalwani, the film is based on the 2024 Australian romantic comedy “Five Blind Dates”. The production, a collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios and Ingenious Media, brings together a talented team including editor Gary Dollner and cinematographer David Higgs.
The Plot
Pia receives a prediction that her next five dates will lead her to true love and professional success, just as her sister’s wedding approaches and her family becomes anxious to play matchmaker.
The Actors
Simone Ashley, known for her roles in “Bridgerton” and “Sex Education”, brings vibrant energy to Pia. Opposite her, Hero Fiennes Tiffin plays Charlie, her ex who reappears at the most complicated possible moment.
The supporting cast, including Luke Fetherston, who offers a performance that is both funny and tender, adds depth and humor to the narrative.
About the Film
Nothing we haven’t seen before, and even the cultural context (families of Indian origin in the UK) seems too worn out to surprise us. “Picture This” opts more for romance and being a sensitive film rather than immersing the viewer in its comedic side. It’s more of a natural, intimate, and tender portrait of a 30-year-old girl seeking her place in the world than a comedy. Thus, it will appeal more to sensitive viewers than comedy lovers, though it does have its comic moments (albeit not many).
It has good cinematography, especially of exteriors. A slow pace and a familiar, measured script approach. A film that, without trying to reinvent cinema, provides us with some calm and tender moments rather than a stimulating stylistic experience.
“Picture This” entertains, is tender and romantic, ideal for lovers of simple, coherent, and functional romantic comedy. Enjoy it.
Where to Watch “Picture This”
The Cast
Anoushka Chadha
Sindhu Vee
Eben Figueiredo
Sophia LaPorta
Cordelia Bugeja
