“Picture This,” streaming on Prime Video, is a fresh addition to the wedding-themed romantic comedy genre, though it carries with it a mix of expectations and disappointments. Directed by Prarthana Mohan, this film seeks to explore the complexity of love and personal aspirations against the backdrop of a wedding—a familiar setting that has birthed countless rom-coms. While the titular film is derived from the Australian movie “Five First Dates,” it places a unique lens on modern relationships and individual ambitions, albeit with a few misses that might leave viewers craving deeper substance.
Character Depth: A Double-Edged Sword
The film’s protagonists, Pia (Simone Ashley) and her former love interest played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin, are well-crafted characters who grapple with their past while coming to terms with their present. Pia’s refusal to marry reflects a growing sentiment among millennials—a desire to prioritize career over conventional relationships. Her struggle to keep her photography studio, the Ninth Mandala, afloat is an all-too-real challenge that many face today. However, while Pia’s ambition is commendable, it is somewhat overshadowed by the wedding narrative, making her arc feel secondary. Ideally, the film could have delved deeper into her internal conflicts, providing a richer exploration of her character.
The Role of Friendship
Pia’s best friend Jay, played with charm by Luke Fetherston, becomes a vital anchor in her tumultuous journey. His unwavering support and comedic relief offer moments of levity, but one can’t help but notice that Jay, as a gay character, is often relegated to the role of the “sidekick.” This portrayal is both a nod to the importance of friendship in navigating romance—and a step backward in terms of nuanced representation. In a landscape where LGBTQ+ stories deserve their own narratives, Jay could have benefited from a more profound storyline that elevated him from mere comic relief to an individual with dreams and aspirations of his own.
Music: The Heartbeat of the Film
One of the standout elements of “Picture This” is its soundtrack, featuring an impressive line-up of artists, including a surprise performance from a “Ted Lasso” star. The selection of songs adds a layer of emotional depth, effectively mirroring the film’s romantic ups and downs. The original song “Golden Chapter” performed by Kiran + Nivi is particularly noteworthy, encapsulating the essence of love’s journey. However, while the music does elevate certain scenes, it sometimes feels like a distraction, momentarily detracting from the central narrative rather than reinforcing it.
Redefining Romance in Modern Context
Ultimately, “Picture This” positions itself as a commentary on love that prioritizes personal growth—an important narrative for today’s audience. Still, it navigates this theme with uneven footing. While aiming to address the ever-changing dynamics of relationships, it sometimes falls back into cliched territory typical of the genre. The film’s heart is in the right place, yet it stumbles in execution, leaving viewers desiring a more revolutionary take on love in contemporary society. It’s a film that is enjoyable, but perhaps not as groundbreaking as it aspires to be.
