A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding (2018) | Movie Review

Hey guys! Let's dive into the shimmering, snow-dusted world of Aldovia with A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding, the 2018 sequel that had everyone talking – whether they loved it or loved to critique it. If you're anything like me, you probably snuggled up with a warm blanket and a mug of hot cocoa, ready to escape into a world of royal romance. But did this sequel live up to the charm of the original, or did it stumble under the weight of its own crown?

Back to Aldovia: A Quick Recap

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's rewind a bit. A Christmas Prince introduced us to Amber Moore, a bright-eyed, ambitious journalist who goes undercover in Aldovia to get the scoop on the supposedly playboy Prince Richard. Fast forward through a series of plot twists and adorable moments, and BAM! They fall in love. The end, right? Nope! This is where The Royal Wedding picks up, with Amber preparing to say "I do" and officially become a princess. What could possibly go wrong?

The Plot Thickens (or Does It?)

The main keyword here is royal wedding, and boy, is there a lot of wedding planning! But amidst the dress fittings and cake tastings, trouble is brewing in Aldovia. The country is facing an economic crisis, and someone is trying to sabotage Richard's reign. Amber, being the super-sleuth journalist that she is, can't help but get involved. So, while she's juggling royal etiquette and pre-wedding jitters, she's also trying to uncover a conspiracy that could threaten the entire kingdom. Talk about a stressful bridal shower!

The Good, The Bad, and The Sparkly

Let's break down what works and what doesn't in A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding.

What Shines Like a Royal Tiara:

• The Festive Atmosphere: This movie is like a warm hug on a cold winter day. The snow-covered landscapes, the twinkling lights, and the cheerful Christmas decorations create a truly magical atmosphere. If you're looking for a dose of holiday cheer, this movie definitely delivers. The film does an excellent job of creating a cozy, festive world that viewers want to escape into, which is a major draw for holiday-themed movies. The setting itself almost becomes a character, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
• Amber's Relatability: Amber remains a down-to-earth and relatable character, even as she's navigating the complexities of royal life. She's not afraid to be herself, and she brings a sense of normalcy to the often-stuffy world of Aldovia. Her struggles with royal protocol and her unwavering loyalty to her friends and family make her someone you can root for. This relatability is key to the film's appeal, as it allows viewers to connect with Amber on a personal level, even if they've never set foot in a castle.
• The Romance Factor: Richard and Amber's relationship is still sweet and charming, even though they're facing new challenges. Their love for each other is evident, and their scenes together are filled with warmth and affection. While their romance might not be the most groundbreaking, it's comforting and familiar, like a favorite Christmas carol. The film relies on the established chemistry between the two leads to carry the emotional weight of the story, and for the most part, it succeeds in delivering a satisfying romantic arc.

What Needs a Royal Decree to Fix:

• The Predictable Plot: Let's be honest, the plot is about as predictable as a Hallmark Christmas movie. There are no real surprises, and the mystery surrounding the economic crisis is easily solved. While predictability can be comforting, it also makes the movie feel a bit bland and uninspired. The film could have benefited from a few more unexpected twists and turns to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. A more complex and engaging storyline would have elevated the movie beyond its formulaic structure.
• The Over-the-Top Drama: Sometimes, the movie veers into melodramatic territory. The stakes are raised so high that it becomes hard to take the story seriously. From sabotaged wedding dresses to potential international crises, it feels like the writers threw in every possible conflict they could think of. A more subtle and nuanced approach to the drama would have made the story feel more authentic and believable. The film's tendency to exaggerate conflicts detracts from the overall emotional impact.
• The Questionable Fashion Choices: Okay, I know this is a minor detail, but some of Amber's outfits are just...questionable. As a fashion blogger, you'd think she'd have a better sense of style. Some of the royal attire feels a bit too costume-y and not quite chic enough for a modern princess. While fashion is subjective, some of the choices seemed out of sync with Amber's character and the overall tone of the movie. A more refined and contemporary wardrobe would have enhanced Amber's image and made her more relatable to fashion-conscious viewers.

Final Verdict: Royal Approval or a Royal Flop?

So, is A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding worth watching? If you're a fan of the first movie and you're looking for a lighthearted, feel-good holiday movie, then you'll probably enjoy it. Just don't expect a cinematic masterpiece. It's a fluffy, predictable, and slightly cheesy movie, but sometimes that's exactly what you need during the holiday season. Think of it as a festive comfort food – not the healthiest option, but definitely satisfying in the moment. This film delivers exactly what it promises: a dose of holiday cheer, a sweet romance, and a glimpse into a fairytale world. It's not trying to be high art, and it succeeds in providing a pleasant and escapist viewing experience.

Where Does It Fit In? The Christmas Movie Landscape

In the vast landscape of Christmas movies, A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding finds itself in a unique position. It's not a timeless classic like It's a Wonderful Life, nor is it a quirky, alternative option like Elf. Instead, it occupies a space somewhere in between, offering a blend of traditional romance and modern sensibilities. Its success lies in its ability to tap into the universal desire for a happy ending, wrapped in the warmth and familiarity of the holiday season. The film's appeal extends beyond its romantic storyline, encompassing themes of family, loyalty, and the importance of staying true to oneself. These elements resonate with viewers of all ages, making it a popular choice for family movie nights.

A Critical Eye: The Film's Legacy

While A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding may not be a critical darling, it has undoubtedly left its mark on the Christmas movie genre. Its success paved the way for a slew of similar films, featuring ordinary people falling in love with royalty. The film's popularity also demonstrates the enduring appeal of fairytale romances and the power of escapism during the holidays. Despite its flaws, A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding has become a guilty pleasure for many viewers, a reminder that sometimes, all we need is a little bit of sparkle and a happily-ever-after to brighten our day. Its influence can be seen in the increasing number of holiday-themed romantic comedies released each year, each hoping to capture the same magic and charm that made A Christmas Prince a phenomenon.

Final Thoughts: Is it worth your time?

Ultimately, the decision to watch A Christmas Prince: The Royal Wedding depends on your personal preferences. If you're a fan of cheesy romances, festive settings, and predictable plots, then you'll likely find it to be an enjoyable viewing experience. However, if you're looking for a thought-provoking, groundbreaking film, then you might want to skip this one. But hey, sometimes it's nice to just turn off your brain and indulge in a little bit of royal fluff, especially during the holidays! So grab your hot cocoa, settle in, and decide for yourself whether this royal wedding is a dream come true or a royal mess. Either way, it's sure to spark some conversation and maybe even a few laughs.