Daisy Tucker and Mr. NYC is a refreshingly different take on the romance genre. Cayla Brady plays Daisy, a girl from Wyoming who lands a job in New York City - and, in perhaps the most far-fetched plot choice of the year, rides her horse to work. Yes, it's silly, but once Richard Sharrah enters the picture, the real magic begins.
Richard plays Hamilton, a music executive whose life collides with Daisy's after he learns she saved his grandfather. In a twist only this kind of rom-com could pull off, Grandpa insists they get married. From there, sparks fly. The chemistry between Daisy and Hamilton is pitch-perfect - the banter, the gradual romance, and the ending all land beautifully. There are a few bumps along the way with Daisy doubting Hamilton's love.
However, not everything works. Bianca, played by a long-time family friend of Hamilton's in the story, is saddled with the worst makeup I've ever seen in a short film. Her performance didn't quite match the energy of the leads and felt like it pulled the story down in places. Whoever did the makeup here should probably sit the next one out - it was genuinely distracting.
On the flip side, Richard Sharrah delivers a deeply emotional, caring, and loving performance that elevates every scene he's in. I first discovered him a few months ago while watching verticals and following his family life on Instagram, and this role really shows what he can do. Cayla Brady, meanwhile, is an absolute delight - charming, authentic, and a perfect fit for Daisy.
Despite a few cosmetic missteps (literally), this movie delivers a sweet, engaging romance. I'd happily watch a sequel with these two leads. Watch it for Richard and Cayla - they're worth it.
