Hallmark have done a lot of royal-themed films and the quality of them has really varied. Some being surprisingly good, some watchable if rather average and some really bad. Have watched many Hallmark films with very mixed expectations prior to watching and 2022's 'A Royal Runaway Romance' was one of those initially when hearing that it was another royal themed film. Expectations did increase however when seeing the synopsis and seeing that there was a road trip twist.
2022 was a varied year for Hallmark, which was as has been said more than once not unexpected (as it is the same with previous years too). With some very good films, some very bad films and some that ranged between mediocre and slightly above average. 'A Royal Runaway Romance' is one of the good ones and was close to being one of the very good ones once it got going. Much has been said about the lack of location authenticity and geographical errors, but am going to talk more about what matters to me more. So quality of writing, storytelling and acting for examples. While failing on the authenticity, 'A Royal Runaway Romance' mostly succeeds in most areas.
It is not flawless. Phillippa Northeast does start off stiff and her character does come over as a bit too immature and naive at points. There is some awkwardness early on.
At times too, there is a stock look to the production values, meaning stock footage like.
Most of the time though, it looks quite nice. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous and the photography is mostly slick. The music at least fits and is pleasant enough, though never anything exceptional. Really liked the barn dance song. The script is light hearted and also has a warm heart, did appreciate that it didn't rush the relationship, overdo the antagonism, allow the playfulness to shine and didn't rush the softening.
Furthermore, the story on the whole is very engaging. It is predictable and starts awkwardly, but never takes itself too seriously while never feeling like a parody. Like the script, it is agreeably light hearted and charming while with a warm centre while the characters and relationship soften. The ending is sweet and while not surprising it doesn't feel too pat. The characters were likeable and worth connecting with on the whole, Brant Daugherty's character's development was very striking. Northeast does become much more natural and really matures into the role, so overall it is a charming performance that didn't look that experienced. Daugherty is also charming and easy going, while shining in his character's more vulnerable moments. Their chemistry is witty and touching. The supporting cast are solid.
Concluding, well done. 7/10.
