The Royal (2022) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Lavania is a fictional European kingdom depicted in the film. It serves as the setting for Prince Thomas's royal life, contrasting with the modern urban environment of New York City where Izzy works as a hairdresser.

• lavania
• fictional country
• european kingdom
• setting

The movie takes place across two distinct locations: Lavania, a fictional European kingdom featuring opulent royal castles, and New York City, where Izzy runs a hair salon. These contrasting settings emphasize the class divide between the protagonists.

• setting
• locations
• lavania
• new york city
• salon

The story unfolds in contemporary times, set in the present day with modern settings including a bustling salon in NYC and the royal palace in Lavania.

• time period
• contemporary
• modern setting

The primary themes are empathy and the contrast between royalty and reality. Empathy drives Izzy's mission to help the less fortunate, while 'Royalty vs. Reality' explores the disconnect between Prince Thomas's privileged upbringing and the struggles of his kingdom's citizens.

• themes
• empathy
• royalty
• social inequality

'Royalty vs. Reality' explores how Prince Thomas, raised in luxury, initially remains detached from the hardships faced by his subjects. Through Izzy's influence, he confronts his own naivety and learns about the real struggles of people in his kingdom, prompting reflection on leadership responsibilities.

• royalty
• privilege
• leadership
• responsibility

Izzy (Isabella) is a dedicated hairdresser and beloved community figure in New York City. Known for her kindness and strong sense of justice, she becomes instrumental in showing Prince Thomas the realities of his kingdom and inspires activism to support children in need.

• izzy
• isabella
• hairdresser
• character

Prince Thomas is a royal who struggles with the constraints of his privileged life and the expectations placed upon him. Initially detached from his kingdom's realities, he undergoes significant growth through his relationship with Izzy, ultimately taking responsibility for his people.

• prince thomas
• royal
• protagonist
• character

Izzy serves as the catalyst for change, embodying compassion and social responsibility. Her journey involves bridging the gap between the wealthy elite and the disadvantaged, using her empathy to inspire Prince Thomas and create a movement supporting local children in need.

• izzy role
• compassion
• activism
• social responsibility

The film addresses class disparity by contrasting Lavania's lavish castle life with the struggles of its poorer communities. Through Prince Thomas's journey, viewers see how privilege can create distance from real social issues, and how empathy can bridge these divides.

• class disparity
• social inequality
• wealth
• poverty

The New York City salon represents Izzy's community and her identity as a caring, connected individual. It's a vibrant urban space where she fosters close-knit relationships, and it serves as the starting point where she interacts with Prince Thomas before the story expands to explore royal life.

• new york
• salon
• community
• urban culture

The film maintains a light and optimistic tone throughout. While it addresses themes of social inequality, it does so through a hopeful lens focused on reform led by a cheerful protagonist. The overall feel is gentle and pleasant, with conflicts serving as minor obstacles rather than deep tensions.

• tone
• mood
• feel-good
• optimistic

Prince Thomas evolves from a detached, privileged royal unaware of his kingdom's struggles to someone who takes responsibility for his people. This transformation occurs through his relationship with Izzy, who opens his eyes to the realities faced by less fortunate citizens.

• character growth
• transformation
• prince
• development