'Palm Royale' Review: Kristen Wiig and Laura Dern's half-baked series squanders away its wealth of talent

Kristen Wiig, Laura Dern and Carol Burnett are a treat to watch in Apple TV+'s 'Palm Royale'

BY KANIKA SAINI

PUBLISHED MAY 8, 2024

Even Kristen Wiig's layered performance couldn't save the dull narrative of 'Palm Royale' (@appletv+)

PALM BEACH, FLORIDA: 'Palm Royale' streaming on Apple TV+, is a display of excess and luxury set against the backdrop of summers of 1969 in Florida.

The ten-episodic series created by Abe Sylvia introduces Kristen Wiig as Maxine Simmons, a resident of Chattanooga, who arrives in Palm Beach with the sole aim of inheriting the immense wealth of her husband's aunt and making her way into the elite society.

Revolving around her are the strong characters such as Norma Dellacorte (played by the legendary Carol Burnett) who stands as the matriarch figure known for ruling Palm Beach for decades while the ambitious Evelyn Rollins (portrayed with fervor by Allison Janney) schemes for the throne.

Leslie Bibb plays Dinah Donohue, another trophy wife in Palm Beach who is trapped between the want for money and the chase for love.

'Palm Royale' is a visually stunning series with a dull narrative

Kristen Wiig and Leslie Bibb in 'Palm Royale' (@appletv+)

The show's visual opulence spills over every scene, from the lavish resort club to the beachfront mansions and glittering ballroom parties, capturing the insulated world of high society housewives whose social standing is measured by the glossy pages of the Shiny Sheet.

The breathtaking costumes and meticulously styled hairstyles effortlessly transport viewers to a bygone era, enriching the immersive experience of 'Palm Royale'.

Yet, for all its grandeur, 'Palm Royale' falters in its narrative, delivering a muddled experience that struggles to find its footing.

'Palm Royale' doesn't do justice to the ensemble cast

Carol Burnett and Kristen Wiig in 'Palm Royale' (@appletv+)

Kristen Wiig shines as Maxine, bringing glamour and emotional depth to her character. Allison Janney adds weight to her character of Evelyn, despite the shortcomings in the writing.

Ricky Martin is an eye candy in the series and does a fair job of keeping us hooked.

However, the series fails to justify the talent of the A-listers. With Academy Award winner Laura Dern in a recurring role, the missed opportunity to deliver something truly remarkable is regrettable.

At the same time, Carol Burnett's potential hasn't been fully utilized in the series. Despite her captivating performance in every frame she appears in, we are left longing for more of her presence on screen.

The theme of 'Palm Royale' fails to make a mark

Leslie Bibb and Allison Janney in 'Palm Royale' (@appletv+)

'Palm Royale' weaves the themes of wealth, privilege, and ambition throughout its ten-episode arc. Sadly, it teeters between satire and celebration of the elite, leaving viewers uncertain of its intentions and message.

The lack of substance in the series is evident, with the story meandering for much of the season before attempting a late surge of momentum that feels forced.

The series could have at most been concluded in five episodes. However, the dragged-out comedy with episodes that veer away from the central themes, such as the one where Laura Dern's character goes out of frame while an actual whale takes center stage.

Despite boasting A-list talent and aesthetic charm, 'Palm Royale' squanders its potential with a confused narrative. Though it offers moments of entertainment and visual splendor, one may not stick around long enough.

'Palm Royale' is available to stream on Apple TV+.