Palm Royale 2024 Tv Mini Series Review

Before Instagram stories and TikTok videos dominated social media, gossip magazines and television offered ordinary people a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and beautiful. While most shy away from crashing the A-list, some are audacious enough to demand a seat at the table — and that brings us to “Palm Royale.”

Adapted from Juliet McDaniel’s novel “Mr. & Mrs. American Pie” by Abe Sylvia, Apple TV+’s new 1960s-set comedy, “Palm Royale,” follows the adventures of bottle-blonde Palm Beach newcomer Maxine Simmons, played to perfection by Kristen Wiig. Determined to carve out a glitzy and glamorous existence for herself, Maxine isn’t afraid to bend the rules a tad. Outrageously wild and uproariously funny, “Palm Royale” suggests that chasing your dreams might lead to unexpected results if you’re bold enough to pursue them.

Set in the early summer of 1969 at Palm Beach’s elite Palm Royale country club, the series introduces us to Maxine, who lacks both an invitation and the funds for the hefty initiation fee. Undeterred, she boldly infiltrates the club she’s long admired. Dressed like a vibrant creamsicle and armed with relentless tenacity, Maxine vaults over the club’s back wall and settles by the pool with her grasshopper cocktail, only to realize she’s unwelcome among the club’s elitist denizens.

Within the club’s social hierarchy reigns Norma Delacore (Carol Burnett), Maxine’s estranged aunt-in-law, who has held sway over Palm Beach for nearly half a century. Challenging Norma’s authority is Evelyn Rollins (an electrifying Allison Janney), eagerly awaiting her wealthy husband’s demise. Also in the mix is socialite Dinah Donahue (Leslie Bibb), who sees Evelyn as an obstacle. Though these women aren’t allies, they unite to ostracize Maxine from their community.

A former pageant queen from Tennessee, married to the simple-minded pilot Douglas (Josh Lucas), Maxine adeptly manipulates misogyny and patriarchal norms to her advantage. Despite her innocence, her desire for a lavish lifestyle propels Maxine forward, even in the face of secrets, blackmail, and unexpected obstacles. Along her journey, she befriends Linda Shaw (Laura Dern), a feminist activist, and Robert (Ricky Martin), an observant waiter with insider knowledge.

This pastel-colored satire is brimming with absurd charity galas, drug-fueled parties, and closets stuffed with skeletons, some of which find their way into the town’s gossip columns. From pawn shops to President Nixon’s televised Vietnam War updates, “Palm Royale” revels in its ludicrousness. However, its 10 episodes suffer from overstuffing, leaving viewers gasping for air by the finale.

The series underscores the intoxicating allure of coveting others’ lives, as seen in social media and influencer culture. Yet, it also highlights the façade of exclusivity, revealing the flaws hidden beneath the surface. Despite its flaws, Maxine’s journey remains captivating, showcasing the thrill of a woman unapologetically pursuing her dreams.

In conclusion, “Palm Royale” offers a delightful escape into a world of audacious ambition and glittering illusions, led by a protagonist whose determination is as infectious as it is endearing.