India, May 18 -- Watch it for the visuals, performances, and sheer Bollywood-royal fantasy but don't expect narrative brilliance, says ABHI SINGHAL

First Impressions that started from "What the.": The opening scenes of The Royals are intriguing but perplexing. Milind Soman's appearance as a flamboyant Maharaja delivers a "what the." moment that may leave viewers puzzled. However, just as the tone begins to feel offbeat, Nora Fatehi's dramatic and glamorous entry lifts the energy of the series.

Now streaming on Netflix, The Royals attempts to weave together the grandeur of royal India with the fast-paced flair of modern lifestyles. The result is a heady cocktail - often too modern for its own good - yet entertaining in a loud, high-gloss...