Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Let's be real: this is Netflix filler content. A 40% critic score, 5.8 on IMDb, and a dismal 2.6/5 on Letterboxd tells you everything you need to know—this is a forgettable period romance that even costume drama fans found underwhelming.

The premise of teaching a prince to seduce women through manipulation is already questionable from a values perspective, and the execution apparently didn't land either. While it ends with 'unexpected romance' (spoiler: the manipulator falls in love, shocking), the journey there involves schemes and scandals that don't offer much enrichment.

If your teen is into period dramas, point them toward something actually good like Pride & Prejudice or Emma. If they're into romance, there are better options. This is the kind of movie that exists solely to pad out Netflix's catalog, and while it won't corrupt anyone, it also won't entertain or enlighten them either.

The 71% audience score suggests some people enjoyed it as background viewing, but that's a low bar. Save your family's screen time for something better.

Age Fit

Common Sense Media suggests 13+, which makes sense given the seduction themes and romantic content. Honestly though, most teens will find this slow and boring—it's really more for adults who enjoy mediocre period romances while folding laundry.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

55

A period romance with themes of manipulation and seduction as central plot devices. While it ends with 'unexpected romance,' the premise involves teaching someone to manipulate others romantically, which isn't exactly modeling healthy relationship dynamics. The 'scandal' mentioned suggests some drama that may not be entirely wholesome. Tone appears light rather than chaotic, but the emotional health messaging is questionable.

Imaginative

48

Based on an Isak Dinesen story, so there's literary pedigree, but a 2023 period romance about seduction schemes doesn't break new ground. The 40% critic score and 2.6/5 Letterboxd rating suggest it's formulaic and uninspired. No evidence of particularly creative storytelling or visual innovation that would spark curiosity or imagination.

Safe

65

Common Sense Media rates it 13+, suggesting some mature themes but nothing graphic. The title and synopsis focus on 'seduction' which implies romantic/sexual content, though likely period-appropriate and not explicit given the Netflix platform and lack of MPAA rating suggesting R-territory. The 'scandal' element could involve some surprise dramatic moments. No extreme violence or gore expected in a period romance, but the seduction premise means parents should expect romantic manipulation themes.

Enriching

42

With a 40% critic score and 5.8 IMDb rating, this appears to be a mediocre period piece that's neither particularly insightful nor entertaining. The premise of teaching manipulation doesn't offer strong ethical takeaways. While period dramas can provide historical context, there's no indication this does so meaningfully. The 71% audience score suggests some entertainment value, but critics found it lacking, and the low Letterboxd rating (2.6/5) from more discerning viewers indicates it's not particularly memorable or meaningful.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Based on an Isak Dinesen story, so there's literary source material with some depth
Period costume dramas can offer a window into historical settings and manners
The 71% audience score suggests some viewers found it charming enough
Explores how manipulation schemes can backfire, which could spark discussions about authenticity in relationships

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What to Watch For

Central premise revolves around teaching seduction and romantic manipulation—not exactly healthy relationship modeling
The 'scandal' element suggests some dramatic romantic content appropriate for teens but potentially awkward for family viewing
With a 40% critic score and 2.6/5 on Letterboxd, this is objectively not a great movie—your teen will likely find it boring
Period piece pacing may feel slow and dated to modern viewers

Conversation Starters

"The movie is about teaching someone to manipulate people romantically. Why do you think that backfired?"
"What's the difference between genuine charm and manipulation in relationships?"
"Do you think the 'art of seduction' is even a real thing, or is it just about being authentic and kind?"
"Why do you think critics didn't like this movie but regular audiences gave it better ratings?"

Stills