Actress Kristen Wiig's performance in Apple TV+'s Palm Royale has been described as wonderfully eccentric and subtle, showcasing her comedic talents. The series follows Wiig's character, Maxine Simmons, a former Tennessee pageant contestant aiming to conquer Palm Beach society in the late 1960s.
Throughout the show, Wiig's portrayal of Maxine falls somewhere between conniving and innocent, drawing comparisons to characters like Becky Sharp and Scout. While she manages to bring out laughs in the show's sillier moments, the overall production lacks sharpness and sophistication.
Despite the impeccable cast and vibrant production design reminiscent of Pedro Almodóvar's style, Palm Royale fails to deliver on its promise of satirical wit and humor. Carol Burnett's performance as the scheming aunt Norma stands out as a highlight, showcasing her unforgiving toughness even in a comatose state.
Other notable performances include Allison Janney as Maxine's rival Evelyn, Ricky Martin as the charming pool boy Robert, and Julia Duffy as the unstable widow Mary. The show attempts to connect Maxine's escapades to larger themes of the era, such as Vietnam and Nixon, but falls short in execution.
Laura Dern's portrayal of Linda, a character advocating for progressive politics, adds a fervid energy to the narrative. However, Palm Royale overall is criticized for its lack of depth and comedic impact, failing to engage viewers beyond surface-level entertainment.
The series is likened to inflatable rafts drifting aimlessly, lacking the forward momentum needed to captivate audiences. Despite its potential, Palm Royale struggles to deliver a compelling narrative that resonates with viewers.
For those interested in exploring Kristen Wiig's performance in Palm Royale, the show premieres its first three episodes on Apple TV+ with new episodes releasing weekly through May 8.
