Simone Ashley Finds Her ‘Rom-Com Dreams’ Come True in Prime Video’s Picture This

Prime Video's Picture This delivers a fresh, British rom-com experience, starring Simone Ashley in a role she's long envisioned. The film, a delightful blend of humor, heart, and cultural richness, marks a significant moment for Ashley, who has always dreamed of starring in a classic rom-com. For the Bridgerton star, this project wasn't just another acting gig; it was a bucket list moment, a chance to bring her own unique perspective to a beloved genre. "When I was growing up, I always wanted to be part of a rom-com- to see a girl that looks like me in those kinds of movies and in those stories," Ashley reveals. This desire for representation fueled her excitement when she first encountered the script.

Picture This tells the story of Pia, a fiercely independent British-Indian artist navigating family expectations, financial struggles, and the complexities of love. Ashley instantly connected with the film's themes of empowerment and representation. "I loved the script," she explains. "I really loved how, you know, this was a movie led by Pia herself. And I love that it was British, [and a] comedy. I just thought it was such a simple storyline, which sometimes, is the most powerful and something you can really sink your teeth into and get creative with."

The film's exploration of family and cultural traditions resonated deeply with Ashley. "I loved that it revolved around family and celebrated Indian culture, as well as finding humor within these kinds of families and the traditions," she says. Beyond the specific cultural context, she found universal themes that would appeal to a broad audience. "There was also a lot about the script that felt universal."

In Picture This, Pia (Ashley) faces mounting pressure to settle down as she struggles to keep her photography studio afloat. The upcoming wedding of her sister, Sonal (Chadha), and the presence of her ex, Charlie (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), add to her anxieties. Meanwhile, her mother (Vee) pushes her to find a partner, revealing a surprising condition: Pia can only access a hidden trove of family jewelry if she becomes engaged.

Directed By Prarthana Mohan and written by Nikita Lalwani, Picture This also stars Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Sindhu Vee, Luke Fetherston, Nikesh Patel, Adil Ray in pivotal roles. A witty and unconventional romantic comedy, the film explores bucking cultural and familial expectations, embracing life's awkward moments, and finding love in unexpected places and is now streaming exclusively on Prime Video in 240 countries and territories worldwide.