The much-anticipated London premiere of Prime Video’s romantic comedy Red, White & Royal Blue took place amidst the backdrop of ongoing industry strikes. The event, which was expected to be a glitzy affair, was marked by a subdued atmosphere, with director Matthew López and stars Nicholas Galitzine and Taylor Zakhar Perez absent from the red carpet.

López, acclaimed for his Tony-winning play The Inheritance, stood in solidarity with the striking screenwriters, making it clear that he was on strike as a screenwriter but not as a playwright or director. Inside the BFI Imax theater, he addressed the audience, expressing his support for the absent stars and highlighting the importance of resolving the strike to move forward in the industry.

The absence of Galitzine and Zakhar Perez, both active members of the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), was a notable testament to their commitment to the cause. Despite their missing presence, the premiere was attended by various industry professionals including critics, press, fans, and creatives from the film.

However, the usually bustling press pen remained empty, and the red carpet lacked the usual excitement and glamor. The ongoing industry strikes have cast a shadow over prominent events, raising concerns about the upcoming fall festivals in Venice, Telluride, Toronto, New York, and London. For photographers like Anthony Harvey, who are used to capturing star-studded moments, the experience has been a departure from the norm.

Red, White & Royal Blue narrates a heartwarming tale of romantic friendship between Alex, the son of a U.S. president, and Prince Henry of the U.K. López invested five months in an extensive audition process, seeking the perfect fit for the lead roles. Casting a Latin actor like Zakhar Perez in a prominent role holds particular significance, as it aligns with the film’s focus on diverse representation.

While the strikes have temporarily disrupted the industry’s regular operations, there remains hope for a swift resolution. The entertainment community stands united in its pursuit of fair deals from studios, eager to return to normalcy and celebrate the talents of artists like López, Galitzine, and Zakhar Perez.

As the industry navigates these challenging times, the allure of the red carpet and the vibrant celebration of creativity await their triumphant return. Until then, the film fraternity remains steadfast in its resolve, looking forward to a future where artists and their audiences can once again revel in the magic of cinema.