A real-life Willy Wonka saga that occasionally veers into King Lear-by-way-of-Game of Thrones territory, Ren Faire dives into the Texas Renaissance Festival—the country’s largest such event, held each October and November in Todd Mission. Director Lance Oppenheim’s three-part documentary unfolds the story behind George Coulam, known as King George, who created the theme park and town around it.
The Reign of King George
An 86-year-old ruler with an iron fist, King George is on a quest for a successor and also seeks a much younger wife without silicon enhancements. Despite his once-married status, King George now lives alone in his ornate house, reminiscent of rococo decor, and manages his dating profiles with the same sternness he brings to his leadership.
Behind the Gilded Curtain
The docuseries spans the 2021 and 2022 festival seasons, showing King George navigating his domain—both his employees and his myriad dating accounts. It provides an authentic look into his life, complete with awkward moments like when he asks a young date Are those your natural breasts?
over dinner at Olive Garden. Such moments underscore his fixation on youthful, unaltered beauty.
A Tyrannical Monarch
King George’s subjects include Darla Smith, the vendor coordinator promoted to co-general manager who eyes leadership alongside Jeff Baldwin, the longtime general manager and former entertainment director. Baldwin faces internal rivalry against Louie Migliaccio, an ambitious entrepreneur who runs a successful kettle corn booth.
Jockeying for Power
The narrative sets up an intense power struggle between Baldwin and Migliaccio, both vying for King George’s favor. Jeff Baldwin often finds himself siding with King George—even when it means demoting his own wife—to stay in the ruler’s graces.
The Heir Apparent?
Darla Smith emerges as another contender to run the festival, adding tension to King George’s search for a successor. The docuseries highlights how Coulam enjoys pitting these aspirants against each other, reveling in their competition to take over his lifework.
Blending Fantasy with Reality
Director Oppenheim masterfully blends verité material with scripted scenes where characters speak to imaginary figures—such as performers dressed as dragons—mirroring the fantastical essence of the Texas Renaissance Festival. While this mix sometimes creates intriguing dynamics, it sometimes feels non-electrifying.
A Captivating Yet Limited Portrait
The series excels in profiling its complex characters but falls short of capturing the full atmosphere of the festival itself. Despite showcasing booths, games, and costumed visitors enjoying themselves, it doesn’t fully convey why millions flock to this event annually.
A Kingdom Without a King
Ultimately, Ren Faire builds towards King’s attempts to cash out from his creation while grappling with the question: What is a king without his kingdom? He’s nothing.
This introspective journey makes it evident that the festival is all he truly has left.
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