Recently I saw the film Spencer - now showing in cinemas. Although I had already seen the preview trailer, I must admit that I was not too sure what I was going to see. But as one who has always been interested in the Royal Family, I did expect some insights into what I would describe as "the Diana saga". However, this expectation was put aside as I read the opening disclaimer which described what I was about to see as "a fable out of a true tragedy".

What follows is a psychological drama that is an unrelenting focus on the torment of a wronged woman. It essentially depicts three days of Diana's life prior to her decisive move to leave her husband, Charles, and live independently of the Royal Family. Those three days are in the context of the annual Christmas celebrations at the Royal Sandringham Residence, which happens to contain Diana's childhood home as part of its vast estate.

Watching the drama unfold, this viewer of the film could never really be sure whether what I was watching was real or imagined. For some time I felt that I was eavesdropping on some very private moments - in particular those mother/sons conversations, and the cold, mealtime receptions. Furthermore, although the Royal Family is present in the drama, there is no development of their characters, other than portraying them as the villains who had little sympathy for Diana's plight. I would have liked to see more of the family interaction considering this was a family gathering for Christmas.

Acting honours go to Kristen Stewart, and the locations and cinematography were authentic. Lovers of Diana's fashion sense will marvel at the costume designs.

Other than that, there is little I can recommend in Spencer and can only give it a score of 4 out of 10!

Director: Pablo Larraín

Starring: Kristen Stewart, Timothy Spall, Jack Nielen, Freddie Spry

Year released: 2021

Keith's rating: 4/10

Review by Keith Pitt

Last edited: 27/03/2022